Partial Dentures in Dandenong

Timeframe for Adjustment

Most people become comfortable wearing their dentures after a couple of weeks, though mastering control may take longer depending on various factors. During the first week, expect some soreness and rubbing, which might lead to red gums or small ulcers. Your dentist will likely schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your progress.

If you’re experiencing significant discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist sooner. Wearing the dentures before your appointment can help highlight areas that need adjustment.

If soreness and ulcers develop, it’s best to leave the dentures out as much as possible to allow your gums to heal. Warm saltwater rinses or a chlorhexidine mouthwash can aid in recovery. Once comfortable, wear the dentures as much as possible, and if necessary, return to the dentist for further adjustments. This is a common part of the process.

When to Wear Them

Once your partial dentures are comfortable, wear them as much as possible. The more you wear them, the more natural they’ll feel, becoming an integral part of your mouth.

DIY Adjustments – A Warning

Avoid making adjustments to your dentures at home. Attempting to do so can ruin the fit, as they’ve been precisely crafted for your mouth. If your denture breaks, see a dentist rather than using super glue, which can complicate repairs. Also, avoid trying to tighten metal clasps yourself, as this could cause them to snap or over-tighten, making the denture difficult to remove. Leave these tasks to the professionals.

Eating with Dentures

Eating with new dentures requires practice. Start with softer foods, cutting them into small pieces and chewing slowly to build the necessary control. Initially, avoid sticky or hard foods like toffees, steak, chocolate, nuts, and raw carrots. As you gain confidence, you can gradually reintroduce a wider variety of foods to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. The more teeth your denture replaces, the slower you should go in adjusting your diet.

How to Clean Partial Dentures

Proper cleaning of your partial dentures is crucial for maintaining both your oral health and the longevity of the dentures. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Daily Cleaning Routine

• Rinse After Eating: Remove your dentures after meals and rinse them under running water to wash away any food particles. This helps prevent staining and buildup.
• Brush Thoroughly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush to clean your dentures daily. Brush all surfaces gently to avoid damaging them, paying particular attention to any metal clasps. Use a non-abrasive denture cleanser instead of regular toothpaste, which can be too harsh.
• Clean Your Mouth: After removing your dentures, clean your natural teeth, tongue, gums, and palate with a soft toothbrush or gauze to remove plaque and stimulate circulation.

Soak Overnight

• Use a Denture Soak Solution: Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution or plain water. This helps keep them moist, which is necessary to maintain their shape, and the cleaning solution kills bacteria and removes stains.
• Avoid Hot Water: Never soak your dentures in hot water, as it can warp the material.

Rinse Before Wearing

• Rinse Thoroughly: Before putting your dentures back in your mouth, rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any residual cleaning solution, which can be harmful if ingested.

4. Handle with Care

• Avoid Dropping: When cleaning your dentures, do so over a sink filled with water or a towel to cushion them in case they slip from your hands.
• Inspect Regularly: Check your dentures regularly for any signs of damage, like cracks or loose parts. If you notice any issues, visit your dentist for repairs.

Avoid Certain Products

• Steer Clear of Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using bleach or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage your dentures.
• Skip Whitening Toothpaste: Whitening toothpaste is too abrasive for dentures and can lead to scratches.
• No DIY Repairs: Do not attempt to repair or adjust your dentures yourself, as this can lead to more damage.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

• Visit Your Dentist: Regular check-ups are important to ensure your dentures fit properly and to have them professionally cleaned. Your dentist can also check the health of your gums and any remaining natural teeth.

By following these steps, you can keep your partial dentures clean, comfortable, and in good condition for years to come.