According to the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, almost 37 million people wear full dentures. Using full or partial dentures helps restore the ability to smile, eat and speak. These custom prosthetics boost the wearer’s confidence and improve their quality of life. However, as with any change, the initial adjustment may take some time. Your dentist in Inwood Village is here to help with the transition to dentures, keeping your spirits up and your smile wide.
Adjusting to Your New Dentures
New dentures can feel awkward as you adjust to them. During the first few weeks, your dentures may feel loose as the muscles in your tongue and cheeks learn to keep them in place. You may feel a minor soreness of the mouth or gums and your saliva flow will temporarily increase. These issues should lessen within two weeks, allowing you to comfortably and confidently return to your normal routine.
Ways to Transition Easier
Dentures help you resume daily activities such as eating and speaking. There are ways to help make the transition to dentures easier for these actions as well as others:
Eating
When eating with your new dentures, choose soft foods in the first few weeks. Avoid sticky foods and consider cutting your meals into tiny pieces. Take small bites and don’t be afraid to chew as slowly as you need to. Using both sides of your mouth while chewing will prevent your dentures from moving forward or tipping. Being careful and taking your time is the best way to adjust, allowing you to quickly return to eating with ease.
Speaking
Patience is important in your adjustment to speaking with dentures. It may be difficult to say certain words and talking slowly is key. Reading aloud and even singing your words can help you get used to how your dentures feel in your mouth. Gently biting down and swallowing before talking can help place your dentures in a position that allows you to speak more clearly. If you continue to have trouble speaking, consider using a denture adhesive to secure them in place.
Tips for Caring for Your Dentures
Maintaining a proper denture care routine will help with your transition as well as prevent further issues like infections. The following are a few simple ways to keep your new smile healthy:
- Clean your dentures daily, soaking them overnight and brushing them before use
- Clean your mouth and gums by brushing daily before putting your dentures in
- Store your dentures in a cleaning solution or warm water (not too hot)
- Never sleep with your dentures in unless advised to by your dentist
- Handle your dentures with care and don’t use toothpicks
Missing teeth can negatively affect your entire mouth and replacing them is extremely important. Dentures restore not only your smile but your quality of life, allowing you to eat and speak normally again. With some patience and practice, you can adjust to your new dentures with ease, enjoying them for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Davina Prida earned her degree at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, where she graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). She is a member of the Dallas County Dental Society, Texas Dental Association, American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Prida is also a member of the Texas Army National Guard. One of her main focuses is creating beautiful Smiles. She ia a Top Dallas Dentist Providing High Quality Dental Care, General Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, and Reconstructive Dentistry. Dr Davina Prida is fulfilling her vision of bringing the very best in cosmetic dentistry, reconstructive dentistry and general dentistry to Dallas at Inwood Village Dental. Dr. Prida’s approach of dental excellence and her use of advanced techniques, create the most natural, beautiful smiles possible. Dr. Prida is Dallas’ top cosmetic dentist, creating amazing smile makeovers with veneers, dental implants, dental crowns and bridges and Invisalign®. If you have questions about your dental treatment or dental care options, don’t hesitate to contact her at Inwood Village Dental or at (214) 352-2777.