Tips for Getting Used To New Dentures
There is no doubt about it. When it comes to getting new dentures, there is definitely an adjustment period. The main reason is that you now have a foreign object in your mouth, but the good news is that in time you will barely notice them. In the meantime, you could probably use some tips to help ease the transition.
One aspect of getting new dentures that you may have noticed is that they may rub against your gums when you are eating or talking, depending upon their fit. Most denture wearers find that their mouths adjust to them in time.
How long will my dentures be uncomfortable?
Having some initial discomfort when getting dentures is perfectly normal. You now have a new and different object within your mouth. There may be some rubbing against your gums due to the lack of a perfect fit. If this persists, you can always make an appointment with your dentist to have them adjusted.
One possible cause of discomfort after getting new dentures may occur after you have had some teeth extracted. Bones and gum tissue may be healing during this time, so your dentures may cause you some discomfort until this healing process is complete.
Denture Fit
It is not uncommon for people to experience some looseness with their dentures initially, particularly when they are lower complete dentures. Muscles around the lips, cheeks, and tongue may need time to get used to dentures. Some people find that it helps to keep their dentures in overnight during the first night to help speed up this adjustment period. Just remember to take them out every night after this.
Tips on Eating
Things will certainly feel differently when eating for the first time with dentures. Most people find that it helps to cut their food into smaller pieces at first. Avoid pulling or tearing on food, and resist the temptation to bite using an up-and-down motion with front teeth.
Until your dentures feel more normal to you, it helps to chew with your side and back teeth. A sideways chewing motion may also help. To keep your dentures balanced, it also helps to chew with both sides of your mouth to avoid dislodging them.
During the initial adjustment phase, your diet will likely have changed somewhat, consisting mainly of soups and soft foods. After your tongue, jaw, and mouth have become more comfortable with your new dentures, you can reintroduce some of your favorite foods into your diet.
However, there are still some concessions that you will need to make when wearing dentures. Hard, crunchy foods can damage your dentures, as well as some hot beverages. Sticky foods may also be a concern, as they may dislodge your dentures.
Preventing Denture Problems
Many of the most common problems with dentures can be avoided if you follow these tips:
- Keep your mouth and dentures clean.
- Remove your dentures overnight.
- Follow the instructions of your dentist.
- Visit your dentist for regular checkups.
The Bottom Line
If your new dentures are not increasingly comfortable to you, reach out to your dentist. Keeping up with your regular checkups gives them an opportunity to readjust your dentures when needed, as well as checking in on the health of your gums that support all of your teeth and dentures.
Learning to adjust to new dentures is not always easy. It will take some time to learn how to properly eat and speak when wearing them. Most patients find that if they stick with it, their dentures become more comfortable. The hardest period is the first few days.
