If you’ve recently gotten full dentures or are considering getting them, congratulations on taking a step towards improving your oral health and smile! Dentures can greatly enhance your quality of life by restoring functionality to your mouth and boosting self-confidence.
However, like any dental procedure, there is post-operative care that needs to be followed to ensure the best results and comfort for the wearer. At our clinic, we have compiled easy-to-follow instructions for properly caring for your full dentures after surgery.
At Illume Dental of McKinney, we understand the importance of maintaining oral health and ensuring comfort after receiving full dentures. We have prepared comprehensive post-operative instructions and aftercare guidelines to help you adjust to your new dentures and maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Immediate Care After Denture Placement
After your dentures have been placed, it’s essential to follow these instructions for the first 24 hours:
- Leave your dentures in place for at least 24 hours after surgery. This is crucial as it allows time for proper healing and reduces bleeding.
- Avoid eating solid or hot foods during this initial period.
- For the initial few days, it is recommended to follow a soft or liquid diet. When resting, it is advised to keep your head raised to minimize swelling and aid in the healing process.
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater every two hours. This will help keep your mouth clean and prevent infection.
- Use ice packs on the outside of your face near the surgery site to reduce pain, swelling, and bruising.
- Do not use denture adhesive or dental creams on your new dentures until your dentist approves it. This is typically after 24 hours.
- If you experience excessive bleeding, contact our clinic immediately.
Adapting to Your New Dentures
It’s normal to feel some discomfort and difficulty adjusting to your new dentures in the first few weeks. Here are some helpful tips to make the transition smoother:
- Practice speaking with your new dentures by reading aloud or singing along to your favorite songs. This will help you get used to the feel of them in your mouth and improve speech.
- Start with soft foods and gradually incorporate harder ones as you become more comfortable chewing.
- Use a denture adhesive if necessary, but be sure to follow the instructions carefully. An excessive amount of adhesive can cause your dentures to become loose and may irritate your gums.
- If you experience any sore spots or discomfort, book an appointment with our clinic for an adjustment.
Proper Care and Maintenance
To ensure your new dentures last as long as possible, it’s essential to take proper care of them. Here are some tips to help you maintain your dentures:
- It is recommended to brush dentures daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or denture cleaner. Dentures should be taken out before going to bed and soaked in water or a denture cleaning solution to keep them moist.
- Avoid using hot water on your dentures, as it can cause them to warp.
- Be gentle when handling your dentures to prevent damage. Hold them over a soft towel or basin of water in case they slip out of your hands.
- Make sure to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to guarantee that your dentures fit correctly and are in good shape.
Post-op Instructions
After any surgical procedure, it’s crucial to follow post-operative instructions to help you recover faster and avoid complications. Here are some specific instructions for after getting full dentures:
- Avoid playing with your dentures with your tongue or biting on them excessively as this can cause sore spots.
- Don’t use toothpicks, sharp objects, or abrasive cleaners on your dentures as they can damage the material.
- If you notice any chips, cracks, or broken pieces on your dentures, do not attempt to repair them yourself. Bring them to our clinic for professional repairs.
- If you experience any excessive bleeding or swelling after getting your dentures, contact us immediately.
Taking care of your dentures is crucial for maintaining a healthy mouth and enjoying a functional smile. If you have any questions or concerns about caring for your dentures, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance. We are committed to helping you achieve a beautiful and long-lasting smile! So, follow these instructions carefully and enjoy the benefits of your full dentures!