Tips For Combatting Denture Soreness
If you are new to dentures or just recently got a new set, you may be experiencing some soreness. This isn't uncommon, especially when you are first adjusting to the dentures. The following tips can help you solve the pain issues so you can enjoy smiling again.
Quick relief
First and foremost, you will likely want quick relief from the discomfort. Topical teething ointments numb the pain. Although you can use the varieties formulated for teething infants, there are adult formulations that may work even better and that also often contain additives to help stave off infection. Rub the ointment onto the sore areas as needed.
Stave off infection
In most cases, your mouth will quickly adjust and the irritation will heal. The only concern is that infection could invade and slow down this adjustment and healing process. Oral hygiene is a must. You should brush your gums twice daily with a gum brush, and rinse your mouth with a mouthwash after. If you wear partial dentures, make sure to brush and floss your natural teeth at least twice daily, as well. Then, perform a salt water gargle three or more times daily until the irritation heals. The salt water further helps prevent infection, and it can also offer some pain relief.
Use a denture aid
There are two over the counter denture aids that can help with irritation issues. The most common fix is a denture fixative. You simply apply the fixative to the dentures as directed on the tube, and it holds them in place. This reduces any movement that may have been causing friction and irritation. If there is a specific area that feels rough or seems to be causing the soreness, then a dental wax may be able to remedy the issue. Warm up a small piece of the wax by rolling it between your fingers, then smooth it over the rough area that seems to be causing the irritation. You will need to reapply it periodically.
Contact a dentist
If the irritation persists for more than a few days to week, or if you begin experiencing soreness with your dentures when you didn't previously, you will need to visit a denture service or a dentist. Your dentures may require a refitting in order to remedy the issue. You don't want to ignore the problem because not only can it be painful, denture irritation can increase your likelihood of developing an infection.
Contact a dentist, like Gregory S Rutherford, DDS , for more help.