After Partial and Complete Dentures

Once you recieve your new custom denture, it may take some time to get used to it. It is normal to have some irritation on your gums as you are getting used to it.  Your prosthodontist will make adjustments as needed to make it more comfortable, which may take several follow-up appointments.  Give yourself some time to get used to speaking with your new dentures.  Reading a newspaper or book aloud is a good trick to train you tongue and muscles to the new contour of your denture. Always rinse it under water before placing it in your mouth.  Use zinc-free denture adhesives only if necessary and as prescribed by your prosthodontist.  If you want even more stability with your dentures, ask your prosthodontist about implants used to anchor the denture.

Start with soft foods until you become more acclimated to your new teeth. It is normal to accidentally pinch you cheek or tongue during this process.  When chewing, try to divide the food between both sides of your back teeth. This will help stabilize your denture(s).  Diminished taste is normal.  Biting into things like apples and sandwiches will be a challenge.  It will be easier to cut these up and place them on your back teeth.

Keeping your denture clean is key to it’s success, to the health of your gums and to prevent bad breathe.  Throughout the day, food particles may creep underneath your denture.  Rinse your mouth and dentures with water after to avoid creating an irritation on your gums.  Before bed, it is very important to take your dentures out to give your gums some relief.  Brush your tongue, roof of mouth, any remaining natural teeth and implants.  Then over a water-filled or towel-lined sink, carefully brush your denture everywhere with a mild soap or non-abrsive toothpaste. Keep your dentures hydrated in a glass of water to prevent the denture warping.  You may use a commercially available denture cleanser tablet in the water for additional freshness. DO NOT soak your dentures in bleach or hot water.

It is very critical that we still see you every 6-12 months to check the fit of your dentures, as well as examine gums and mouth.  If implants help anchor your dentures, these attachments often need replacement.  Your prosthodontist will evaluate those at this time.  If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call us at New York Office Phone Number 212-986-4830.