What to Expect With Dentures
Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes. Denture wearers should expect diet changes and discomfort at first. These appliances are not as efficient at chewing as natural teeth and can cover the palate, which plays an important role in sensing flavors. This causes many denture wearers to gravitate towards more processed foods that are also naturally higher in fat, salt, and sugar. We recommend denture wearers eat a diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
When wearing dentures for the first time, it is normal to experience some soreness and discomfort. The University of Iowa's College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics states that it is not unusual for dentures to be relined or remade within six to eight weeks after tooth extraction. This will occur as the mouth muscles adjust and get used to the appliance. As people get used to their dentures, pain and discomfort will disappear, and they can resume their normal activities comfortably.
“Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes.”
Seeking Treatment When Problems Arise
It is crucial to seek treatment quickly when problems with dentures arise. Common denture problems include gum and mouth irritation, loose dentures, and mouth infections. Simply ensuring that dentures fit correctly can increase comfort and reduce soreness.
If a denture problem is present, contact our team quickly. The dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced. Denture wearers who do not seek treatment for ill-fitting dentures can develop mouth infections such as cheilitis and stomatitis. Seeking medical treatment when the problem first arises can prevent such complications from arising.
“It is crucial to seek treatment quickly when problems with dentures arise.”
Taking Care of Dentures While Traveling
People can still have a great time while traveling with dentures. However, it is important to maintain a regular cleaning routine. Denture wearers should pack a small case with denture care items, such as a covered storage container.
Cleanser creams, gels, and pastes can travel as long as they meet airline size requirements for liquids. It is also important to maintain proper denture care while traveling. People should remove and rinse their dentures after every meal, brush daily, and soak them overnight.
“It is crucial to seek treatment quickly when problems with dentures arise.”
Precautions With Food
When wearing new dentures, it is a good idea to eat soft foods and take small bites. Chew slowly and try to use both sides of the mouth so the jaw muscles can get a firm hold. Alternatively, some people decide to use denture adhesive for extra stability. We recommend avoiding hard, hot, tough, or sticky foods to minimize potential teeth damage.
Hot foods can cause problems initially because the lower temperature sensitivity increases the risk of accidental burns. Once patients get used to the difference, they can start introducing hot foods to their diet again. Avoid foods like hard vegetables, seeds, and nuts that can damage dentures and refrain from chewing gum, peanut butter, and other sticky foods that make it more difficult to clean dentures.
“When wearing new dentures, it is a good idea to eat soft foods and take small bites.”
Checking for Oropharyngeal Cancer
Dentures do not cause oropharyngeal cancer, but dentures that do not fit well or poor oral care while wearing them can. The irritation, inflammation, and infection associated with such issues have been associated with oral cancer. According to one study, while ill-fitting dentures are a risk factor for oral cancer development, there is no link between denture use duration and cancer development.
To limit the risk of oral cancer, people should have their dentures checked. Properly fitting dentures reduce the risk of infection or inflammation. All denture wearers should also take their dentures out every night and clean them well.
“Dentures do not cause oropharyngeal cancer, but dentures that do not fit well or poor oral care while wearing them can.”
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