New dentures are like getting a new smile: you have the ability to talk more clearly, enjoy your favorite foods again and overall have a healthier, more attractive smile. Getting used to dentures can feel like a challenge at first, but the small amount of discomfort you may feel is far outweighed by the many benefits having a full set of teeth can give you.
Just like many other dental procedures, including braces, a tooth removal or getting veneers, it does take adjusting to get comfortable with your dentures. Here are tips to make the adjustment process much easier and more comfortable for you so you can begin enjoying your new dentures much sooner.
Be Patient
Keep in mind that receiving dentures is a major dental procedure and you will need to allow your gums and mouth time to heal after having teeth pulled and your gums fitted for dentures. The average healing process is around 30 days. You will experience excess saliva, sore spots and mild to moderate discomfort as your swelling goes down in your mouth and your dentures settle.
If your pain worsens within the few weeks after getting your dentures put in or you feel them becoming loose as your gum swelling goes down, talk to your dentist. They can address your dental pain and discomfort to help you feel more comfortable.
Eat Carefully
As your mouth gets used to your dentures, eat foods that don't put a lot of strain or pressure on your dentures and gums. Soft foods, such as pudding, soups, oatmeal and mashed potatoes are easy to consume and don't require a lot of chewing. Chew on both sides of your mouth so your dentures don't slip for more comfortable chewing.
If you are concerned about receiving enough nutrients with your soft foods diet, include protein or nutrition drinks as part of your meal plan until your dentures become more comfortable. Be careful chewing hard foods, such as popcorn or other snacks, as pieces of your food can get stuck in your dentures and cause irritation and your still-healing mouth may find the foods too difficult to chew.
Practice Speaking
You will find that some words or consonants are harder to pronounce than others. Speak softly and practice the words you struggle with regularly to help your tongue get accustomed to your new dentures.
Your dentures may make noise when you talk; if they do, speak with a quieter tone and with a less rapid pace. With time your ability to speak clearly will improve.
Use Adhesives
Denture adhesives are available on the market in strips and gels. These adhesives help your dentures stay in place. As the muscles in your tongue, cheeks and jaw begin to get used to your dentures and allow them to settle, you may find yourself needing to use adhesives less. If you don't know what type of adhesive to use with your dentures, talk to your dentist for a recommendation.
Your dentures will take a few weeks to around a month to get used to. During this time frame you will notice your dentures begin to rest properly in your mouth. With time, you may hardly even notice your dentures at all. Any pain or discomfort should be discussed with your dentist.
Your dentures can help you look and feel younger and more attractive. They will also allow you to feel more confident and be able to eat more foods you love. Our dental team at
Dr. Gregory B. Halls
are able to fit you with quality dentures that will help change your life and oral health for the better.
