When you first start wearing dentures, you’re in for a completely new experience. Though dentures restore oral functionality and confidence, wearers can experience discomfort during the adjustment period. Fortunately, you can restore your comfort with these strategies for dealing with denture pain. Read on to learn some easy ways to make the change.
Keep Your Dentures Clean
Cleaning your dentures does more than enhance the appearance of your teeth. It also protects your gums from unnecessary irritation. Plaque, leftover food particles, and bacteria accumulate throughout the day and have the potential to cause unpleasant rubbing, pressure sores, or bad breath.
However, cleaning your dentures involves more than just rinsing them. A proper cleaning routine with products designed for dentures helps you maintain proper hygiene while preventing buildup. Use a nonabrasive, denture-specific cleanser to remove food debris and bacteria. Do not use toothpaste to brush your dentures, as it’s abrasive and will damage the outside of the denture.
In addition, don’t forget to brush the rest of your teeth and your gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This good habit stimulates blood flow, prevents harmful buildup, and helps maintain healthy tissue. Make cleaning a priority to minimize obstacles on your way to a pain-free smile.
Make the Transition With Soft Foods
Although you may want to eat all your favorite foods after you get your new dentures, it’s better to be careful during the adjustment period. This phase is all about finding balance while protecting your gums from increased pressure or unnecessary strain.
Meals that require minimal chewing allow you to work with your dentures without putting excess force on the tender areas in your mouth. Smooth soups, yogurt, bananas, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and fish are all excellent choices for this stage. They nourish the body while reducing pressure on the gumline so you can enjoy a more comfortable dining experience.
Chewing evenly also enhances stability, especially when learning to use dentures efficiently. Distributing pressure across both sides of the mouth minimizes the strain placed on any one area and protects the gums from soreness. Smaller bites aid this process, making it easier to manage meals without discomfort.
Over time, you will be able to transition to firmer food textures. Unfortunately, you will never regain the same chewing capacity as you had with your natural teeth. However, being patient and making thoughtful dietary choices will accelerate your journey to comfortable eating. This strategy will ultimately allow you to enjoy a wider variety of meals again.
Soothe Your Gums With a Saltwater Rinse
You can provide relief to irritated areas in your mouth with the help of a simple saltwater rinse. Swishing with warm salt water can reduce swelling and cleanse minor abrasions, creating a healthier oral environment. Salt can even eliminate bacteria in your mouth that often contributes to soreness or discomfort. This process is particularly beneficial after meals to clean the gums and reduce lingering irritants.
Crafting a saltwater rinse is straightforward, requiring you to pour a half teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Swirling the mixture gently in your mouth for about 30 seconds allows the salt to work on your tender spots.
Use Dental Adhesives for Stability
Another strategy for dealing with denture pain is using dental adhesives. Dentures that shift can cause increased friction in your mouth, leading to sore spots. Dental adhesives provide the extra support many new wearers require during their transition.
Adhesive products glue your dentures into place, minimizing unintended movement throughout the day. This stability reduces unnecessary rubbing and enhances your confidence during activities like speaking and eating. An adhesive also creates a barrier that reduces irritation caused by hard edges or pressure points. Choose a high-quality adhesive that matches your specific needs.
Proper application also matters. Disperse the adhesive evenly before placing your dentures in your mouth for uniform stability. The added security from dental adhesives provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on engaging with your day fully and comfortably. However, make sure you have your dentist’s approval before using an adhesive.
Drink Plenty of Water
If you suffer from dry mouth, dentures may be uncomfortable due to the rubbing on your tissue. Consuming plenty of water can keep your tissue from drying out and reduce the amount your denture rubs. Drinking water also rinses out bacteria and food particles that build up throughout the day. By drinking the right amount of water, you will help your mouth stay hydrated and healthy.
Give Your Gums a Break at Night
Removing dentures at bedtime is critical for oral health and gum relief. Extended wear places continuous pressure on the gums, leading to increased sensitivity. Additionally, wearing your dentures for too long puts you at increased risk of developing an oral fungal infection called papillary hyperplasia. Allowing this break offers your gums some much-needed recovery time. Storing your dentures in water during this rest period keeps them in excellent condition.
Make Regular Visits to Your Dentist
If you still experience denture discomfort after trying each of these strategies, it may be time to visit your dentist. The pain you experience may be due to an improper alignment or fit. Your dentist should be able to make structural adjustments that can reduce persistent irritation or sore spots. Further, your dentist can help you with other challenges that interfere with your ability to adapt to your dentures, from minor corrections to custom recommendations tailored uniquely to your mouth.
Transitioning to dentures involves adapting to a new normal for your oral health and smile. Though you may feel discomfort in the beginning, these tips can make the adjustment process easier and more bearable. If you need new dentures or dental implant services, contact Pinnacle Dental Associates today. With our help, you can restore your smile and enhance your well-being.