3 Things To Know Before Receiving Your Dentures
If you have lost one or more teeth due to an injury or underlying dental condition, dentures are a great option for restoring your smile. Even though they are incredibly common, most people are not truly familiar with dentures until they receive them. Without proper understanding, you may feel uncertain about your new smile. Here are a few things to know before you receive and start wearing your dentures.
Initial Discomfort Is Normal
First and foremost, it is important to remember that you may experience some slight discomfort when you first wear your dentures. The discomfort is mostly due to having a new foreign object inside your mouth, but you will feel normal again once you adjust to your dentures.
Of course, actual pain and irritation is not normal. Make sure you and your dentist work together to ensure the dentures fit your mouth properly.
If the dentures move frequently or will not remain in your mouth, they will begin to irritate your gum tissue, resulting in pain and discomfort. Talk to your dentist if you are noticing any movement or serious discomfort after a few days.
Oral Hygiene Is Still Essential
Even though the dentures are replacing your missing teeth, you still need to brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly to care for your oral health.
In addition to caring for your natural teeth and gums, caring for your dentures is also important.
Your dentures should be removed and brushed daily. Use a nonabrasive cleanser and soft-bristled brush to remove food residue and bacteria from your dentures. Soaking the dentures overnight is also recommended for cleaning and stain prevention.
Avoid using hot water and any whitening products that contain bleaching agents. Hot water can warp the dentures, affecting their ability to fit comfortably in your mouth. The bleaching products may remove stains, but they can erode the denture materials, affecting their look, fit, and lifespan.
Avoid DIY Repairs
Over time, basic wear can stress your dentures. You may notice areas are warped and metal brackets or attachments have bent. You may think repairing these issues is simple, but attempting these repairs yourself may do more harm than good.
To protect your smile and your investment in dentures, make sure to consult your dentist or a specialist about the repairs.
Dentures restore your smile to a full, functional, and appealing state. If you are considering dentures, use this guide to prepare for this new, restored smile.
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