Tips for Removing Stuck Upper Dentures
Getting upper dentures stuck while trying to remove them can be frustrating and uncomfortable. But there are several home remedies and techniques you can try to get those pesky top dentures unstuck before resorting to seeing a dentist or using harsh chemicals.
Why Do Dentures Get Stuck?
There are a few common reasons upper dentures become stuck in place including:
- Suction between the roof of your mouth and the denture
- Food or dental adhesive gets trapped under the denture
- Gag reflexes pushing the denture tighter in place
These issues cause a vacuum effect that firmly holds the fake teeth against your gums. But with some simple at-home removal methods, you can release stuck dentures yourself.
Preparing Dentures for Removal
Before trying any at-home denture removal methods for stuck top dentures, take precautions to avoid potential damage or injury:
- Have a clean towel or cloth ready to handle the loose denture
- Fill a bowl with cool water to soak the dentures after removal
- Clear your mouth and throat of food particles thoroughly
- Sit upright at a table or counter in case you cough or gag
Proceeding carefully will allow you to remove the stuck upper denture safely without swallowing or breaking it.
Home Remedies for Dislodging Stuck Dentures
If your upper denture remains firmly stuck, try these useful home remedies to get it unstuck before seeing a dental professional:
Use Dental Adhesive Solvent
Adhesive dissolving tablets or solutions help break the seal formed by denture paste between your gums and the denture. Swish and gently swallow the solution as directed to loosen sticking points and ease denture removal.
Employ Oil to Break Suction
Place a few drops of cooking, olive, sesame or baby oil under your tongue allow it to flow under the denture edges. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes. The oil helps interrupt suction seal for easier how to remove top dentures that are stuck.
Release with Wooden Stool Leg
Use the rounded edge of an old wooden stool leg as a lever tool. Insert gently under upper denture edge and twist slightly to pop loose seal then remove denture carefully with fingers.
Aid Removal with Towels
Place a hot wet washcloth across your cheeks and lips for 1-2 minutes until tissue expands slightly. The damp heat can help shrink tight dentures for removal. You can also try placing a hand towel over your fingers to improve grip on slippery dentures.
Unstick with Dental Floss
Carefully slide lubricated dental floss under problem areas of the denture causing it to stick. Saw back and forth gently to cut through gunk and vacuum seal then remove when dislodged.
Preventing Stuck Dentures from Recurring
To help avoid getting upper dentures frequently stuck in place, follow dentist recommendations for proper denture care and use:
Clean Dentures and Mouth Thoroughly
Use recommended denture soaks and cleansers rather than regular toothpaste which can erode denture material over time. Brush gums and tongue regularly as well to dislodge food debris trapping dentures.
Remove Dentures Properly
Take out and thoroughly rinse upper dentures after every meal. Do not sleep with them in place overnight. Let your mouth rest 8+ hours daily without dentures in to avoid nesting.
Get Regular Denture Adjustments
See your dentist regularly to ensure proper denture fit as gums change shape over time. Ill-fitting top dentures are more likely to get stuck until refitted by a professional.
In most cases, stuck upper dentures can be removed at home with careful, gentle technique using common household items without damage. But severe sticking, splitting or injury may still require seeing an emergency dentist for assistance.
FAQs
What home remedies can help remove stuck upper dentures?
Useful home remedies for stuck top dentures include dental adhesive remover, oils like coconut or olive oil, wooden stool legs for leverage, hot towels to expand tissue, and floss to cut through gunk trapping them.
Why do my top dentures get stuck so frequently?
Frequent sticking is often due to inadequate cleaning allowing food debris to trap the denture. Ill-fitting dentures and sleeping overnight with them can also increase sticking risk until refitted by a dentist.
How can I prevent my upper dentures from getting stuck?
Prevent stuck top dentures by thoroughly brushing gums/tongue daily, removing and cleaning dentures after meals, avoiding sleeping with them in, and getting regular denture adjustments from your dental professional.
When should I see a dentist for stuck upper dentures?
See an emergency dentist if you experience severe pain, swelling, bleeding, splitting/cracking when trying to remove stuck top dentures. Leaving them in place too long can damage oral tissue.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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