We get a lot of questions about dentures and to make things easy for you we have put the 10 most frequently asked questions below.
Q. How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?
Typically, an extraction is possible 6-8 weeks after an extraction. This allows sufficient time for the mouth to heal. Obviously, your dentist in Balwyn will re-examine to ensure enough time has passed prior to fitting the dentures.
Q. What will dentures feel like?
New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation and soreness initially. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. These problems should diminish with wear.
Q. Can my dentures become stained?
Just like real teeth, dentures can become stained by tea, coffee, and red wine if you drink these things frequently. Smoking can also lead to denture staining. To preserve your set of pearly white dentures for as long as possible, minimize your consumption of staining drinks and, if you’re a smoker, consider quitting. Tobacco use can also contribute to gum disease and mouth cancer, so there will be lots of benefits to your oral health when you wave goodbye to cigarettes.
Q. My dentures are a little uncomfortable, is that normal?
It’s not normal to put up with pain from dentures, or to have them move around in your mouth rather than staying securely in place. Unfortunately, many people think a little discomfort is a normal aspect of wearing dentures, but there’s no need to put up with it. If, for example, you have very sensitive gums, you can choose dentures with soft linings to prevent irritation. After your new denture is fitted, you should expect to visit your dentist several times over several weeks for small modifications to be made to your new denture to ensure it fits you comfortably.
Q. Is it OK to sleep in dentures?
Yes, you can wear your dentures at night but it is preferred that they be removed. You should remove your dentures at night and this will give your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of the denture during the day.
Q. Can I repair my own dentures?
There are lots of over-the-counter denture repair kits on the market, but ultimately they often only cause additional damage. Once your dentures have become damaged, they will begin to weaken and will only deteriorate further, making professional repairs even more difficult.
Q. Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Be cautious with hot food/drink or hard sharp-edged bones or shells.
Q. Will dentures change how I speak?
Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out aloud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures “click” while you’re talking, speak slowly. You may find that you dentures occasionally slip out slightly when you cough, laugh or smile. Reposition them by biting down and swallowing. Soon you will be able to cope very well with your new dentures.
Q. When should I get new dentures?
It is advisable to get a new set of dentures every 5-7 years to keep up with the changes in the mouth and to ward off any signs of deterioration and wear to the dentures. However, a regular 6 monthly check up with your dentist in Balwyn is advisable to avoid any unforeseen problems and to check the underlying tissues supporting the denture for signs of infection or sore spots.
Q. How do I take care of my dentures?
Dentures are very delicate and may break if dropped even only a few inches. Stand over a folded towel or basin of water when handling dentures for cleaning. Like natural teeth, dentures must be brushed daily to remove food deposits and plaque. A tooth/ denture brush with soft bristles can be used, as hard-bristles brushes can damage the dentures. Some denture wearers use hand soap and mild dishwashing liquid to clean their dentures. More advanced denture creams and tables are widely available. Avoid using other household product cleaners, which may be too abrasive or even toxic.
If you have any specific question about dentures please call our friendly team at Beautiful Smile in Balwyn on (03) 9859 3533
