Hi JT,
The type of partial denture is not specified (e.g., standard denture v standard over denture v fixed over denture), making it a bit difficult to respond to the inquiry.
In general, return to SCUBA depends upon how extensive and complicated the extractions were, how speedily the individual patient recovers and the type of denture used. Given complete healing of the extraction sites, the person should be able to begin diving again once the denture has been properly adjusted and there no longer is any significant discomfort.
The diver with dentures may wish to experiment a little to see what works best in his or her particular case. Some folks with standard dentures find that generous applications of heavy duty denture adhesives do the job.
For others, it is safest and most comfortable to remove the denture for the duration of the dive.
If the diver decides to keep the denture in while diving, a custom mouth piece, such as SeaCURE (
SeaCURE Custom Mouthpiece Table of Contents) or Manta (
Manta Bite, a Revolutionary Scuba Mouthpiece :: Dive with a Manta :: Manta-bite.com), can facilitate safety and comfort.
Given a well-fitted plate and the absence of any dental or jaw abnormality or disease, there should be no discomfort while breathing with a regulator mouthpiece or a snorkel.
Helpful?
Regards,
DocVikingo
This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual, and should not be construed as such.
