Tips for Getting Used to Dentures

You have plenty of options for replacement teeth, but dentures are the easiest. They don’t require any procedure or other preparation of your mouth. You pop these replacement teeth in place and head into your life with a full smile. 

At least, that’s the case once you adjust to your dentures. But many people report that it takes a little time to get used to their new teeth. Talking and eating, in particular, can feel tricky. 

Fortunately, we don’t just specialize in fitting people with dentures. Gemini Master-Patel, DMD, and our team here at Riverside Dental have extensive experience helping our patients get used to their new teeth. At our offices in Yonkers and Thornwood, New York, we can help you smoothly navigate the learning curve so you can enjoy your new smile with confidence. 

#1: Ensure a comfortable fit

First up, talk with Dr. Master-Patel about how your dentures feel. While these replacement teeth do require some getting used to and might cause minor soreness at first, they should feel mostly comfortable in your mouth. That’s why we make your dentures using 3D panoramic X-rays and intraoral scans. 

The lab customizes your dentures to fit your specific mouth, but they sometimes require some adjustment. If your dentures feel like they’re rubbing or otherwise not fitting well, tell our team. A precise and comfortable fit makes adjusting to your dentures much easier. 

#2: Be ready for extra saliva

It’s normal for saliva production to tick up as your mouth adjusts to your dentures. Eating a piece of candy can help you swallow that extra saliva in a way that feels more natural. 

Make sure you stay on top of your oral hygiene afterward. It’s just as important to keep your mouth clean now that you have dentures.

#3: Start small and soft

As you get used to chewing with your dentures, choosing softer foods helps. Soups, yogurt, smoothies, eggs, and oatmeal are good options in the first few days. 

As you reintroduce foods that require more chewing, take small bites. 

#4: Sing it out

Singing helps your mouth adjust to your dentures faster. Plus, singing along to your favorite songs lets you practice using the muscles in your mouth and cheeks without having to talk to yourself. 

#5: Stick with it

In the early days, it’s tempting to want to take out your dentures, especially if certain activities feel difficult. But talking, eating, and otherwise living your normal life with your dentures helps you adjust to them faster. Keep them in as much as possible and you’ll get past the learning curve quicker. 

Stay in touch with our team in the first few weeks of adjusting to your dentures. Tell us about any difficulties you’re having so we can share tips to help. The information you provide can help us determine if your dentures need an adjustment to fit better, so keep us in the loop. 

For dentures and help adjusting to them, call our Riverside Dental office nearest you or book your appointment online today.