Dentures and their benefits are life-changing. However, as with any change, they can take some getting used to, especially if you have been without teeth for many years. The adjustment period will not last forever. Whether you recently received dentures or fear of change has been holding you back, here are some tips for adjusting to life with dentures.
Start With Soft Foods
Eating may be the hardest daily task to adjust to with dentures. Immediately following your treatment, stick to soft foods that will not put too much pressure on your new dentures. Some popular soft foods our patients typically eat are:
- Mashed Potatoes
- Cooked Vegetables
- Eggs
- Pudding
- Beans
- Soup
After a few weeks, you may feel more comfortable trying harder foods. Before you know it, you will be back to eating some of your favorite meals!
Alleviate Pain & Discomfort
Following your denture treatment, you may experience pain, discomfort, and soreness from your tooth extraction or overdenture placement. Your gums may also be sensitive. However, this discomfort will not last forever. Our team of dentists will give you instructions to help alleviate any discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and swelling. Follow the recommended dosage and speak to your dentist if you have concerns. Applying a warm compress to your jaw can also help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Even after your pain or soreness subsides, your dentures may rub or irritate your mouth or cheeks. However, denture adhesive can help keep them in place and prevent them from slipping or moving around.
(If you worry your dentures are too big, contact us to see whether they need a slight adjustment.)
Practice Speaking
Another tip for adjusting to life with braces is to practice speaking. Speaking will feel a little different and perhaps even difficult for some at first because dentures can feel bulky and unfamiliar in your mouth, affecting your ability to enunciate. Your tongue and lips may need to learn how to work together in a new way to form words correctly. But this difficulty will not last forever. Talk to yourself in the mirror, read aloud, or even try counting. With practice and time you can learn to speak more clearly and confidently. Our team can also provide tips and exercises to help you adjust to your new dentures and improve your ability to speak clearly.
Focus on Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is as important when wearing a restoration as it is when caring for your natural teeth. Clean your dentures at least daily to avoid bad breath and prolong the life of your dentures.
Soak your dentures and use a soft-bristled brush to clean any food debris from your day. Avoid using abrasive products that can damage dentures. Do not forget to clean your cheeks, tongue, and the roof of your mouth using a soft brush.
Stay Patient
One of the most important ways to adjust to life with dentures is remembering to stay patient. Adjusting to life with dentures can take time. Be patient, and don’t get discouraged if things don’t go smoothly right away. With practice and time, you will likely become more comfortable and confident wearing your dentures. Plus, you always have a supportive partner in the team here at DICE Dental.
Keep in Touch with Us
Finally, stay in touch with DICE Dental. We are here to assist with any questions or concerns that you have. If you need an adjustment, a fix, or an entirely new denture, DICE Dental is here to help. We offer hard and soft relines, as well as immediate dentures, conventional dentures, partial dentures, and overdentures. Schedule your visit today.