The answer is that while initial discomfort is a normal part of adjusting to a new dental appliance, persistent or severe pain signals a problem. Dental prosthetics (removable full dentures, permanent crowns, and dental implants) are designed to restore function and comfort. When discomfort moves beyond temporary soreness, it indicates a need for professional attention.
Discomfort from Removable Dental Appliances
Pain associated with removable devices like full or partial dentures is often mechanical, resulting from friction or uneven pressure on the gums and underlying bone. New wearers typically experience an adjustment period of two to four weeks as the tissues in the mouth adapt to the presence of the appliance. This initial phase often involves the development of sore spots where the edge of the denture rubs against the soft tissue.
Ill-fitting devices are a frequent cause of ongoing pain, particularly as the mouth changes over time following tooth loss. The underlying jawbone naturally shrinks or “resorbs,” causing the denture base to lose its snug fit and rock when chewing, which creates painful pressure points. This poor fit can also allow food debris to become trapped beneath the appliance, leading to irritation, inflammation, and potential infection. Proper hygiene is necessary to prevent the buildup of bacteria that causes irritation and pain.
Pain Related to Fixed Restorations and Implants
Discomfort from fixed restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and dental implants, stems from different sources, often related to the underlying tooth structure or surgical healing. Following dental implant surgery, mild soreness, bruising, and tenderness are expected and should gradually resolve within ten to fourteen days. If pain persists beyond this initial healing window, or suddenly reappears months later, it may signal an underlying issue.
For crowns and bridges placed over existing natural teeth, pain may indicate irritation of the nerve tissue inside the tooth. Preparing a tooth for a crown can sometimes inflame the nerve, leading to sensitivity to temperature or pressure that may take several weeks to resolve. A common mechanical issue for any fixed restoration is an improper bite alignment, where the new crown or bridge is slightly “high.” This creates excessive force when biting down, causing jaw joint strain, muscle soreness, or pain in the restored tooth.
Recognizing Serious Symptoms and Warning Signs
It is important to distinguish between normal, transient discomfort and symptoms that suggest a serious complication requiring immediate dental care. One of the most serious warning signs is the mobility of a fixed appliance, particularly a dental implant, which should feel as solid as a natural tooth. Movement or a wiggling sensation in an implant may indicate a failure to properly fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration) or bone loss due to infection.
Signs of a developing infection, such as peri-implantitis around an implant or decay under a crown, are urgent matters. These symptoms require immediate evaluation:
- Persistent swelling, redness, or tenderness of the gum tissue that does not improve after several days.
- The presence of pus or discharge from the site.
- A persistent foul odor or taste, or a fever that accompanies the localized pain.
- Persistent numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin after an implant procedure, suggesting potential nerve involvement.
Immediate Steps for Comfort and Long-Term Prevention
While waiting for a dental appointment, several immediate steps can provide temporary relief from discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Rinsing the mouth several times a day with a warm saltwater solution can soothe irritated tissues and promote healing.
If a removable denture is causing a specific sore spot, wearing the appliance less frequently, or removing it a few hours before the appointment, can allow the tissue to rest. It is essential to wear the denture for a few hours immediately before the dental visit so the sore spot is visible for the necessary adjustment. Never attempt to adjust or file down any dental appliance yourself, as this can cause permanent damage.
Long-term prevention involves maintaining a meticulous oral hygiene routine. This includes cleaning the appliance and the surrounding tissues daily, and attending regular dental checkups to monitor the fit of dentures and the health of fixed restorations.