Post-Operative Instructions for Immediate Dentures

These instructions will help guide your healing process after receiving immediate dentures. Please read carefully and follow them closely for optimal recovery.

Click here for a printable version of these instructions: Immediate Dentures Post Op

First 24 Hours After 24 Hours

During the First 24 Hours

Do not remove the dentures, even at bedtime. They protect the healing areas. The dentist will remove and clean them at your first post-operative appointment, usually the next day.
Do not rinse your mouth. This protects newly formed blood clots, which are essential for healing.
Eat soft foods only. If you do not feel like eating, drink plenty of fluids such as milk or fruit juice.
Some discomfort is normal once anesthesia wears off. Use simple pain relievers like Tylenol if needed. Taking medicine before bedtime on the first night can help you sleep. Avoid ibuprofen on an empty stomach to prevent irritation or ulcers.
You may notice a little blood in your saliva. This is normal and not a cause for concern.

After the First 24 Hours

Saltwater Rinses

Rinse frequently with hot saltwater about six times per day for the first 3 days: after meals and in-between. Method: Gently remove dentures over a basin of water. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of hot (not boiling) water. Swish and tilt your head so healing areas are bathed for 10–15 seconds. Repeat until the glass is empty. After the second post-operative visit, reduce rinses to 3 times per day for 7–10 more days.

Diet

Avoid tough, chewy, or sticky foods. Place food on back teeth with a spoon or fork, chewing thoroughly on both sides. Gradually, you can return to a more normal diet.

Denture Wear at Night

During the first week, it is helpful to wear dentures at night to aid familiarization. Your dentist will advise when to start removing them at night. Night removal helps soft tissues relax and should become a permanent habit.

Adjustment and Looseness

Gum and bone healing may cause dentures to loosen. Complete dentures are relined after about six months. Temporary dentures or partials will be replaced with permanent ones after six months. Denture adhesives or temporary relines may be used under supervision if needed.

Denture Cleaning

Remove dentures for cleaning after every meal during the first six months. Clean thoroughly at night with a brush and denture toothpaste or liquid hand soap. Rinse well. Soak overnight in a liquid denture cleanser (Polident, Efferdent, Kleenite) or a 50% household vinegar solution once a week. Avoid regular toothpaste as it is abrasive.

If anything in this document is unclear, please don’t hesitate to ask us.
We are committed to helping you get the best from your immediate dentures.

For questions outside normal business hours, Dr. Abey or Dr. Phasuk may be reached via their cell or home numbers listed above.