Raleigh Dentures: What To Expect During The Denture Recovery Process
If you’re considering getting traditional dentures in Raleigh at Creedmoor Road General Dentistry, you may have a few questions about recovery. Dr. Allen has been helping patients restore their smiles with dentures for many years and understands that some patients might be hesitant about this solution. Let’s review the denture recovery process so you won’t have any surprises after your full teeth replacement!
The Recovery Timeline
The first few days after getting your dentures are the most important. Your mouth will be sore as it adjusts to your new set of teeth, but it’s vital that you do not remove your dentures. We recommend wearing your dentures for the first 24 to 48 hours.
You may need to have teeth extracted to fit the dentures, which can cause some additional sensitivity. If so, you will need all the rest you can get, so we recommend not returning to work or resuming your daily routine for a few days. The more you rest, the more your body can focus on healing.
After you’re fully recovered, you will want to wear your dentures during the day and take them out at night.
Managing Pain
For most people, Dr. Allen will recommend taking an over-the-counter medication like Motrin or Tylenol, along with any antibiotics we prescribe. A warm saltwater rinse will also help alleviate any swelling. You can also place a cold compress on your cheek to help with additional discomfort, if necessary.
Call our office if you notice sore areas or rubbing. We may need to adjust the fit of your dentures as the gums adapt to them.
Foods to Eat
We recommend our patients eat soft foods for several weeks after a full teeth replacement. Your gums will take some time to heal, and firm foods can irritate the tissues at first.
After getting your dentures, eat softer foods such as:
• Oatmeal
• Applesauce
• Yogurt
• Soups and soft stews
• Fruit and vegetable smoothies
• Scrambled eggs
Cleaning Your Dentures
Caring for your dentures is not that different from caring for other teeth. You’ll want to brush your new prosthetics at least twice a day to get rid of any debris and to keep them feeling fresh.
But the big difference is the products you’ll use to clean your dentures. First, you’ll remove your dentures and soak them in a non-abrasive denture cleaner. It’s important not to use toothpaste or something like baking soda. Brush and rinse them well.
Soak your dentures overnight instead of wearing them to bed. Our Raleigh dentist can advise you on which product to use.
Have More Questions About Denture Recovery?
Whether you have questions about the healing process or what life will be like with dentures, the team at Creedmoor Road General Dentistry is here to help. Call us today to schedule a time to speak with Dr. Allen!