Denture Pain: Tips for Comfortable Wear and Pain Management
Dentures are a standard solution for individuals who have lost their natural teeth due to age, decay, or injury.
While they restore the ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently, dentures can sometimes cause pain and discomfort, particularly in the early stages of adjusting.
If you’re experiencing denture pain, you’re not alone. Understanding the causes and learning effective management strategies can significantly improve your comfort and overall satisfaction with your dentures.
Understanding Denture Pain
Denture pain can arise from various factors, including:
- Initial Adjustment: When you first start wearing dentures, your mouth requires time to adjust to the new equipment. This adjustment period can cause sore spots or general discomfort as your gums and oral tissues get used to the pressure and movement of the dentures.
- Poor Fit: Ill-fitting dentures can rub against your gums, causing friction and soreness. Over time, this friction can lead to painful ulcers or blisters if not addressed promptly.
- Bone Resorption: After tooth loss, the underlying bone structure in your jaw gradually changes (resorbs). As a result of this natural process, your dentures may eventually fit differently, which could be uncomfortable or require changes.
- Dental Problems: Oral infections, gum disease, or damaged natural teeth can exacerbate denture pain.
Tips for Managing Denture Pain
Managing denture pain involves a combination of preventive measures and targeted treatments to alleviate discomfort.
Here are some practical tips:
Proper Denture Care
It’s essential to practise good dental hygiene to avoid issues and discomfort:
- Cleanliness: Clean your dentures daily using a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria.
- Oral Hygiene: Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft brush every morning before inserting your dentures to stimulate circulation and remove debris.
Ensure Proper Fit
A well-fitted denture is essential for comfort and functionality:
- Regular Check-ups: Visit your Campbelltown dentist regularly for adjustments and evaluations to ensure your dentures fit properly and comfortably.
- Avoid DIY Adjustments: Resist the urge to adjust your dentures, which can lead to further complications and discomfort.
Manage Sore Spots
During the initial adjustment period, it’s common to develop sore spots:
- Saltwater Rinse: Use warm saltwater to rinse your mouth to relieve pain and encourage healing.
- Denture Adhesives: Consider using denture adhesives sparingly to improve the fit and reduce irritation.
Use Pain Relief Techniques
To alleviate discomfort, try these methods:
- Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: Use pain relievers as directed to manage mild to moderate denture pain.
- Topical Anaesthetics: Apply a small amount of oral numbing gel to sore spots for temporary relief.
Eat Soft Foods Initially
When you first get your dentures or after adjustments, stick to soft foods to avoid unnecessary strain on your gums:
- Soft Diet: Opt for mashed potatoes, yoghurt, and cooked vegetables until you feel more comfortable chewing with your dentures.
Practise Good Oral Habits
Maintaining healthy habits can prevent complications and promote comfort:
- Remove Dentures at Night: Take your dentures out overnight to give your gums a chance to rest and recover.
- Stay Hydrated: Water is the best liquid to moisturise your gums and mouth throughout the day.
Follow Up with Your Dentist
If you experience persistent or severe denture pain, consult your dentist promptly:
- Professional Evaluation: Your dentist can identify underlying issues, such as an ill-fitting denture or oral health problems, and recommend appropriate treatment.
Experiencing denture pain is a common challenge for many individuals adjusting to new dentures or facing changes in their oral health.
By understanding the causes of denture pain and implementing these tips for comfortable wear and pain management, you can enhance your comfort and overall satisfaction with your dentures.
Recall that keeping dentures healthy and long-lasting requires routine dental check-ups and excellent oral hygiene habits.
With patience and careful care, you can benefit from a confident smile and enhanced dental function for years to come.
Denture Management in Campbelltown
Don’t let denture pain hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Start implementing these tips for comfortable wear and effective pain management today.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, schedule an appointment with your dentist to get personalised care and solutions tailored to your needs.
At Marketfair Dental Care, we prioritise treating our patients with the same care and attention we would give our families.
Contact (02) 4620 0800 or book an appointment online.
Visit us at Marketfair Campbelltown Shop 21B, 4 Tindall St in Campbelltown.