Hello everyone. I just joined today. I am a 52 year old male who just had my remaining 12 of my teeth extracted (six upper front center and six lower front center 11 days ago. My question(s) is/are this: I have a hard time tolerating this full set of dentures. I am also a customer service representative so I have to sit at a computer and talk to customers all day long. To say this is difficult for me doesn't even begin to cover it. I took a few days off work right after the extractions but in my opinion it wasn't enough. To make matters even better (sarcasm), I get graded on the quality of my calls, and since I don't speak clearly yet and have to act like I'm not gagging, I am asking for any advice, especially from anyone who may have gone through a similar situation.

Many thanks.

Hi Uihawk,

Welcome to our site and dental forum!

It is typical to have some issues with the fit and wearing of new dentures. If the dentures have been made to fit well, meaning they are not too big, too small and are made well, then some of the issues can be alleviated by having the dentist adjust the dentures during the first month or so of the healing phase from the oral surgery.

I have a few questions, if you don't mind answering. Often there are pre or current conditions and lifestyle habits that make this new adventure a bit tougher. But sometimes things can be done to ease the transition a bit. Keep in mind that going into full dentures is never a quick transition even under ideal conditions. The fit of the dentures will also change as the mouth heals and the bone recedes and the gum inflammation decreases. Which can take several weeks or months depending on the individual.

1) Were the dentures, both upper and lower, put in immediately after the extractions?

2) If so, what has been your wearing pattern? Mostly kept in ... out unless working ... eat with them ... don't eat with them ... take them out to sleep ... leave them in while sleeping ... ?

3) Have you been eating a soft food diet? Meaning the consistency of eggs and other soft nutritious foods? Or have you been eating foods that require a lot of chewing like steak, sandwiches ... ?

4) Have you been back to your dentist for adjustments? Do you have areas that are particularly more sore than others?

5) Have you been using denture adhesive? If so, which one?

6) Did you wear partial dentures prior to having these teeth extracted?

7) How long ago were the posterior teeth removed?

8) Do you have or has your dentist told you that you have a dry mouth? This can become a chronic issue from certain medications, alcohol, cigarette smoking, use of mouthwash, certain toothpastes and denture cleaners, mouth breathing ... any of those things apply to you?

9) Why were the 12 teeth extracted? Periodontal disease ... tooth decay ... broken teeth from an injury ... ?

I understand the difficulties you are having with speaking and because that is your livelihood, it elevates the stress of this whole process even more. I am not a denture wearer, but I have dealt with countless denture wearers over my career and will try to help you if I can.