Some soreness is normal when you first receive your dentures. The good news is there is no need to keep suffering — there are several techniques you can use to reduce discomfort.
Eat Soft Foods
At the beginning, stick to a diet of soft foods and avoid anything sticky. This will help you learn to eat with your dentures, free from discomfort. Try to eat small bites, chewing on both sides of your mouth and limiting the use of your front teeth.
Clean Your Dentures Daily
Removing your dentures gives your gums a chance to rest. Most often, dentists recommend leaving dentures out during the night and keeping them in a denture solution. This is also a good opportunity to remove any bacteria they have accumulated.
Start with an Adhesive
If you have never used dentures before, your dentist may recommend an adhesive. This will ensure your dentures stay in place while the muscles in your mouth strengthen, protecting you from bone loss and damage to the jaw. Adhesives tend to be only a temporary solution. They often contain zinc, which can lead to health problems if you continue to use them long term.
Visit Your Dentist
After you receive your dentures, you will need to have several follow up appointments with your dentist. This will ensure that your dentures continue to fit properly. Your dentist will determine the cause of any discomfort and, when necessary, reline or rebase the dentures. Relining involves applying a new surface to where your dentures make contact with your gums. Rebasing is less common and involves making a new base for dentures.
Most of the time, you will become used to dentures and they will start to feel comfortable. However, if all efforts fail, your dentist may recommend overdentures to anchor dentures in place or even dental implants Mississauga as an alternative.
