The placement of new dentures, especially the temporary kind known as immediate dentures, often begins with a mandatory period of continuous wear. This initial 24-hour period is standard practice in post-extraction care, designed to manage immediate physiological changes in the mouth. Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue, restoring both function and appearance. Understanding the first steps after this initial period is important for ensuring the healing process progresses correctly and for successfully adapting to life with a denture. The instructions for the first removal are specific and must be followed carefully to protect the surgical sites and begin a healthy long-term routine.
The Critical First Removal: Instructions After 24 Hours
Yes, you can and should remove your new dentures after the first 24 hours, or as specifically instructed by your dental professional. This first removal must be performed gently to avoid disturbing the extraction sites. It is often recommended to perform this over a sink filled with water or a soft towel to prevent damage if the denture is dropped. The denture will feel very secure due to the suction and any initial swelling that has occurred.
To break the seal, rinse your mouth with warm water, or use your finger to apply gentle pressure to the back outer corner of the denture. This slight leverage helps to dislodge the appliance without forceful pulling. You may notice some tightness or initial soreness when the denture comes out, which is a normal part of the process. If you had extractions, some dark blood or clots inside the denture are expected during this early healing phase.
Once removed, the denture must be cleaned immediately, and the soft tissues of the mouth need attention before the denture is put back in. It is common to be instructed to reinsert the denture right after this first cleaning and rinse, as the gums can swell quickly without the appliance acting as a splint. The dental team usually schedules a follow-up visit within the first 24 to 72 hours for an initial check and adjustment.
The Rationale Behind the Initial 24-Hour Wear
The necessity of wearing immediate dentures continuously for the first 24 hours is directly tied to the body’s healing response following tooth extractions. The denture functions as a protective surgical dressing, or a “bandage,” over the fresh extraction sites. This constant pressure helps to control post-operative bleeding by promoting clot formation and keeping the tissue compressed.
The appliance also plays a significant role in managing swelling, which naturally occurs after surgery. If the denture were removed too soon, the gums and surrounding tissue would swell rapidly, making it extremely difficult or impossible to reinsert the denture due to the change in shape and size. Keeping the denture in place helps to maintain the contours of the soft tissue and guides the initial healing process. The denture also ensures that the underlying bone, which is pliable after extractions, begins to conform to the shape of the appliance.
Cleaning and Inspection: Your First Steps
Once the denture is removed after the first 24 hours, the focus shifts to hygiene and tissue inspection. The denture should be cleaned using a soft-bristled brush and a mild soap or a specialized denture cleanser. Avoid abrasive materials like regular toothpaste, as they can scratch the surface and allow bacteria to accumulate. The denture should be rinsed under cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can cause the acrylic material to warp and compromise the fit.
Simultaneously, the mouth needs gentle cleaning to clear the surgical sites and stimulate the gums. A common recommendation is to rinse the mouth with a warm salt water solution, using about one teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water. This rinse should be done gently, avoiding forceful spitting, which could dislodge a healing blood clot. You should also use a very soft toothbrush to gently clean and massage the gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth, even in areas where teeth are missing.
During this cleaning, it is important to inspect the oral tissue for any signs of complications. Look for areas of excessive bleeding that do not stop, or any persistent, localized pressure sores or blisters, often called “hot spots.” Some minor soreness is expected, but if there is severe or worsening pain, or if you notice any signs of infection, contact your dentist immediately. These localized sore spots indicate where the denture is causing too much pressure and will require an adjustment by your dental professional.
Adjusting to a New Daily Denture Routine
Following the first removal, the next step is establishing a consistent, daily routine to maintain oral health and the longevity of the denture. Dentures must be removed nightly for at least six to eight hours to allow the gum tissues and underlying bone to rest. Continuous wear can accelerate bone resorption and increase the risk of developing a fungal infection known as denture stomatitis.
When the dentures are out of the mouth, they must be kept moist to prevent the acrylic from drying out, which could cause the material to warp and affect the fit. They should be submerged in plain water or a commercial denture soaking solution. If the denture has a soft reline, your dentist may instruct you to soak it only in water, as some cleansers can damage the temporary lining material.
Regular follow-up appointments are necessary in the weeks and months following the initial placement, especially with immediate dentures. As the extraction sites heal, the gums and bone will shrink and remodel, causing the fit of the denture to change. Your dentist will need to perform adjustments and possibly a reline to ensure the denture remains comfortable and stable during this healing period, which can last several months.