Ways to Help You Get Used to Your New Dentures
When you first get your new dentures, it can be exciting. Dentures can dramatically improve your smile, giving you straight, white teeth free from decay or missing teeth. However, wearing dentures can take some time to get used to. Here are some tips and tricks to make the process easier.
Cut Food into Small Pieces
When you first start wearing dentures, it will take time to adjust to chewing with dentures instead of your natural teeth. Over time, you’ll adjust. In the beginning, it is best to cut food into small pieces so it is easier to chew. If you need help deciding what size is most appropriate, it’s okay to discuss your concerns with your dentist who can give you additional advice.
Wear Only as Much as Recommended
It can be tempting to wear your dentures all day and night to show off your new smile. However, this isn’t recommended, as it doesn’t give your mouth time to heal and adjust. For most patients, wearing dentures for 8 to 10 hours a day is what your dentist will recommend, especially in the beginning.
Stay Hydrated
You may find that your new dentures cause your mouth to be drier than normal or that the dentures are more uncomfortable if you have dry mouth. To prevent discomfort, make sure to stay well hydrated to improve your comfort level. Drinking a lot of water can also help to keep your dentures free from tiny debris that could also cause discomfort.
Practice Talking and Singing
With your natural teeth, you were an expert in how to maneuver your mouth to talk. You had many years to practice. With your dentures, it’s going to take time to once again learn how to speak with dentures in your mouth. Speed up the process by spending a lot of time talking and singing while wearing your dentures.
Use a Dental Adhesive
A dental adhesive is an over the counter product that’s readily available to help keep dentures in their place. You can ask your dentist how to use a dental adhesive, which brand they’d recommend, and whether it’s a good idea for you to use in your particular case. When you first get your dentures, it’s possible that your dentist will go over this information with you anyway. If you have a lot of trouble with keeping your dentures in place after a period of time and your dentist doesn’t recommend dental adhesive, it’s worth checking in with them to ask about it.
Over the years, dentures have come a long way to be more comfortable and to have a better fit. If your dentist recommends dentures to you as a way to improve your oral health, it’s normal to have some questions and concerns. Many patients find that, after a period of adjustment, they actually like their dentures.
Want to Learn More?
If you have questions about dentures or other dental procedures, contact us today at (912) 354-1366 to learn how we can help.
