Dentist in Wichita, KS explains remedies for pain from wearing dentures

Dentures are one of the most common tooth replacement options for patients who are missing several teeth in their mouth. Dentures can give patients a brand new smile that is both beautiful and functional. However, the process of properly fitting and adjusting to dentures does take some time, similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes. During this adjustment period, patients may experience some pain or gum sensitivity. Here, Dr. David Koepsel of East Wichita Dentist in Wichita, KS explains what causes these issues and the remedies available for treating pain from wearing dentures.

How dentures work

To understand what causes denture pain, it is useful to know how dentures work and how they are kept in the mouth. There are three common types of dentures, but the ultimate goal of all of them is to replace one or more missing teeth.

• Partial dentures replace one or a few missing teeth and are usually kept in place with small clips but are removable for cleaning and sleeping
• Full dentures replace the full dental arch for patients who are missing all of their teeth; they are also fully removable and are typically held in place with natural suction or temporary adhesives
• Implant-supported dentures combine dentures with implant technology to provide a strong foundation upon which the dentures are affixed; with implant-supported dentures, patients do not have as many issues with their denture accidentally slipping or falling out

What causes denture pain

Denture pain can be caused by a number of factors. When a patient first gets dentures, it can take up to 30 days to get used to wearing the denture. During this time, patients may struggle with learning how to chew and speak with their new teeth, as well as experience soreness and pain on their gums from the denture. This pain can be due to inflammation in your gums from the new denture rubbing on them or maybe a result of the healing process from any tooth extractions that were done prior to receiving the denture.

Adjustments during the initial break-in period are sometimes necessary to get the best fit possible and reduce irritation on your gums. At East Wichita Dentist, we include six months of free follow-up care to ensure that your dentures fit you perfectly so you can get back to your normal life without worrying about denture-related pain. We encourage patients to come in for regular check-ups during this period and to let Dr. Koepsel know if they find their dentures uncomfortable in any way.

Beyond the first month in dentures, you may begin experiencing soreness or pain again if your jawbone changes shape over time or if your denture becomes cracked or warped. An improper fit can occur due to these changes, causing your denture to rub against your gums and cause irritation or sores.

Remedies for pain from wearing dentures

First and foremost, if you are experiencing a lot of pain during your initial denture break-in period or if you feel like your dentures don’t fit the same way that they used to, it is time to call East Wichita Dentist for a check-up! Dr. Koepsel will examine your dentures and how they fit in your mouth and can make adjustments as needed or order you new dentures if they have become irreparably warped or damaged.

While you are waiting for your dental appointment, you can take the following measures to alleviate your denture pain:

• Only eat soft foods in the first few weeks after you get your new dentures; soft foods are gentler on the gums and easier to chew as you get used to the dentures
• Use topical gels or creams that are intended specifically to relieve oral pain on any sore spots on your gums
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water with your dentures removed; swishing for 15 to 30 seconds at a time can reduce inflammation and soreness
• Regularly massage your gums to increase circulation and minimize swelling
• Use a denture adhesive after the dentist has given the go-ahead; you may need to wait a few weeks after you get your dentures to start using an adhesive
• Apply aloe vera gel to your dentures one to two times per day to soothe your gums
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Remove your dentures while you sleep to give your gums a break

We also highly recommend that patients consider implant-supported dentures. The implants in these dentures provide a sturdy support system for the denture that greatly reduces the rubbing, slipping, and soreness that traditional dentures can cause, making the overall denture experience more comfortable. With implant-supported dentures, you can forget that you’re even wearing dentures and focus on what matters most to you in life!

To learn more about dentures and how to prevent and alleviate denture-related pain, call Dr. David Koepsel at East Wichita Dentist today at (316) 215-7152.