How to Address Pain from Dentures: Seeking Dental Solutions

How to manage denture pain?

Hello, Doctor.
Recently, I've been experiencing pain when chewing food with my lower right denture, which was made over a decade ago.
As a result, I've been using my left teeth to chew for a long time.
However, recently, my upper left tooth often gets food stuck in it, leading to gum inflammation and pain while eating as well.
I couldn't stand it anymore and went to see a dentist.
When I explained my issues, the first thing he said was that I should go back to the person who made my denture (which I thought was fair since he wouldn't profit from it).
But the denture has been in place for so long, where can I find the original dentist? I just wanted him to check it out and see if it could be treated; I wasn't asking him to take responsibility!
I would like to ask the doctor about my denture issues.
Initially, it hurt when biting down, but now it has progressed to a constant throbbing pain even when I'm not eating, which is severe enough to wake me up at night, and drinking water makes it even more painful.
Is this sensitivity? But isn't it the denture? How could that be? My denture was made after extracting a tooth in the middle, with the two adjacent teeth reduced in size, and the three were made into a single denture (bridge).
Is there no dentist willing to help treat this situation?
Recently, when I visited a dentist, he told me to go back to the person who made my denture, and regarding the pain in my other tooth, after examining it, he suggested extraction to prevent food from getting stuck.
I agreed, and he first did a quick cleaning.
The cleaning was done so quickly; I had previously experienced much longer cleanings, and I hadn't had a cleaning in over seven years, so it shouldn't have been that fast! After that, I scheduled an appointment for a filling and extraction (he mentioned I had a cavity that needed filling).
He replied that these procedures couldn't be done at the same time and needed to be separated (I thought, since you cleaned my teeth so quickly today, couldn't you just fill the cavity as well?).
Alright, I scheduled the filling for next time!
Then, after getting the filling done, I immediately scheduled the extraction, but he quickly responded that he only extracts teeth for established patients! I was taken aback.
If he had informed me during my first visit that he doesn't extract teeth for new patients, I could have found another dentist to help me with both the filling and extraction! I know that health insurance only covers dental cleanings once every six months, which is frustrating.
Finding someone willing to treat my denture issues might be very difficult.
If I go to another dental office and they suggest a cleaning, how should I respond? Should I tell them I just had a cleaning? They probably won't believe me! Paying out of pocket for a cleaning is very expensive!

Seeing the dentist is like seeing a ghost., 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/16

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If there is pain after getting dentures, it is common for the gum tissue around the edges of the dentures to be inflamed, or the occlusal surface of the dentures may be slightly high.
It is recommended to thoroughly brush the gum tissue around the edges of the dentures to see if the discomfort improves.
If the discomfort persists, consult a dentist for further treatment.
Whether teeth cleaning, filling, or extraction can be performed simultaneously depends on whether the tooth to be extracted is an impacted tooth or a tooth that is difficult to remove, or if the tooth has severe inflammation.
If there is significant inflammation, it is generally advisable to perform teeth cleaning first and wait for the inflammation to improve before scheduling an extraction.

Reply Date: 2018/11/16

More Info

Addressing pain from dentures can be a complex issue, especially when it involves multiple dental problems, as you've described. It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort not only from your dentures but also from other dental issues, such as gum inflammation and potential cavities. Let's break down the situation and explore some possible solutions.

Understanding Your Pain
1. Denture Pain: Dentures can cause pain for several reasons. Over time, the shape of your jawbone can change, which may lead to improper fit and discomfort. If your dentures are not fitting well, they can rub against your gums, leading to soreness and inflammation. Additionally, if you have not had your dentures adjusted in a long time, they may need to be relined or remade to fit your current oral anatomy.

2. Gum Inflammation: The inflammation you mentioned, particularly when food gets stuck, can exacerbate pain. This can lead to a condition known as gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, which can cause further complications.

3. Tooth Sensitivity: The pain you feel when chewing or even drinking water could be due to tooth sensitivity, which can occur if there are cavities or if the enamel has worn down. This sensitivity can also be aggravated by gum disease.

Seeking Solutions
1. Consult a Dentist: It is crucial to find a dentist who is willing to address your concerns comprehensively. While it can be frustrating to hear that you should return to the original dentist who made your dentures, many general dentists can also help with denture adjustments. If your current dentist is not accommodating, consider seeking a second opinion from another dental professional. Look for a dentist who specializes in prosthodontics, as they have specific training in dealing with dentures and related issues.

2. Denture Adjustment: If your dentures are causing pain, they may need to be adjusted. This could involve reshaping the denture base or relining it to ensure a better fit. This process can alleviate discomfort and improve function.

3. Addressing Gum Health: Since you mentioned gum inflammation, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing can help reduce plaque buildup, which contributes to gum disease. Your dentist can also provide a professional cleaning to remove tartar and assess the health of your gums.

4. Managing Tooth Sensitivity: If you have sensitive teeth, your dentist may recommend desensitizing toothpaste or other treatments to help manage this discomfort. It’s also important to address any cavities promptly to prevent further pain.

5. Communication with Your Dentist: When you visit a new dentist, be clear about your previous treatments and current issues. If they suggest a cleaning, you can explain that you just had one and ask if they can focus on your specific concerns instead. Open communication can help ensure that your needs are met without unnecessary procedures.

6. Consider a Dental Specialist: If you continue to have issues with your dentures and surrounding teeth, consider seeing a dental specialist. An oral surgeon or periodontist may provide additional insights and treatment options for your gum health and any necessary extractions.

Conclusion
Navigating dental pain, especially with dentures, can be challenging. It’s important to advocate for your health and seek out a dental professional who will take your concerns seriously. Remember, you deserve to have a comfortable and functional smile. Don't hesitate to explore different dental practices until you find one that meets your needs. Your oral health is vital, and addressing these issues can significantly improve your quality of life.

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