What Are The Top Causes Of Denture Pain, And How Do You Treat It?

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What Are The Top Causes Of Denture Pain, And How Do You Treat It?

We are delighted you have a new set of dentures from a Calgary denturist. Denture pain can be a real bother, especially when you are learning to eat or talk comfortably. Let’s explore why dentures may hurt and how you can resolve the discomfort.

Poor Fit

Why It Hurts: Dentures need to fit just right in your mouth. If dentures are loose or tight, they can rub against your gums and cause sore spots.

How to Treat It:

  • See Your Dentist: The best way to resolve the discomfort is to visit your dentist. They can adjust your dentures to fit better.
  • Adhesive: Denture adhesive can help reduce movement with your dentures.

Mouth Sores

Why It Hurts: Dentures can sometimes cause mouth sores, especially when you are new to wearing them. Sore gums from dentures can persist until your mouth adjusts.

How to Treat It: 

  • Rinse with Salt Water: Mix one teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with it. This helps to clean and soothe the sores.
  • Remove Dentures at Night: Give your mouth a break by removing your dentures before you go to sleep.

Food Particles

Why It Hurts: Small bits of food can get stuck between your dentures and gums, causing discomfort or pain.

How to Treat It: 

  • Clean Your Dentures Regularly: Make sure you clean your dentures after eating to remove any food particles.
  • Brush Your Gums: Use a soft toothbrush to clean your gums and remove any stuck food.

Gum Infections

Why It Hurts: Why do my new dentures hurt my gums? If your gums are infected, they can become red, swollen, and painful. Infections can happen if you don’t clean your dentures properly or have other dental problems.

How to Treat It:

  • Visit Your Dentist: They can give you medication to treat the infection.
  • Keep Your Dentures Clean: Make sure to clean your dentures every day to prevent infections.

Changes in Your Mouth

Why It Hurts: Your mouth can change shape over time, especially if you’ve lost weight or it’s been a while since you got your dentures. When your mouth changes, your dentures might not fit as well as they used to.

How to Treat It:

  • Regular Check-Ups: Visit your dentist regularly to check if your dentures need adjustments.
  • New Dentures: Sometimes, you might need new dentures that fit the current shape of your mouth better.

Allergic Reactions

Why It Hurts: Some people can be allergic to the materials used to create the dentures. This can cause your gums to become red and sore.

How to Treat It:

  • See Your Dentist: Your dentist can check for an allergic reaction and suggest dentures made from different materials.
  • Switch Denture Materials: Opt for hypoallergenic dentures if you are allergic to the standard materials.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Why It Hurts: Not keeping your mouth and dentures clean can lead to plaque buildup, bad breath, and pain. Good oral hygiene is important, even when you wear dentures.

How to Treat It:

  • Brush and Soak: Brush your dentures with a denture brush and soak them in a denture cleaner daily.
  • Brush Your Gums and Tongue: Your gums and tongue should be brushed regularly for optimal health.

Jaw Pain

Why It Hurts: Sometimes dentures can cause jaw pain, especially if they don’t fit well or if you have to bite down harder to keep them in place.

How to Treat It:

  • Denture Adjustments: Your dentist can adjust your dentures to make them more comfortable.
  • Jaw Exercises: Gentle exercises can help strengthen your jaw muscles and reduce pain.

Dry Mouth

Why It Hurts: Saliva helps keep your mouth moist and comfortable. If you have a dry mouth, your dentures can rub against your gums and cause pain.

How to Treat It:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Use Saliva Substitutes: There are products on the market to maintain moisture in your mouth.
  • Chew Sugar-Free Gum: This can stimulate saliva production.

Incorrect Biting and Chewing

Why It Hurts: Incorrect biting or chewing can put extra pressure on certain areas of your gums, causing pain.

How to Treat It:

  • Practice Chewing: Take small bites and chew slowly to get used to your dentures.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to softer foods until you are more comfortable with your dentures.

Considering Restoring Your Smile with Dentures?

If your dentures are causing discomfort, don’t ignore the issue. Seek assistance promptly to ensure you can eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Persistent pain warrants a visit to your dentist for relief. Clean your dentures and mouth daily and be patient to give your mouth time to adjust.

If you are looking for a denture clinic in Calgary, we are here for you! At North East Denture Clinic, our patients are a top priority and our dental clinic welcomes new patients. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.