For many people, dentures can be life-changing, restoring confidence in their smile and the ability to eat and speak comfortably. However, getting a new set of dentures can be a big adjustment, especially if you’ve never worn dentures before. Whether you’re getting full or partial dentures, here are some tips and tricks that can help you adjust to your new dentures:
Follow Your Denturist’s Instructions
After receiving your dentures, your denturist will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for them, including how often to wear them, and how to clean them. It is important to follow these instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome for your new dentures.
Be Patient
It’s helpful to remember that getting new dentures is a process that can take some time, and it is important to be patient with yourself during this transition. Don’t be discouraged if you experience some discomfort or difficulty eating or speaking at first. With time and practice, you will become more comfortable and confident with your new dentures!
Practice Wearing Your Dentures
One of the best things you can do to make the adjustment period easier is to practice wearing your dentures as much as possible. This means wearing them while you eat, talk, and go about your daily routine. At first, it may be tempting to take your dentures out whenever they feel uncomfortable, but this will only prolong the adjustment period. Instead, try to keep them in as much as possible, even if it’s just for a few hours at a time.
Practice Speaking
One of the most common challenges patients face when adjusting to new dentures is speaking clearly. You may notice that you have a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain words at first. This is normal and will improve with practice! To help with this, practice speaking slowly and deliberately, and read out loud to get used to the feeling of speaking with your dentures in place. This will help you get used to the feel of your dentures and the way they affect your speech.
Pay Attention To Your Diet
When you first start wearing your new dentures, it is important to stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and soups, as they’re easy to chew and won’t put too much pressure on your dentures. This will help you adjust to the feeling of eating with your dentures and avoid any discomfort or irritation. Avoid hard or sticky foods like nuts, popcorn, and caramel, as they can damage your dentures or cause them to shift out of place.
Keep Your Mouth and Dentures Clean
It is important to keep both your mouth and dentures clean and healthy. Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush and rinse your mouth with mouthwash regularly. Use a soft-bristled brush and a denture cleaner specifically designed for your type of denture. Avoid using regular toothpaste on your dentures, as it can be too abrasive and damage them. You should also avoid using hot water, which can cause your dentures to warp or lose their shape.
Adjusting to your new dentures takes time and patience, but it’s well worth it in the end! With a little practice and these helpful tips, you’ll be speaking, eating, and smiling confidently in no time. At South Calgary Denture, we understand the challenges of adjusting to new dentures and are here to support you every step of the way. Contact our team for a free consultation and we’ll be happy to any questions or concerns you may have!
