Over 41.23 million Americans wear dentures. Many patients ask, “Do dentures hurt?” before deciding on treatment. Hesitating to replace your missing teeth, however, could affect your oral health.
Read on to find the answers you’re searching for! In this guide, we’ll review why dentures may hurt. We’ve also added denture pain relief tips.
Put your fears to rest with this guide today!
Do Dentures Hurt?
Denture pain is a common symptom among denture wearers. Your pain symptoms should only be minimal when you begin treatment. Your mouth will need time to adjust to your new dentures.
If the pain is unbearable and consistent, there’s likely a bigger issue. Here are a few reasons you might experience denture pain.
Improper Fit
New dentures are designed with a base of resin, which will sit atop your gum line. Your gums are soft and sensitive tissues. If your dentures don’t fit properly, they’ll begin to move.
They could rub against your sensitive gums, potentially causing blistering and soreness.
If your permanent dentures are placed before your gums have time to heal, they’ll become loose. They’ll continue shifting against your gum line when you eat or speak.
Old dentures can move if your underlying bone shrinks. The shape of your gums will change, causing a change in the fit.
If your dentures don’t fit properly, talk to your Versailles dentist. They can review alternative treatment options or give you new dentures.
For example, they may suggest dental bonding or dental veneers.
Allergies
Though it’s rare, allergies can cause denture pain.
You could have an allergic reaction to the acrylic, resin, or plastic used as part of your treatment. An allergic reaction can cause inflammation and discomfort.
As you learn how to clean dentures, check the products you’re using. Some cleaners and adhesives can trigger allergic reactions. You may experience a burning sensation in your mouth, gum irritation, or swelling.
These symptoms could lead to ulcers.
If these symptoms sound familiar, visit your dentist in Versailles.
Chewing Pressure
When you chew with your natural teeth, the pressure of biting down is placed on the bone (since your teeth are anchored to your jaw). When chewing with dentures, the pressure is applied onto the gums. As you adjust to your dentures, the pressure of chewing could cause temporary discomfort.
Give yourself time to adjust.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Visit your Versailles family dentist twice a year for routine checkups and teeth cleaning appointments. Prioritizing your oral health is essential. You also need to clean your dentures on a regular basis.
Otherwise, bacteria and yeast can form on your dentures. You could develop an infection in your gums.
Routine check-ups at your Versailles family dentistry practice give your dentist a chance to review your oral health. They can spot signs of issues before an infection develops. With their help, you can make informed improvements before complications occur.
Time
It can take time before you adjust to wearing your dentures. Give yourself 30 days. During this time, you could experience some mild discomfort.
Remember, this pain should only be temporary. If your pain persists after 30 days, talk to your Versailles dentist. They can determine the root cause of your pain.
You may need to replace dentures with a different treatment option.
Denture Pain Relief Tips
Remember, the pain is only temporary as you adjust to wearing your dentures. Thankfully, there are a few ways you can ease the pain. Try these denture pain relief tips to determine what works for you.
Chew Carefully
Chewing can cause your dentures to shift and rub against your gums. During the adjustment period, chew carefully and slowly. Give your gums time to heal.
You can make adjustments to your diet to ease the pain you’re experiencing.
Try to avoid sticky, crunchy, or hard-to-chew foods for a few days. Instead, stick to soft foods or liquid meals (like smoothies).
Take Pain Relievers
Talk to your Versailles dentist about pain relief options. They may recommend over-the-counter pain medications or anti-inflammatories. Consult your dentist if you’re already taking medications.
Your dentist can recommend a topical cream or gel instead.
There are also homeopathic remedies you can use. Try applying black tea to your gums. Black tea contains tannin, which reduces bacterial infections.
Steep the tea in a cup of hot water for five minutes. Remove the tea bag and give it time to cool down. Then, place the bag against your gums for 10 to 15 minutes.
Afterward, rinse your mouth using water.
Aloe vera offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can keep bacteria from growing in your mouth, soothe inflamed gums, and ease pain. Aloe could help prevent dry mouth (which can contribute to your pain).
Apply the gel to your sore gums using a cotton ball. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing your mouth using cool water. Don’t drink or eat for an hour afterward.
Rinse
Try rinsing your gums with salt water to remove bacteria.
Mix half a teaspoon of salt into half a cup of warm water. Swish it in your mouth for a minute before spitting it out.
Apply Adhesive
Denture adhesive will ensure your dentures stay snug against your gum line. You can avoid shifting and irritation. Adhesive will also keep food particles from getting trapped under your dentures.
Otherwise, food particles can cause plaque buildup and gum irritation.
Denture Care
Take care of your dentures. Clean them daily using products specifically made for dentures.
Avoid sleeping with your dentures on. Give your gums a rest after wearing them all day.
Soak your dentures in water and use a denture solution to keep them clean.
You can learn how to clean dentures to avoid bacteria build-up here.
Visit Your Versailles Dentist Today
To recap, do dentures hurt? They can, but the pain should only be temporary. If you experience issues with your dentures, visit your Versailles dentist.
They can determine the root cause of your pain before suggesting the most effective solution.
Need to visit your dentist? Contact Versailles Family Dentistry to schedule your appointment.