“Fake teeth” refers to dental prosthetics like dentures, crowns, bridges, and implants, designed to restore oral function and aesthetics. While initial discomfort is normal when adjusting to new prosthetics, persistent or severe pain is not typical. Such pain often signals an underlying issue requiring professional attention. Understanding the reasons for discomfort and when to seek help is crucial.
Navigating Initial Adjustment
When first receiving dental prosthetics like new dentures, crowns, or bridges, a period of adjustment is expected. This initial phase can involve discomfort as your mouth adapts. You might experience pressure, mild gum soreness, or awkwardness when speaking or eating. For instance, a new crown might feel “high” or cause sensitivity, which usually subsides.
This temporary discomfort typically resolves as your mouth becomes accustomed to the prosthetic, usually within a few days to a few weeks. During this time, consuming softer foods and using mild, dentist-recommended pain relievers can help manage soreness.
Common Reasons for Discomfort
Discomfort beyond the initial adjustment period or unexpected pain can stem from several issues. An improper fit is a frequent cause, particularly with removable dentures. Loose dentures rub against gums, leading to irritation, soreness, and painful sores. This often occurs as the jawbone changes shape over time, causing previously well-fitting dentures to become loose.
Underlying dental issues or infection are another common source of pain. Decay can form under crowns and bridges, or an existing nerve infection can flare up. Dental implants can sometimes develop peri-implantitis, an infection around the implant site. Symptoms of such infections often include pain, swelling, redness, or a bad taste.
Nerve irritation or damage is a less common but significant cause, primarily associated with dental implants. If an implant is placed too close to a nerve, it can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the lips, chin, or gums. Allergic reactions to prosthetic materials can also trigger inflammation, burning sensations, or localized rashes. Finally, damage to the prosthetic itself, like a chipped or fractured crown, can create sharp edges that irritate soft tissues or expose sensitive areas, leading to pain or increased temperature sensitivity.
When to Seek Professional Help
Contact your dentist promptly if you experience severe or worsening pain that does not subside with mild pain relievers. Any signs of infection, such as swelling, persistent redness, warmth, or pus around the prosthetic or gums, warrant immediate professional evaluation.
Difficulty eating or speaking due to pain, or a fever accompanying dental discomfort, also indicate a need for professional intervention. If a prosthetic feels loose, broken, or has significantly shifted, a dentist should assess it to prevent further complications. Any persistent discomfort impacting your daily quality of life should be brought to your dentist’s attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Maintaining Comfort Long-Term
Long-term comfort with dental prosthetics relies on consistent and proper care. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup, which can lead to gum irritation and infection. This involves specific routines: removable dentures require daily cleaning and soaking, while fixed prosthetics need diligent brushing and flossing.
Routine dental check-ups are also crucial for preventative care. These appointments allow your dentist to examine your prosthetics for wear or damage and assess overall oral health. Early detection of problems can prevent them from escalating. Avoiding habits like biting hard objects or using teeth as tools, and promptly reporting new discomfort, contributes to comfort and longevity.