What are immediate dentures?

Immediate dentures are dentures that are placed in your mouth right after your teeth are extracted. The shape of your mouth changes quickly for about a month. As the healing process continues, your gums, which support the denture will shrink. Changes can continue for several months. During this time, it is important that you keep your dentist office appointments for adjustments. Following are tips to help you adjust to and take care of your immediate denture.

What to do right after surgery

Day 1. Keep your head up. Take your medication and rest. Put gentle biting pressure on your denture during the first four hours. Use cold packs to reduce swelling. Eat soft healthy foods such as mashed potatoes, soups, eggs or cottage cheese. Drink cool liquids. Be careful with hot foods. The plastic part of the denture may not allow you to feel hot food in some areas of your mouth. Don’t take out your denture during the first 24 hours! There may be some oozing of blood. The denture acts as a bandage to protect the extraction sites and helps to control bleeding and swelling.

Day 2. The dentist removes your denture and makes any needed adjustments. The dentist shows you how to remove and clean it.

Day 3-4, or until your stitches are removed.

Remove your denture three to four times a day and gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water). Lightly brush your denture at the same time, and then place in your mouth.

Getting used to your denture

A new denture is uncomfortable for the first several weeks. It may feel loose while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to hold it in place. Saliva may increase. You may feel minor irritation or soreness. You may bite your cheeks or tongue as you learn to use your new denture.