Dentures/Partials

"THE WORLD IS BRIGHTER WHEN YOU SMILE"

New dentures always require a period of adjustment. First-time denture patients may require several weeks to get used to their new appliance. Speech may be altered, and may require adaption of the tongue and lips.

For the first few days, you should wear your dentures for as long as possible, and chew soft food in small bites. Remember, dentures do not have the same chewing efficiency as natural teeth and may affect the taste of food. If your bite feels uneven after several days, we can adjust the way your teeth contact at follow-up visits.

It is not unusual for sore spots to develop in isolated areas of the mouth. These areas can be relieved easily at follow-up appointments. If a severe sore spot develops which prevents wearing the denture and an appointment is made for adjustment, please wear the denture prior to the appointment. This will greatly aid in locating the exact location of the area, and make adjustments significantly easier and more predictable.

Do NOT wear your dentures/partials to bed. It is important to allow your gum tissues and jaw bones to rest in order to prevent further tissue irritation, infection, and future bone shrinkage.

Overtime, or with weight loss or gain, the supporting gum tissues and bone may change shape and size. Periodic relines of your dentures may be necessary to ensure a retentive fit. Denture teeth may wear or chip over time. For this reason, an annual check of your tissues and dentures is recommended.

Proper cleaning of your denture is important to prevent stains and bacteria from accumulating on your appliance. Since cleaning procedures differ for various types of appliances, please follow the directions given to you at your insertion appointment.

Caring for Your Dentures or Partial

  • Your dentist will recommend a denture cleaner. Look for denture cleaners with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. ​Do not use toothpaste since it can be too harsh for cleaning your appliance.
  • When cleaning your appliance it is a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water just in case you accidentally drop the denture.
  • It's best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures because it has bristles that are arranged to fit the shape of the appliance. A regular, soft-bristles toothbrush is also acceptable.
  • Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, which can damage the appliance.
  • Clean your appliance by thoroughly rinsing off loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply the cleaner. Brush all the surfaces gently to avoid damaging the plastic or bending the attachments.
  • A denture or partial could lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist. At night, the denture should be placed in soaking solution or water. Your dentist can recommend the proper method for keeping your denture in good shape.
  • Don't chew, swallow, or gargle with denture cleaner.
  • Always thoroughly rinse the denture before placing it in your mouth.