Getting dentures can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. It’s a new start to your self-confidence, ability to enjoy your food again and conversation without interference. And for most people, immediate dentures can be an excellent solution for the initial healing period. However, many patients are unaware that there are some restrictions, such as smoking, that they need to follow to help ensure the success and longevity of their new dentures. In this article, we explore whether or not it’s safe to smoke after getting immediate dentures.
Immediate Dentures: What Are They?
Immediate dentures are dentures that are placed in your mouth immediately after your teeth are extracted. They are specially made so that you can wear the dentures while your gums heal. Immediate dentures can be either complete dentures or partial dentures, depending on how many teeth are being extracted. With immediate dentures, you can leave the dentist’s office with teeth the same day your natural teeth are removed. This allows you to avoid the awkward gap in your smile which can not only be embarrassing but can also affect your ability to chew, speak and smile properly.
Smoking and Immediate Dentures
Now that you know what immediate dentures are, let’s address the question – can you smoke after getting immediate dentures? The simple answer is – no. Smoking after immediate dentures can lead to various complications that can lead to implant failure or a prolonged healing process. This is because smoking can impede the natural healing process of the gums, which can further affect the fit, comfort, and functionality of your dentures.
Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Smoke after Immediate Dentures:
1. Delayed Healing
As mentioned earlier, smoking can impede the natural healing process of your gums. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the gums, which increases the healing time for your mouth. This means you’ll have to wait longer before you can ditch your dentures and have your original smile back.
2. Higher Risk of Infection
Smoking can lead to a higher risk of infection, and when this happens inside the mouth, it can be detrimental to the healing process. Smoking weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off harmful bacteria that may cause infection.
3. Negative Effect on Breath and Dentures
Smoking can impact your breath, and your dentures will retain the smell of cigarettes. This combination can be unappealing and can create uncomfortable situations when in public.
4. Risk of Implant Failure
Patients who get implant-supported dentures must avoid smoking for at least six months after the surgery because smoking increases the risk of implant failure. This is due to the nicotine in cigarettes reducing the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream; this could result in adhering well with the jawbone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, smoking should be avoided at all costs after getting immediate dentures. It is critical to follow all post-op instructions, including what you can and cannot do after receiving your new dentures. Avoiding smoking is just one of the instructions to follow, but we cannot stress enough the importance of doing so. If you have any questions or concerns about smoking or any other activities after getting your immediate dentures, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist, who will provide the best guidance for optimal healing and a long life for your new dentures.
FAQ
What happens if you smoke with dentures?
Smoking is harmful to our health, and it can lead to severe health problems such as cancer, heart disease, and lung disease. When you smoke and wear dentures, it can be even more damaging to your oral health, and it can lead to several problems. Dentures are prosthetic teeth that are designed to fit your mouth, and they are held in place by adhesives, suction, or clasps. Smoking can cause several problems for denture wearers.
Firstly, smoking can cause your gums to become hardened. The activity of smoking usually hardens the gums to protect against the smoke that you inhale, which can cause your gums to shrink and start to recede. This can cause a problem with your dentures’ fit and lead to discomfort and soreness. Your dentures may also become loose and fall out or move around your mouth, which can lead to further irritation and discomfort.
Smoking can also cause a condition called dry mouth. The chemicals in smoke can decrease the production of saliva in your mouth, which can lead to dry mouth. Dry mouth can cause several problems, including bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. It can also lead to discomfort when trying to wear dentures, making it difficult to hold the full dentures securely in place.
Lastly, smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to an increased risk of oral cancer. This can cause the need for additional dental care for denture wearers, and it can even lead to an entire replacement of the dentures. This can be especially difficult for individuals who have become accustomed to their dentures and who do not want to have them replaced.
Smoking can cause significant problems for denture wearers. It can lead to a loss of the denture’s fit, dry mouth, and bad breath, and it can increase the risk of oral cancer. Quitting smoking is the best option for your oral health, and it can help to mitigate these potential problems.
What to do if you just got immediate dentures?
If you have just received your immediate dentures, there are certain things that you should keep in mind to ensure the healing process is smooth, comfortable, and quick. For the first few days, it is essential to wear your dentures at all times except when cleaning them. Doing so will help your gums heal and will also prevent any swelling that may occur.
You should avoid using mouthwashes for at least the first five days unless prescribed by your dentist. This is because some mouthwashes contain alcohol or other ingredients that may slow down the healing process. Instead, you can use warm water rinses as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
For the first few days following the placement of your dentures, you may experience some discomfort, irritation, or soreness. This is entirely normal, and you can use over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol to manage the pain. However, if the pain persists or becomes more severe, you should contact your dentist.
Eating with immediate dentures may be challenging at first, but it is recommended that you eat soft foods for the first few days. You should avoid sticky or hard foods as they may cause the denture to dislodge. Chewing with your back teeth will also help prevent any shifting of the dentures while eating.
It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene with your immediate dentures to prevent any infection or irritation. Brush your gums and tongue with a soft-bristled brush, and rinse your mouth with warm water after meals. You should also remove the dentures at night and soak them in water with a cleaning tablet.
Finally, it’s essential to follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon regularly during the healing process. They can adjust and make any necessary changes to the denture to ensure the best fit and comfort. With proper care and attention, your immediate dentures can provide you with a functional, comfortable, and confident smile.
How long does it take for immediate dentures to heal?
Immediate dentures are a type of denture that is placed in your mouth immediately after all your teeth have been removed. This type of denture is designed to allow your gums to heal while you continue to have teeth, and while the denture is in place, which means you do not have to be without teeth for any length of time.
The healing process from immediate dentures can vary depending on individual circumstances such as the extent of extractions, the patient’s general health, and other underlying issues, such as diabetes. Typically, it can take about six months for your gums to heal to the point where a permanent denture can be recommended.
However, it is important to note that this is just a rough guideline, and the healing time can vary from person to person. Some people may require even longer to fully heal, while others may be able to transition to permanent dentures sooner. Your dentist will monitor your healing progress and advise you when it is time to transition to permanent dentures.
It is important to follow your dentist’s care instructions during the healing process, which will include regular check-ups, cleaning of the dentures, and hygiene routines for your gums. This will help ensure that your gums heal properly and that the denture fits correctly.
Immediate dentures can be a great solution for those seeking a speedy denture option. The healing process typically takes about six months, but this can vary depending on individual factors. It is important to follow your dentist’s care instructions during this time to ensure proper healing and a smooth transition to permanent dentures.