When it comes to replacing missing teeth, millions of Americans turn to dentures for a time-tested solution that can help restore their smile, bite balance, confidence, and quality of life.
But while dentures are definitely effective in meeting all these goals, they still take a little getting used to. Knowing what to expect — and how to hasten the adjustment period — helps relieve any anxiety you might be feeling.
As a leading provider of state-of-the-art dentures, Minal Patel, DDS, wants patients at Park Place Smiles to get the most from their denture-wearing experience. In this post, we offer a quick overview of the adjustment period, along with a few tips to help you get used to your new dentures quickly.
Today’s dentures are made of lightweight, durable materials to make them long-lasting and exceptionally comfortable. Still, when you first get your dentures, it’s not uncommon to feel a little awkward when you’re speaking and eating.
While dentures are designed to fit snugly, even without adhesives, the pressure on your gums and the general feeling of “something” in your mouth might feel like you’re learning how to talk and eat all over again. The good news is adjusting to new dentures is actually simpler and faster than you might think when you first slip them in.
Like any new habit, learning to eat and speak with dentures takes a little practice. Fortunately, you can take steps to help you get used to how your dentures feel and function, giving you the confidence you need.
It’s probably not a good idea to attend your class reunion or give a wedding speech within the first few days of denture wear. But most people are surprised how quickly they adapt to speaking "normally," despite a few initial missteps.
Read whatever’s on hand — books, news articles, comic books, cereal boxes — it doesn’t matter, as long as you do it regularly and practice out loud. Because dentures can feel a little bulky at first, many people read in front of a mirror so they can feel confident about how they look while speaking, too.
If you’re healing from extractions, you’ll probably stick to soft foods for a while. Over time, you can introduce a variety of foods slowly to give your mouth time to adjust to a variety of textures.
Eating at home is a good idea during the initial days of denture wear. You should also avoid really sticky or hard foods that can lead to soreness and slippage, at least in the initial stage of adjustment.
Some people assume that wearing dentures 24/7 will speed up the adjustment process, but that’s not so. Wearing beyond the recommended amount of time per day can lead to sore spots and delay your progress in getting used to your dentures.
Instead, wear your dentures exactly as directed to adjust as quickly as possible. Always remove them before bed, and place them in their container for safekeeping.
Dentures are custom-fitted to sit snugly on your gums, but it's not uncommon to feel a little insecure about slippage at first. Denture adhesive provides added stability that can help you feel more confident right from the start.
Use adhesives sparingly, and be sure to remove all residue when you clean your dentures before bed. If your dentures still feel loose or uncomfortable despite using adhesive, call the office to schedule an adjustment so we can improve the way they fit.
Dentures can’t decay like natural teeth, but they still require consistent care and regular cleaning. Setting up a routine right from the start makes caring for your dentures a lot simpler.
In brief, rinse your dentures after meals and snacks to remove residue and prevent stains and discomfort from stuck-on food particles. Brush your dentures thoroughly every night using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a nonabrasive paste. Then soak them overnight in water or a product designed specifically for dentures.
Adjusting to dentures is definitely a new experience, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Be patient with yourself, and before you know it, you’ll hardly know you’re wearing them.
To learn more about dentures and how they can improve your oral health and confidence, book an appointment online or over the phone with Park Place Smiles in Glendora, California, today.
