The process of receiving new dentures marks a significant step toward restoring function and appearance, but it also initiates a necessary adjustment period for the mouth and jaw tissues. The initial schedule is highly specific and designed to ensure proper healing and fit, setting the foundation for comfortable, long-term use. Following the instructions provided by your dental professional is important for a successful transition.
The Critical First 24 Hours
For the first 24 hours after receiving your new dental appliance, the standard instruction is to leave the dentures in continuously, including while sleeping, unless advised otherwise. This initial, uninterrupted wear period serves as both a protective measure and a diagnostic tool. If teeth were recently extracted, the denture functions similarly to a protective bandage, helping to control swelling and bleeding in the underlying gum tissues.
The initial 24-hour mark is often when the first follow-up appointment is scheduled, and the dentures must remain in place until that visit. Wearing the appliance without removal allows high-pressure points that cause irritation or sore spots to become clearly visible to the dentist. These areas, which cause early discomfort, can then be accurately identified and relieved through minor adjustments. Removing the appliance beforehand would allow the irritated tissues to recover temporarily, making it impossible for the dentist to locate and correct subtle fitting issues.
Establishing the Daily Wear Schedule
Once the initial 24 to 48-hour period is complete and necessary adjustments have been made, the wear schedule transitions to prioritize tissue health and circulation. The long-term recommendation is to wear the dentures during the day and remove them each night. This typically means wearing the appliance for about 10 to 12 hours daily, giving the supporting tissues a rest period of six to eight hours.
Removing the dentures at night is a clinical necessity for maintaining the health of the underlying gum and bone structure. The supporting tissues require a daily rest from constant pressure, allowing for improved circulation and recovery. Consistent overnight wear prevents the tissues from resting and can lead to denture stomatitis, characterized by inflammation and redness. Allowing the tissues to breathe also reduces the risk of fungal overgrowth and helps preserve the jawbone’s integrity.
Managing Initial Discomfort and Adjustment
It is expected to experience physical challenges during the first few weeks as the mouth adapts to the new appliance. One common response is increased saliva production, which the body produces as a reaction to the presence of a foreign object. This excessive flow, along with minor muscle soreness in the cheeks and tongue, usually subsides within a few weeks. Practicing speech by reading aloud or conversing frequently helps the muscles and tongue learn to position themselves correctly around the new shape.
Sore spots are the most common issue, developing where the denture base creates localized pressure against the gum tissue. While minor irritation can be soothed temporarily with warm salt water rinses, any persistent or painful sore spot requires professional attention. Contact your dentist for an adjustment appointment rather than attempting to alter the denture yourself, as self-modification can damage the appliance and worsen the fit. During the first month, a diet of soft, non-sticky foods, cut into small pieces, minimizes pressure and movement, aiding in preventing new sore spots.
Essential Care During the Adjustment Phase
Maintaining strict hygiene is integral to the adjustment phase, preventing infection and ensuring the longevity of the appliance. Dentures must be cleaned daily using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser or mild soap. Regular toothpaste is often too harsh and can cause microscopic scratches on the acrylic surface. After every meal, a quick removal and rinse under warm water helps dislodge food particles and prevent buildup.
When the appliance is removed for the mandatory rest period, it must be stored correctly to prevent the material from drying out and warping, which compromises the fit. Dentures should be placed in a denture-soaking solution or simply in water to keep them moist overnight. Every time the appliance is removed, the mouth—including the gums, tongue, and palate—should be gently brushed to stimulate circulation and remove residual plaque and bacteria.