Getting Used to New Dentures

New dentures are always a big change for those who get them, especially if it’s the first time. Getting used to new dentures is no different. Since dentures replace your natural teeth, it’s only natural that they’ll take some getting used to before they feel natural and comfortable. The good news is that by knowing what to expect, the adjustment period won’t be as long or uncomfortable as it could be.

If you already have a set of dentures and are thinking about whether to get new dentures, read on.

What to expect

No matter the type of dentures you get, it’s expected that you’ll go through an adjustment stage before your dentures feel natural to you.

At first, it may be difficult to eat and talk normally, especially in the initial few weeks. This is very normal as it will take time for your gums, tongue and mouth to get used to the new setup, so you may encounter some issues early on.

You may experience the following while adjusting to your new dentures:

• Gum irritation
• Sore spots
• Excess saliva – your body might confuse your new dentures for food, causing it to produce more saliva
• Dentures dislodging frequently
• Change in pronunciation

It’s important to remember that minor irritation and soreness during the first few days or weeks is normal, extended intense pain or constant discomfort is not.

If you experience severe and prolonged pain from your dentures, visit your dentist immediately to have it checked.

How long will it take to get used to your dentures?

For the majority of people, it takes close to four weeks to adjust to their new dentures and to feel completely comfortable having them. For those who undergo more comprehensive denture work may require a longer timeframe to recover and get comfortable.

In the first two weeks, it’s common to experience some of the issues stated above. By the third week, any irritation or soreness should have gone down significantly, paving way for you to be able to start talking and eating normally.

After about four weeks, your dentures should feel more natural in your mouth, and you’ll be more confident talking and eating normally again.

Adjusting to your new dentures

Unfortunately you can’t avoid going through the adjustment period after getting a new set of dentures. You can, however, avoid the most common problems and issues by doing the following:

Avoid hard food
“Soft foods first” should be your motto in the first few weeks after your procedure. This will help prevent placing unnecessary pressure on your teeth and gums while getting used to your new dentures.

Cut food into bite size pieces
This will help you avoid using your new dentures to bite through whatever you’re eating.

Avoid sticky food
Sticky food can get caught on your dentures and dislodge them easily.

Talk slowly
This will help you build the strength and familiarity to talk normally with dentures.

Reposition your dentures when they feel loose
Your dentures may feel loose in the first few weeks as your gums and mouth get used to holding them in place. Be patient and reposition them carefully whenever they pop out of place.

Attend follow-up appointments
Attend your follow-up consultations with your dentist so you can make the right adjustments if necessary and ensure everything is progressing properly.

Need More Tips and Advice?

If you want more advice for living with dentures, please schedule an appointment or contact Mathee Dental today.