Partial dentures are a wonderful solution for those with missing teeth, offering both function and cosmetic benefits. However, while they help restore your smile and improve your ability to chew and speak, partial dentures can sometimes become stuck or difficult to remove. This can be frustrating and concerning, but there are effective techniques to safely remove partial dentures without damaging them or your remaining natural teeth.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through removing stuck partial dentures and provide tips on how to prevent this issue from happening in the future. By following the right steps and understanding the denture removal process, you can feel confident in maintaining your oral health and care routine.
Why Do Partial Dentures Get Stuck?
Before we dive into how to remove stuck partial dentures, it’s helpful to understand why this might happen. Partial dentures are designed to fit snugly around your remaining natural teeth, providing a secure hold. However, several factors can lead to dentures that are stuck, including:
- Denture adhesive: Overuse or excess application of denture adhesive can cause the dentures to stick to the gums or teeth.
- Food particles: Bits of food can become trapped between the partial denture and your gums, creating pressure and causing the denture to become lodged.
- Improper fit: If a dental professional does not properly fit your new partial denture, it might not fit correctly, causing it to get stuck.
- Denture material: Sometimes, the material used to create the partial denture can affect its ease of removal, especially if it warps over time or with use.
- Changes in oral health: Swelling gums or changes in the shape of your gums and remaining natural teeth can make your partial denture more difficult to remove.
How to Safely Remove Partial Dentures That Are Stuck
If you struggle to remove stuck partial dentures, don’t panic. There are several safe and effective methods you can try. Remember, these techniques are meant to loosen the dentures without damaging them or your mouth.
1. Relax and Take Your Time
First and foremost, stay calm. Trying to force removal of dentures can cause harm to both the denture material and your gums. Wearing dentures for the first time can sometimes be challenging, especially when they don’t come off as easily as expected. However, with patience, most dentures can be safely removed with the proper technique.
2. Use Warm Water to Loosen the Dentures
Warm water is one of the easiest and safest ways to loosen stuck dentures. Place a towel or cloth over the sink to prevent damage if the dentures fall. Then, hold the dentures and run warm water over the edges of the partial denture. The warmth can help soften any adhesive or food particles causing the dentures to stick. After a few moments, gently try to remove the partial denture. This method works especially well if denture adhesive is the main issue.
3. Use a Soft Bristled Toothbrush or Denture Brush
To aid in the removal process, you can use a denture brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the edges of the partial denture. Sometimes, food particles or bacteria can cause the dentures to stick. Brushing the denture edge can help remove any debris causing friction and making it harder to remove the denture.
If you’re unsure where to start, focus on the areas where the partial denture connects to your remaining natural teeth. These are often the places where food particles and adhesive can accumulate, making removal difficult.
4. Try Gently Wiggling the Denture
If the partial denture is still stuck, gentle wiggling may help. Place your thumbs on the top part of the denture and gently push in an upward motion. The goal is to loosen the denture without applying too much pressure. If you feel resistance, stop immediately and try a different method. Removing stuck dentures requires patience and steady hands, so be sure not to pull too hard, as this can damage the denture or injure your gums.
5. Use a Cleaning Solution for Stubborn Dentures
If partial dentures remain stuck due to built-up denture adhesive or other substances, a cleaning solution designed for dentures can be helpful. These solutions are formulated to break down adhesives and clean food particles. Soak your partial denture in the cleaning solution for a few minutes and then attempt to remove it again. The solution may soften the adhesive, making it easier to take out.
6. Lubricate the Edges of the Denture
Another way to help loosen partial dentures is by lubricating the edges of the denture material. You can use a small amount of denture paste or even a small amount of petroleum jelly around the edges of the partial denture. This lubrication can help reduce the friction between the denture and your gums or remaining natural teeth. After applying a thin layer, gently try to remove the partial denture.
7. Consult a Dental Professional
If you’ve tried several methods and your partial denture is still stuck, it might be time to consult your dental professional. There could be an underlying issue with the fit of your partial denture, or it may require professional cleaning. A dental prosthetist or dentist regularly can help you with denture removal in a safe and controlled environment.
In some cases, the partial denture may need to be adjusted, especially if it is a new partial denture that was not properly fitted. Your dentist or dental clinic can make necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit, preventing future issues with stuck dentures.
8. Use Proper Denture Care
The best way to avoid stuck dentures in the future is by practicing proper denture care. Keeping your partial denture clean and free from food particles will reduce the chance of it becoming lodged in your mouth. Here are a few tips for maintaining your denture:
- Brush your dentures daily with a denture brush to remove food particles and bacteria.
- Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface of your partial denture. Instead, use a special denture cleaning solution.
- When you’re not wearing your dentures, place them in a container of warm water or denture paste to keep them moist. This helps to maintain their shape and prevent warping.
- Keep your oral health in check by thoroughly cleaning your remaining natural teeth and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups.
9. What to Do if Dentures Are Stuck Overnight
If you’ve attempted to remove dentures and find they are still stuck and you’re unable to see your dentist immediately, try leaving them in a container with warm water overnight. This will help loosen any buildup around the denture edges and soften any hardened adhesive. In the morning, the dentures may come out more easily, allowing you to remove them without force.
10. Avoiding Overuse of Denture Adhesive
Denture adhesive can be useful for keeping your partial denture securely in place, especially if you’re dealing with a new partial denture or have some discomfort from missing teeth. However, overuse of denture adhesive can cause stuck dentures and make the removal process more difficult. Be sure to use only a small amount of adhesive when necessary, and clean it off thoroughly each time you remove the dentures.
Conclusion
Removing stuck partial dentures can be a challenging experience, but by following the right techniques, you can safely and easily solve the problem. Warm water, gentle wiggling, and a denture brush can go a long way in loosening stuck dentures. However, if you are still struggling with removing dentures, don’t hesitate to consult a dental professional who can provide expert assistance. By practicing proper care and cleaning routines for your partial dentures, you can avoid future issues and maintain good oral health.
If you’re unsure about any of these methods or your dentures are still causing discomfort, it’s always best to visit your dentist regularly to ensure your dentures fit correctly and are in good condition.
References
https://www.dentureliving.com/en-us/advice-tips/living-with-dentures/cleaning-maintenance/how-to-remove-dentures
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/310832515_Systems_and_Techniques_for_Removal_of_Failed_Fixed_Partial_Dentures_A_Review
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2015/126257
