How to Get the Hang of Wearing New Dentures

Settling into a daily routine with new dentures can be challenging, especially when they’re unfamiliar in the mouth. Full or partial dentures, whether conventional or supported by dental implants, involve some sort of adjustment period for most people. The good news is that with patience, guidance from our Orange Park dentist, and a few simple techniques, you can make the experience smoother and more comfortable.

Here’s what you can expect when getting used to wearing dentures.

1. Know It’ll Take Time

Brand new dentures will feel different, and that’s entirely normal. For full dentures, a foreign feeling in the mouth may lead to mild irritation and excess saliva at first. You might even notice changes in your speech or eating habits. However, these adjustments are temporary. Most people find that their mouth begins to adapt within a few weeks, making the dentures feel like a natural extension of their smile.

Partial dentures may feel more secure than full or complete dentures, as they attach to remaining teeth, but they still require an adjustment period as well. Implant-supported dentures, however, typically feel stable from the start thanks to their attachment to dental implants, providing extra stability and reducing slippage.

2. Try to Ease into Eating

Eating with new dentures can take practice. Start with soft foods that are easy to chew, such as soups, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes. Cutting food into smaller pieces also helps, as it puts less pressure on the dentures and reduces the risk of discomfort.

Over time, begin to reintroduce other foods, working up to firmer textures as your comfort level improves. It’s best to avoid sticky or tough foods initially, as these can dislodge the dentures or cause irritation to the gums. With time, your ability to chew and enjoy a range of foods will return.

When enjoying a snack or meal:

• Chew evenly on both sides to prevent tipping.
• Avoid biting into foods with the front teeth until you feel confident in your denture’s stability.
• Take smaller bites and chew slowly.

3. Practice Speaking Slowly

For many, wearing removable dentures affects speech initially, especially with sounds like “s” or “f.” Practice speaking out loud in a comfortable environment to help retrain your mouth and muscles to work with the dentures. For example, reading to yourself, repeating challenging words, or singing a song can be helpful exercises.

Try speaking in front of a mirror if you’re particularly self-conscious—it’s a helpful way to see how your lips and mouth are moving and to make minor adjustments. With a bit of practice, you’ll regain confidence in your speech.

4. Clean Your Dentures Regularly

Daily cleaning of dentures is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing discomfort. Dentures need to be brushed with a soft denture brush and gentle, non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and bacteria. Keeping them clean helps avoid gum irritation and maintains fresh breath.

If you have partial dentures, remember to brush your natural teeth as well, since food particles can lodge between them. Full dentures should be removed at night to allow the gums to rest. When not in use, store dentures in a denture-safe solution or plain water to keep them moist and prevent warping.

5. Anticipate Adjustments and Follow-Ups

Many people require minor adjustments to their new dentures, especially if they notice sore spots or discomfort. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Orange Park, FL, dental office if you experience ongoing pain, as this could mean your dentures need reshaping to fit comfortably. Regular follow-up visits allow for these adjustments and help monitor the health of your gums and any remaining natural teeth.

For those with overdentures, adjustments are generally less frequent since the dentures are more stable. However, regular check-ups are still important to ensure the implants and dentures are functioning as expected.

6. Have Patience and Be Positive

It’s natural to feel frustrated with the adjustment process at times, but staying positive can make the experience more manageable. Many people find that within a few weeks, dentures start feeling natural, allowing them to speak, eat, and smile with ease again.

The goal is to gradually work towards making dentures a comfortable and convenient part of your daily life. Remember, every adjustment you make brings you closer to a new level of comfort and confidence in your smile. So give yourself time, seek assistance when needed, and keep the end goal in mind—enjoying life with a functional, natural-looking smile.

Schedule an Appointment

Our denture dentist in Orange Park serving Greater Jacksonville, FL, is here to be your guide during this new phase of your life. Call Marino Family Dentistry today at (904) 269-2185 to request an appointment if you need us to take a closer look at your dentures or have questions you want to discuss.