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Preparing for IMMEDIATE DENTURES is important. INTERIM
OR TRANSITIONAL DENTURE would be a better term really since it
is to act as a splint for the period of bone and tissue healing.
After a short period of swelling (days), gum tissues begin to
undertake a longer process of remodelling (weeks). The remodelling
results in shrinkage of the gums. This will cause the denture to
become loose. As this occurs, soft lining material is added to
re-establish a proper fit of the denture.
Because of the frequent adjustment and relines that are added to
an interim denture, they are often not acceptable for long-term
wear. This is more likely the greater the number of teeth removed.
Usually a new or DEFINITIVE DENTURE is made following about 6
months of healing when the gum tissue remodeling has slowed and the
shape of the gum tissues is stabilized.
Normally, people have some questions, anxiety and even fears
about this big step - I certainly would have! Arranging time off,
the possibility of pain, changes in appearance, ridicule by friends
and family, and the possibility of disappointment all add to this
anxiety. I will try to cover some of these points and expect you to
bring forward any other questions that you have.
1. Some swelling and pain will occur depending on the difficulty
of extractions. The pain is usually minimal (much less that
expected) and can be controlled with painkillers.
2. If you are referred out to an oral surgeon and have a general
anesthetic, you may have stiffness in your neck and chest muscles
for a few days. This is due to a muscle relaxant used during the
anesthetic. Plan to take it easy and rest for 2-3 days even though
you may feel well.
3. It is normal to have excess saliva, which will be pink with
blood plasma. The taste is terrible but will improve daily. I will
remove your denture for the first time the day following surgery
and then give you rinsing instructions.
4. Keep the denture in for the first few nights. During this
time the denture is acting as a bandage.
5. You will have a feeling of fullness in your mouth. This
feeling will gradually subside with time. Often if people have been
missing back teeth the tongue will feel “fenced-in” at first until
it becomes used to the new contours in the mouth. If front teeth
are removed, facial appearance may be slightly fuller because of
the need to have a flange between the gums and the lips where there
was nothing before.
6. Be sure to get adequate nutrition. Eat, even though it seems
like an insurmountable problem. You can’t feel well with an empty
stomach! A daily multiple vitamin program is advisable for a month
to aid healing while your diet may be changed.
Suggested Diet During Your Transition
FIRST: 2-3 days
Fruit Juices (especially fresh orange juice)
Instant Breakfast Preparations (they are better cold)
Eggnogs
Scrambled Eggs
White Fish - Steamed
Cream of Wheat and Oatmeal
Soups
Vegetables done with a blender (or baby foods)
Custards
LATER: 2-3 weeks
Meatloaf and Hamburger Dishes
Souffles and Omelets
Casseroles (tuna with noodles etc.)
Chicken
Spaghetti or Lasagne
Macaroni and Cheese
French Toast
Mashed Potatoes
Soft Fruits (bananas, peaches etc.)
Most people have a much easier transition to an immediate
denture that they had anticipated but it is natural to worry about
the unknown. The secret is to persevere - it’s really up to
you.
I will see you regularly and work to provide comfort, a good
appearance and proper function with your new prosthesis. |