Dentures Post Op
Aftercare for Getting Dentures
Once getting dentures, some patients find that it takes some getting used to for the first couple of days. However, as long as patients follow the recommendations of their Doctor, they will feel better than before with a brand new smile. Often dentures are placed immediately following some extractions, so patients should be sure to follow instructions in order to heal promptly and properly.
For the first 24 hours, the denture should remain in place unless there is significant soreness or bleeding. The denture functions as a bandage to help clot the blood and begin the healing process, so it is very important for patients to keep the denture in place, even at night while sleeping.
After the first 24 hours, or once instructed by the Doctor, patients should begin rinsing with salt water (½ tsp in 8 oz of water). As the salt rinse cleanses the gums, patients should brush the denture gently with a denture cleanser. Other than these two steps, patients should keep their dentures in as much as possible to help the healing process.
In order to protect the blood clots that will form, patients should not spit, bend over excessively, drink through a straw or rinse for the first 24 hours. Additionally, patients should avoid strenuous activity and smoking for the first 48 hours. Moreover, it is helpful for patients to sleep in a more upright position to reduce blood flow to the mouth.
Adjusting to Your New Denture
Getting a denture is noticeably different than simply getting one or two teeth extracted. Overall, having many teeth extracted at once for a denture will result in a more tangible change in gum structure and bite. Because of this, dentures will need to be relined a few times throughout the first few months of healing. As the gums heal, the shape and height of them will change, and bone density will also decrease. This is perfectly natural for the first several months, and all initial relines for dentures will be covered in the cost of the original denture payment.
Similarly to getting a single tooth extracted, there are some Do’s and Don’ts that patients should follow when they get their dentures:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Apply ice pack to outside of mouth for the first day | Do not smoke |
| Bite down firmly on gauze when necessary to stop bleeding; change gauze often |
Do not drink from a straw for 3-4 days after extractions |
| Elevate head with 2-3 pillows when lying down for the first 48 hours; this will help decrease swelling and bleeding | Do not swish liquid, rinse, or spit too vigorously, as the blood clot may be loosened |
| Eat soft foods or liquid diet for the first 48 hours |
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking prescribed pain medication |
| Rinse mouth with salt water (½ tsp of salt in 8 oz of water); Let this soak in mouth for 2-3 minutes | Do not participate in physical activity for the first 2-3 days |
| Take pain relievers and other prescribed medications as directed | Do not take pain medication on an empty stomach |
| Start alternating the prescription medication with an NSAID as directed, which will help soreness |
Do not drink any carbonated or alcoholic drinks for the first 48 hours |
Book Your Appointment Today!
Hammond Dental is an expert in providing general dental procedures and restorations for the entire family. Our team of expert dentists and technicians are here to inform you every step of the way. Feel safe knowing you’re making the best decision for you and your family’s teeth when you choose Hammond Dental. Give us a call or message us on Facebook to book an appointment.
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