Adjusting to Life With Dentures

Dentures are an effective way to restore your smile. If you’re considering dentures, knowing what to expect can help you transition smoothly. There is an adjustment period for everyone who chooses dentures. You can expect to spend the first few weeks adjusting to life with dentures. With time, you’ll get used to speaking and eating with your new dentures. 

At A Caring Dental Group, Benedict Kim, DDS, helps patients adjust to their dentures every step of the way. Wearing and using dentures feels different from your natural teeth and takes some getting used to. 

Here’s a look at what to expect as you adjust to life with dentures.

Wearing dentures for the first time

If you’ve never worn dentures before they can take some getting used to. The first time wearing any type of denture can be an uncomfortable experience. Traditional dentures fit snugly over your gums. The upper piece also has material covering the roof of your mouth to improve suction.

The more you wear your dentures, the more comfortable and confident you’ll feel. If you’re having trouble with your dentures, you may need to have them adjusted. 

What to expect with dentures

It’s perfectly normal for your gums to feel sore when you first start wearing dentures. You may also notice that you produce more saliva. This effect is temporary and will go away after a short time. Knowing to expect these effects can help you adjust to your dentures. It helps to follow a soft diet for the first few days of wearing your dentures. 

Gradually return to regular eating habits

As the gum soreness resolves, you can return to your usual eating habits. It helps to gradually add potential problem foods like popcorn and nuts. Once you’re comfortable eating other foods, test the waters with more food. 

Take care to check the temperature of hot foods and beverages. 

The following tips can help:

• Chew slowly
• Bite carefully (don’t use your front teeth)
• Chew food on both sides of your mouth

Maintaining even pressure by chewing on both sides can help to keep your dentures stable.

Biting using your front teeth can cause your dentures to shift and move around. 

Within about three weeks of having dentures, most patients start feeling comfortable biting and chewing. 

Keep in mind that hard or sticky foods like candies, nuts, and seeds can be a challenge with dentures. 

Speaking with dentures

You may find it awkward to speak when you wear dentures for the first time. Certain words may sound different or be challenging to say. Practicing by reading out loud and repeating any tricky words is helpful. 

It’s important for your dentures to fit well. If you have trouble saying certain words after the first few weeks with your dentures, talk to your provider. Before long, you’ll feel confident speaking with your new dentures. 

The team at A Caring Dental Group can offer individualized tips and guidance to help you adjust to wearing dentures. If you’d like to discuss dental restoration options, including dentures, call or book online to schedule a visit with Dr. Kim.