However, there are instances that can cause your dentures to be ill-fitting, leading to sores. You can heal these sores.
What Causes Ill-Fitting Dentures?
When your dentures are ready, your dentist will check that they fit snugly and comfortably. However, over time, your jaw changes shape, due to bone reabsorption. This happens because your jaw no longer holds tooth roots, so your body sends the nutrients that were once used to keep the bone strong to other parts of the body. With dentures, this is inevitable. If you continue to wear ill-fitting dentures, they will rub against your gums and cause sores.
Get New Dentures
The first thing you can do to start healing from sores it to get fit for a new set of dentures. Whether you wear your current dentures or a set of temporary dentures while you wait for your new set, and even after you get your new set, wearing anything on your gums will undoubtedly be painful. So, in order to help keep pressure off of sores, you can use tissue conditioners. These temporary aids provide a cushion between your gums and the hard surface of dentures while sores heal.
Give Your Gums a Break
Give your gums some time to rest. Dentures are supported solely by your gums and the bony ridge underneath, and when left there for extended periods of time will cause irritation. If you have sores, this will only increase the pain. Take your dentures out at night and relieve that pressure.
Care for Sores
Rinse your mouth with a salt water solution. This will aid in the healing process while also killing bacteria that can cause infection. A warm compress can be used on your gums to alleviate pain. Avoid eating foods that are too hard, or anything crunchy that might scratch already sensitive tissue.
Instead, opt for softer foods. You should also stay away from anything that is too hot, acidic, spicy and/or salty. If the sores bleed, don't drink through a straw or spit, as you can dislodge the clot and slow the healing process.
If you have noticed a change in the way your dentures fit, don't wait until your next dental visit. Contact our office right away and have your mouth, and your dentures, examined and you can avoid sores from happening.
