d in Are you looking for immediate denture instructions? Stay on this page, and you’ll learn all you need to know.
When patients request immediate dentures, it’s usually because they’re facing a full mouth extraction and don’t wish to be left without any teeth while they wait for their mouth and gums to heal.
Immediate dentures protect the surgical site and allow for immediate function. However, you need to know a few essential things about the care of your dentures and mouth at various stages of the healing period. So, here goes.
Immediate denture instructions – day of insertion
Once the dentist has inserted your dentures, it’s vital to rest for the remainder of the day, as excessive activity could exacerbate swelling and bleeding. Do not be tempted to remove the denture, as any swelling could make it difficult to get it back in.
Any swelling can be minimised with an ice pack, and taking over-the-counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen will help ease pain and discomfort.
Immediate denture instructions – after the first 24 hours
On the day after the extraction, feel free to remove your immediate dentures. Wash your hands first and remove the denture gently over a basin filled with water to prevent any damage should you accidentally drop it.
Immediate dentures should be rinsed carefully under cold water and gently scrubbed inside and out using only a denture brush and cold water. Do not use denture cleaner, soap or toothpaste.
Then place the denture to one side on the counter and rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of salt water dissolved in warm water to guard against infection. Clean any remaining natural teeth as you would normally and insert the denture back into your mouth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Repeat the process for the next three days, keeping the denture in your mouth each night or until the surgical sites have healed.
Day 4
On the fourth day following extraction, it’s time to take your denture out before bed. Rinse and brush it as mentioned above, and then leave it to soak in a glass of cold water while you sleep. Rinse your mouth once more with salt water. In the morning, rinse the denture before placing it back in your mouth. Continue rinsing your mouth with warm salt water for 7-10 days.
Follow the dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions and take any prescribed medication as directed.
You will need to switch to soft food or a liquid diet for the first few days after surgery. We recommend eating eggs, soup, pasta, smoothies, yoghurts and bananas. You can gradually introduce solid foods as the week progresses.
During the initial healing period, avoid hard foods like carrots, nuts and pretzels and chewy foods like dried fruit and bagels. If necessary, take a nutritional supplement as being in good overall health speeds up the healing process.
Regular denture care
The bone and gums will shrink as healing occurs, and your dentures may loosen. As a result, they will likely need regular adjustments and periodic relining to allow for mouth changes during healing. Immediate dentures may have to be worn for 4-6 months until your permanent dentures are ready.
So, there you have it. Immediate denture instructions while you wait for your permanent dentures to arrive.
Want to know more about immediate dentures?
If you need further information about dentures, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced dentists in Burwood. We provide affordable, high-quality, well-fitting dentures to restore your smile and confidence. Why not schedule an appointment if you’re about to lose your teeth or require a new denture.
References
St John Ambulance: How to use a Cold Compress or Ice Pack
https://www.sja.org.uk/get-advice/first-aid-advice/how-to/how-to-use-a-cold-compress/
Healthline.com – How do salt water rinses help your oral health?
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/salt-water-rinse#when-to-use