The decision to get dentures, which are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues, often comes with concern about discomfort. While the process of obtaining and adjusting to dentures can involve some soreness, significant or lasting pain is manageable and preventable. Understanding the stages where discomfort is most likely to occur helps patients set realistic expectations for their journey.
Discomfort Before Denture Placement
The most pronounced discomfort is frequently associated with the preparation phase, specifically the removal of remaining teeth. If extractions are necessary, the acute pain following the procedure is managed with standard post-operative care and prescribed medications. The highest levels of pain usually occur within the first 24 to 72 hours following surgery, accompanied by swelling and tenderness.
Healing time is a significant factor, as the gums and underlying bone need to stabilize before a final conventional denture can be fitted. This initial phase, involving the reshaping and shrinkage of gum tissues and bone, can take around 8 to 12 weeks for an accurate fit. During this period, a temporary or immediate denture may be placed directly after extractions. This appliance puts pressure on the healing tissues and is a common source of irritation.
The process of taking dental impressions, which creates a mold of the mouth, is generally not painful but can be uncomfortable. Patients may experience a gag reflex or the need to remain perfectly still while the impression material sets. While some individuals report pain if a tray is the wrong size and impinges on the gums, this is not the typical experience.
Immediate Pain and Sore Spots
Once the new, permanent denture is placed, discomfort begins as the mouth adapts to the foreign appliance. It is common to experience tenderness and soreness as the soft tissues and muscles adjust to the new shape and pressure. This initial discomfort is a normal part of the process, requiring the jaw muscles to adapt to the new mechanics of chewing and speaking.
The most frequent complaint is the development of localized sore spots, where the denture rubs against the gums, creating irritation or small ulcers. These friction points arise from uneven pressure distribution or slight imperfections in the denture’s fit, particularly as the tissues compress under the new load. Immediate dentures present a unique challenge because the tissues are still healing and changing shape rapidly. This means they are more prone to becoming loose and causing sore spots quickly.
New dentures can also cause initial muscle soreness because the facial muscles and tongue must learn to hold the appliance securely. Furthermore, the acts of eating and speaking require practice, and patients should begin with soft foods to avoid excessive pressure on the gums. This initial adjustment period, where discomfort is most noticeable, can last for a few weeks.
Managing Discomfort During the Adjustment Phase
The discomfort experienced in the first few weeks is temporary and can be effectively managed with professional intervention and home care. The most important step for resolving sore spots is returning to the dentist for professional adjustments. Trying to fix the fit at home is strongly discouraged, as a dental professional can identify pressure points using specialized paste and make precise adjustments to the acrylic.
Patients can manage daily soreness with simple home remedies. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief. Rinsing the mouth with a warm salt water solution several times a day can soothe irritated gum tissue and promote healing.
During this adjustment phase, major discomfort typically subsides within two to four weeks. Maintaining a soft diet is beneficial, as eating softer foods allows the gums to toughen up without the added pressure of hard or sticky items. Denture adhesives can also enhance the stability of the appliance, reducing movement and friction that causes irritation.
Preventing Long-Term Denture Pain
Pain that develops months or years after the initial fitting is often a result of changes in the oral anatomy rather than the denture itself. The most significant long-term change is residual ridge resorption, which is the inevitable bone loss that occurs after teeth are removed because the bone is no longer stimulated. As the underlying jawbone shrinks, the denture loses its secure fit and begins to rub against the tissues, leading to chronic irritation and pain.
This loss of fit can cause the denture to press down on the exposed bony ridge, which is a source of chronic pain. To prevent this, regular checkups are necessary so the dentist can monitor the fit and perform a reline or rebase. This involves adding new material to the appliance to restore stability. Distributing chewing forces evenly through a proper occlusion, or bite, can also help slow the rate of bone loss.
Proper maintenance is also a factor in preventing chronic pain. Removing the dentures every night allows the denture-bearing tissues to rest and recover from continuous pressure. Thorough daily cleaning prevents the buildup of bacteria and food particles, which can cause inflammation and infections that lead to soreness. Ignoring a persistent sore spot or a continuously loose fit can lead to complications and should prompt an immediate visit to the dental professional.