Tips for Adjusting to New Dentures

1. Be patient with yourself

Remember, it’s normal to feel a little off at first. Your muscles, including your lips, cheeks, and tongue, are learning how to work with the new dentures. This can take some time, but with each passing day, your confidence and comfort will grow.

2. Expect some initial discomfort

Your gums need time to heal and your dentures might need a bit of tweaking from your prosthodontist. The first few days can be tough, but keep in mind that any discomfort will likely be addressed in follow up appointments with your prosthodontist and minor issues will subside within a few weeks as your mouth gets used to the new dentures.

3. Start with soft foods

In the early stages, it’s best to stick to soft foods that require less chewing. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, eggs, and soups are ideal choices. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods at first, as these can cause irritation or put unnecessary pressure on your new dentures. As you gain more confidence, you can slowly introduce firmer foods into your diet.

When you get the hang of it, start by cutting your food into smaller pieces and chewing on both sides of your mouth to avoid placing too much pressure on one area. Take your time and don’t rush meals. The more relaxed you are, the easier eating will become.

4. Practice speaking with dentures

Speaking with dentures might feel a little strange at first. You may notice a lisp or feel like your words are coming out differently. The key to overcoming this is practice. Try reading aloud or speaking slowly at first to get comfortable. Over time, your tongue and mouth will adapt to the dentures, and your speech will return to normal

5. Caring for your dentures

Make sure to clean them daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and may scratch the denture. Always remove your dentures at night and soak them in water or a denture solution to keep them moist. This helps prevent warping or cracking, ensuring they last longer.

6. Addressing denture slippage

Prevent slipping by making sure your dentures fit properly. If they feel loose or uncomfortable, it’s important to visit our office for adjustments. Sometimes, you might need to use a denture adhesive for extra security, but don’t rely on adhesives as a long-term solution. A proper fit should be your priority.

7. Dealing with sore spots

If you experience pain or irritation, don’t ignore it. It’s usually a sign that your dentures need adjusting. Over-the-counter gels or creams can provide temporary relief, but it’s best to come see us if sore spots persist. We can adjust the fit of your dentures to help prevent further irritation.

8. Regular visits for denture maintenance

Even after you’ve adjusted to your new dentures, regular visits to your dentist are crucial. Dentures wear down over time, and your mouth changes, so it’s important to have them checked and adjusted regularly. You also will want to have an annual oral cancer screening to check oral tissues to ensure your mouth stays healthy 

If you’re experiencing significant pain or discomfort, or your dentures aren’t fitting properly even after adjustments, don’t hesitate to contact us. It’s essential to address issues as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems. We can make sure your dentures are comfortable and functional for your everyday life.

9. Dentures aren't for everyone...

With all we’ve said so far, there are still very rare circumstances where a patient is simply unable to make the transition to wearing dentures. While incredibly uncommon, it can happen, and in such a situation, implant therapy, where dental implants are used to support the denture to avoid placing pressure on the gums or to retain the denture to keep it from moving, becomes a viable solution to help the patient that simply cannot adjust to wearing a traditional denture.