When to remove your denture:
The pressure from your denture will help to reduce bleeding and swelling. If possible leave it in place for 24 hours after your procedure. At that time you should remove the denture, rinse it off and rinse your mouth out with warm salt water (1 tsp salt to 8 oz of fairly warm water). Immediately replace the denture and do not remove it until bedtime. From this point you should remove the denture at bedtime, place it in water to soak, and leave it out while you sleep, this allows the tissues to maintain their health.
Maintain a proper diet:
Foods should be soft and nutritious for the first several days. Add solid foods to your diet as soon as they are comfortable to chew. Avoid carbonated beverages and the use of straws for 72 hours. DO NOT SMOKE for at least 72 hours, since it is very detrimental to healing.
Stitches:
Dr. Ruby may put stitches in your mouth that will have to be removed. This procedure can be done when you come in for your follow up appointment. This procedure is very quick and painless. Other stitches are dissolvable and will come out naturally appearing like strands.
Bite Relationship:
It will probably be necessary to have adjustments to the bite of your denture. This should be done by Dr. Ruby, as he is most familiar with your proper jaw and tooth relationship.
Sore Spots:
It is normal for sore spots to develop during the first two weeks or beyond. This can generally be managed by adjustment of the denture (done by Dr. Ruby). However, bone spicule or sharp area of tissue is causing the problem, this can be easily treated by Dr. Ruby.
Retention:
During the following months after surgery, you will experience gum shrinkage and go through periods of a loose-fitting denture. Remember, healing must occur before any judgment can be made about its long-term stability or fit. Dr. Ruby may have to adjust the denture for the next several visits. In the meantime, if retention becomes a significant problem, a temporary lining material may be placed to help improve stability. Following the healing period (1 year) a hard reline can be performed to make the denture fit properly. Relines may be required every 2 years after that to account for normal changes in the mouth.
Speaking and Staying Comfortable:
You may have difficulty speaking for a short period. If this happens, practice by reading aloud until you are comfortable. You can also try speaking more slowly and quietly. While your mouth gets used to the new denture, it may seem bulky, you may notice increased salivary flow, and your toungue will feel crowded. These sensations should pass with time. An upper denture can cause some to feel like they are gagging. Call us if this continues beyond the initial adjustment period.
Regular Dental Visits:
After complete healing and hard reline of dentures and final adjustments it is recommended to return to our officwe for re-care. This is for denture cleaning, follow-up and evaluation of dentures, (bone loss and wearing of teeth will inevitably occur) and oral cancer screening by the doctor. Careful maintenance of the dentures and the supporting soft tissues is a key to continued success with dentures.
When to Call us:
Please call us right away if your denture breaks, cracks, chips, or if a tooth becomes loose, so it can be repaired. Also, call us if your bite feels uneven, your denture becomes loose, you have sore spots, irriation, swelling or discomfort, or if you have any questions or concerns. 231-845-6313.
We know this stage isn't easy. Our compassion and knowledge combined with your commitment and patience will get you through this!