If you’ve suffered from tooth loss, you know how challenging it can be to complete daily tasks. When it comes to chewing your food thoroughly, speaking clearly, and smiling with confidence, having missing teeth can be very difficult. Fortunately, dentures are a life-changing tooth replacement option. However, just like all new things, they take some time to get used to. Here are some tips that can help you adjust to your new smile!
Speaking with Dentures
It can be frustrating when you first try to speak with dentures because your mouth and tongue aren’t used to them being there. However, this will change quickly. A great way to speed up the process of talking with your dentures is to read aloud. This way, you can practice a variety of unique sounds so your mouth can adjust to your new teeth. You will be talking away in no time!
Chewing with Dentures
Learning to eat with your dentures can take some time to get used to. Your new dentures will restore your jaw to its correct position and reestablish your original facial dimensions. Ultimately, this makes it easier to chew. If you are learning to eat with dentures for the first time, try carefully cutting up your food into smaller bites. This way, you can adapt. Don’t attempt to eat crunchy, tough, or stringy foods until you have more practice. You should chew on both the right and left sides of your mouth simultaneously and avoid biting down on pieces of food using your front teeth.
Combatting Soreness
When you first get your new dentures, it isn’t uncommon to experience some soreness. This is because dentures can put pressure on new regions of your gums. Fortunately, this should subside after just a few days. If discomfort does not go away, give your dentist a call to let them know what’s going on.
Denture Wear Time
It is recommended that patients with new dentures should leave them in at all times for the first 24-48 hours. They should only be taken out for cleaning. After this, your dentures should be removed at night when you go to sleep. This allows for increased circulation to the gum tissue and gives them a break.
Dentures take some getting used to, but don’t be discouraged right away. With just a short adjustment period and a little bit of practice, you will be wearing your new smile with pride!
About the Author
Dr. Priya Chougule is an experienced dentist who has been practicing for over 15 years! She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Connecticut and is a proud member of the American Dental Association, South Carolina Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and Spear Education. For more information on dentures or to schedule an appointment at her office in Fort Mill, visit her website or call (803) 548-3342.