Congratulations on your new dentures and an improved, healthier mouth! While you are quickly on the road to returning to your favorite foods and outings, you may also be experiencing some challenges while wearing your new dentures. With a little time, practice, patience and these tips, you’ll adjust to your new dentures in no time!
Practice Makes Perfect
When you wear new dentures, or dentures for the first time, they can feel bulky and uncomfortable. But all it takes is some practice and patience to get comfortable with your new teeth. Wear them all the time at first so that you get used to them (once you are used to them, take them out at night to clean). Start with soft foods and as you get more comfortable, move on to slightly harder foods. Be sure to chew on both sides of your mouth and chew slowly. Try to avoid using your front teeth to bite into foods, especially in the beginning.
You may also have some challenges with speaking. Practice will certainly make it easier. Try reading the newspaper out loud or a book. The more you speak, the more comfortable you will be with how the dentures feel and you will adjust.
Hold ‘em Down
Lower dentures can cause more of a challenge as they don’t feel as stable as upper dentures. They can feel like they are moving around a bit until you have mastered chewing with them. To get comfortable and hold them down, try holding your tongue against the inside front of the lower denture. It’s okay to use adhesives, too. Some people adhere their dentures in just as they comfortable with them, others always use adhesive.
It’s normal to experience some gum soreness and even sore spots when you first start wearing dentures. Simply rinse your mouth and the sore spots with warm salt water. Be sure your dentures fit tightly and securely. If not, return to the office for an adjustment.
The American College of Prosthodontics estimates that at least 178 million Americans are missing teeth and 35 million are missing all of their teeth. Dentures are an excellent solution for missing teeth and to help you return to normal oral function. If you are interested in new dentures or have questions about your current dentures, call Advanced Prosthodontics at (610) 865-4222.