Whether it’s a pinpoint toothache or tender denture sores, oral pain is no fun. Some might even say it’s the worst place to get an ache. You may or may not be on that end of the spectrum, but either way, no one wants you to be hurting – least of all your dentist!
When it comes to dental discomfort, your dentist should always be one of the first people you contact. That’s what they’ve trained for, after all. While you wait for your appointment, though, it would be helpful to try and determine the source of your pain and alleviate what you can. Keep reading for more information.
When Your Dentures Don’t Fit
Your out-of-shape prosthetic can cut or rub against your gums, causing irritation, blisters, and sometimes even headaches or earaches. If your bite feels off, your dentures slip more than usual, or you hear a clicking sound when you chew, your false set of teeth may be bent or warped. Fortunately, your dentist can adjust or replace them to solve the issue.
When Your Prosthetic Isn’t Exactly Pristine
Then food particles and harmful bacteria can get stuck between your gums and dentures. Aside from being uncomfortable, bacteria buildup can lead to gum disease if you’re not careful. This infection will eat away at your gums, and as they thin, you’ll have a harder and harder time wearing your dentures.
Advanced gum disease is complicated to treat, but when caught early can be quite simple to remove. Stay on top of your oral hygiene and visit your dentist every six months so they can check on your gums!
Temporary Remedies
Remember that ultimately, you’ll need to see your dentist to permanently solve your denture woes. It doesn’t hurt to slap a Band-Aid on the problem in the meantime, though, and that’s what these home remedies are for:
- Ibuprofen, Tylenol, or other pain relievers can often soothe dental discomfort.
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater to slow down bacterial growth, and rinse with sage tea for some pleasant pain relief.
- Apply a topical numbing gel to your sores.
- Soak your dentures in their cleaning solution at night to purge harmful bacteria and give your gums a much-deserved break.
Denture discomfort can be, well, a pain. But with some mindful care and help from your dentist, you’ll be able to slide back into daily life – and a comfier set of dentures!
About the Practice
Drs. Mu Salayta and Schuyler Pracht go out of their way to make dental treatments comfortable and convenient for their patients. They deliver the kind of one-on-one, personalized care that truly makes a practice stand out. No matter the cause of your denture discomfort, Drs. Salayta and Schuyler will find a solution that works best for you! To contact their office, call 918-299-2298.