The process of getting dentures is pretty straightforward and simple when it comes to tooth replacement. But what should you expect once they are in place? Our Langley dentists discuss what to expect when adjusting to new dentures and how to make yourself more comfortable.
What to Expect
If you're hoping to feel more confident in your grin while restoring your smile, dentures may help. They can also support facial muscles and structure and reduce bone loss.
While dentures can be a great long-term solution for some people who are missing teeth, adjusting to them can take some time and effort.
It usually takes people anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks to fully adjust to wearing dentures.
Be gentle with your mouth as it adjusts to these major changes and you get used to wearing dentures in place of your natural teeth. Making the transition easier can be accomplished by being aware of what to anticipate.
Common Complaints
Some patients notice these challenges during the early stages of wearing dentures:
- Gums may loosen or shrink
- Sore spots and bone chips may develop
- Smile seems unnatural
- Problems eating or speaking while wearing dentures
- Higher production of saliva
- Impact on chewing
Remember that these issues are a natural part of the dental process, and most will be temporary.
Tips for Adjusting to Dentures
In the first few days or weeks, you might notice that your dentures feel a little strange and out of place. Some of your biggest obstacles may be related to changes in eating and speaking during this time. Here are some advice that could be useful.
Eating
After getting new dentures, you'll need to start by eating a diet high in soft or liquid foods. You'll have dietary restrictions during the first few days of your recovery process. If you know you'll get hungry, you might want to prepare some food in advance. For the best results in reducing pain or discomfort, try to select foods that won't require much chewing.
You might also consider using a food processor, blender or juicer to eat some of your favourite foods during this time.
Use this list to give you some ideas during the first few days or weeks:
- Avocadoes
- Rice
- Smoothies
- Cooked or steamed vegetables that have softened
- Pasta
- Oatmeal
- Milkshakes or icecream
- Soups
- Soft or melted cheeses
- Tofu
- Eggs
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Muffins
- Pancakes
Speaking
Similar to eating, you may find it awkward to speak for the first few weeks. That said, you can practice starting regaining confidence and comfort when you talk in public.
It might help to speak slower than usual, which can reduce clicking noises and assist with controlling movement that may occur if your dentures shift as you talk. You may find that applying denture adhesive helps to keep your dentures in place. Ask your Langley dentist if this solution is right for you.
You may find it beneficial to read aloud to yourself while practising, especially during the first few days when you may feel self-conscious speaking in front of others. This allows you to adapt and relearn difficult sounds without the distraction of an audience. The more practice opportunities you take, the easier and more natural speaking will become, quickly assisting you in feeling confident with your new dentures.