Caring for Your Immediate Dentures | Ventura Bright Dental

Caring for Yourself and Your Immediate Dentures

Guidance from Ventura Bright Dental – Ventura, CA

If you’ve recently had teeth removed and were fitted with immediate dentures, you’re likely adjusting to some big changes. At Ventura Bright Dental, we want to ensure your healing process is smooth and your dentures stay comfortable and functional.

Immediate dentures are placed on the same day your natural teeth are removed, giving you the benefit of walking out with a full smile — but they do require special care in the early days of healing.

Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your mouth and your new dentures after surgery.

What Are Immediate Dentures?

Immediate dentures are custom-fitted complete or partial dentures placed directly after tooth extraction. They serve to:

• Help control swelling and bleeding
  
  

• Support oral tissue as it heals
  
  

• Maintain your smile and confidence
  
  

• Allow you to begin eating and speaking sooner
  
  

Because your gums and bone will continue to change shape during healing, adjustments or relines are often needed in the weeks following placement.

First 24 Hours After Surgery

Keep Dentures In

It’s very important to leave your dentures in overnight after your procedure, unless your dentist tells you otherwise. Removing them too soon may:

• Disrupt the healing process
  
  

• Lead to swelling, making it difficult to reinsert them
  
  

• Increase bleeding or discomfort
  
  

Take Medication as Prescribed

Follow any instructions from your oral surgeon or dentist, especially when it comes to pain relief or antibiotics.

The Next Morning

• Remove your dentures carefully and rinse your mouth gently with lukewarm salt water (not mouthwash).
  
  

• Do not disturb blood clots or healing sites in your gums.
  
  

• Rinse and gently clean your dentures using a denture brush or soft toothbrush.
  
  

• Replace the dentures back in your mouth without delay to avoid swelling that can affect the fit.
  
  

Days 2–7: Adjusting and Healing

• Stick to soft foods such as smoothies, scrambled eggs, soups, and yogurt.
  
  

• Gradually introduce firmer foods as you gain confidence and comfort.
  
  

• Keep wearing your dentures, including at night, unless advised otherwise.
  
  

• Continue to rinse and clean your dentures daily to remove debris and prevent bacteria buildup.
  
  

• Monitor for sore spots, swelling, or areas of irritation, and contact us if anything feels off.
  
  

After the First Week

Once initial swelling subsides (usually after 7–10 days), you can begin to leave your dentures out overnight, allowing your gums to rest. This:

• Helps prevent sore spots and irritation
  
  

• Improves long-term gum health
  
  

• Keeps your mouth more hygienic
  
  

Long-Term Denture Care Tips

Clean Your Dentures Daily

Use a non-abrasive denture brush and gentle cleanser. Avoid regular toothpaste — it’s too harsh and can scratch the surface.

Soak Dentures Overnight

Use an effervescent denture cleaning solution, such as Steradent or a similar product, following the instructions on the packaging. Always rinse thoroughly before wearing them again.

Keep Dentures Moist

When not in your mouth, dentures should always be stored in clean water or a denture-soaking solution to keep the acrylic from drying out or warping.

Expect Adjustments

As your gums heal, their shape will change. If your denture starts to feel loose or uncomfortable, it may need to be:

• Relined for a better fit
  
  

• Adjusted for bite alignment or speech issues
  
  

This is a normal part of the healing journey and nothing to worry about.

Questions or Concerns? We’re Here to Help.

At Ventura Bright Dental, we’re with you every step of the way as you adjust to your new smile. If you're experiencing discomfort, difficulty speaking, or any concerns with your immediate dentures, don’t hesitate to call us.

Let’s make sure your dentures fit properly, feel comfortable, and support your oral health.

Contact Ventura Bright Dental
(805) 666-1919
3450 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
www.venturabrightdental.com

A Final Note

The contents of this blog post are of a general nature only and may not apply to your specific circumstances. As every person is different, we always recommend that you visit a qualified dental practitioner to obtain tailored dental advice to suit your individual needs.

Disclaimer:

The information on this website is for educational purposes only. Ventura Bright Dental is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content. Always consult your dentist or healthcare professional for advice specific to your situation.