• While dentures can improve appearance and function, allowing patients to smile and eat with confidence, just as they did before tooth loss, they feel and act differently than natural teeth. Few follow up visits may be needed immediately after insertion of the dentures for minor modifications and adjustments that would enhance the fit of the dentures. Initially they may irritate the gums due to friction but over a brief period of time as they are used regularly, the gums adapt to the dentures and the patients become comfortable using them. Certain methods and procedures would be explained by the dentist as to how to maintain their position in the mouth. The patient should learn how to speak, eat, and drink while wearing dentures and use them effectively.

The following will help you to use and properly care for your new denture.

• It is normal to experience some discomfort, sore spots and speech problems while getting used to your new dentures. Your dentures will need a few adjustments until you are comfortable. To help with speech, read aloud for a few minutes every day. Your mouth will adjust, and your speech will improve.

• Your bite will need to be adjusted as your dentures settle.

• It is important to clean your denture with a denture brush and a mild toothpaste. Soaking your denture once a week in denture cleaner (eg; Polident) will keep them clean.

• You should leave your dentures out for at least six hours to allow your gums to rest. Food particles trapped under the denture cause inflammation and sore spots. Brush the roof of your mouth as well as your gums and tongue. This will help keep your mouth healthy.

• For partial dentures with metal clasps, special care should be taken while inserting and removing them. Keep your partials and remaining natural teeth absolutely clean to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

• You should return to have your dentures and mouth check at least once a year. As changes in the mouth occur with further bone loss and wear on the teeth. These changes will make the denture not fit right thus causing trauma to your gums and bone leading to continuing damage. • With proper care we expect you to have years of satisfied use of your dentures. However, over time, there are changes in your jawbone and gums. When this occurs, your dentures/partials will feel loose and may require relining. Wearing ill-fitting dentures/partials for too long without refitting can cause severe bone loss and very serious oral disease. Please call our office if these symptoms occur.