Instructions for Immediate Denture Patients
Download and Print our Immediate Denture Care Instructions
The new dentures you have received are the replacement for your missing teeth. They will attempt to restore support to the jaws, increase your chewing ability and improve your appearance. This information sheet will assist you with your adjustment to new dentures.
Your dentures were made to fit the anticipated shape of your mouth after the removal of the teeth. Modifications to the denture are always necessary and will continue during the healing period. Many changes have occurred at one time and it may take some time to become adjusted to your new dentures.
The First 24 Hours
It is VERY IMPORTANT to keep the immediate denture in your mouth until the doctor sees you the day after surgery. The denture serves as a dressing to help stop the bleeding. If the denture is removed, you may not be able to replace it in your mouth due to swelling of the tissue.
Changes of the Mouth
The most common changes following immediate denture delivery are:
- Immediate swelling
- Increase in saliva
- Speech alteration
- Discomfort
- Gagging
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Mouth Odor
- Minor bleeding
- Difficulty in chewing
- Facial Appearance
You may experience some of these problems. They can all be overcome as you become used to the new dentures and as the doctor adjusts them to fit your mouth.
First Post-Delivery Appointment
The day after you receive your dentures, the doctor will see you to adjust the denture for sore areas, the bite and any other initial problems. You will be given further instructions for the use and care of the dentures at this appointment.
Further Appointments
As you heal and use the dentures during the weeks after surgery, the dentures will occasionally become loose due to the normal shrinkage of the gums from healing. This will be adjusted as needed until healing is complete. Please contact the office with any questions or to schedule an adjustment appointment.
Final Denture
When healing is completed, a final denture will be constructed as the doctor discussed with you previously. This procedure will be the second phase of your rehabilitation.