What to Expect When Wearing Dentures for the First Time?
Wearing dentures for the first time can be a life-changing experience, whether you’ve lost teeth due to age, injury, or other reasons. While dentures can greatly improve your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence, the transition period can be challenging as you adjust to this new dental solution. Here’s what you can expect when wearing dentures for the first time and tips for making the experience smoother.
Initial Discomfort and Adjustment
It’s completely normal to experience some discomfort during the first few days or weeks of wearing dentures. The feeling of something foreign in your mouth, especially if you’re used to not having teeth, can take time to get used to. You may feel that your dentures are bulky or even notice pressure points in your gums.
What to do: Start by wearing your dentures for a few hours each day to allow your mouth to adapt gradually. Avoid wearing them for extended periods initially. If you experience pain or irritation, visit your denturist who can adjust the fit of your dentures to alleviate discomfort.
Difficulty Eating and Chewing
In the beginning, chewing with dentures might feel different than it did with natural teeth. Dentures have no feeling in them, so now your gums have to figure out where the food is and how to direct the denture teeth. It may take some time before you’re able to eat with the same ease. Certain foods might be challenging, and you might notice that your dentures shift or feel unstable when you bite down.
What to do: Begin with soft foods that are easier to chew, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups. Cut your food into small pieces, and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth to maintain balance. Avoid sticky or hard foods until you feel more confident with your dentures.
Speech Changes
You might find that speaking clearly with dentures takes some practice, especially if you’re not accustomed to having something in your mouth. Certain sounds, like “s” or “f,” may feel awkward at first, and you might experience a lisp or difficulty pronouncing words.
What to do: Practice speaking in front of a mirror, reading aloud, or having conversations with close family and friends. Over time, your mouth will adapt, and your speech should return to normal as you become more comfortable with the dentures.
Excess Saliva Production
When you first start wearing dentures, your body may produce more saliva than usual. This is a common reaction as your mouth adjusts to the new foreign object. It can feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s usually temporary.
What to do: Be patient, as your mouth will eventually adjust to the dentures, and saliva production will return to normal. In the meantime, try swallowing more frequently to manage the extra saliva. If it’s a persistent issue, talk to your dentist about possible solutions.
Possible Gagging
Some people experience a sensation of gagging when they first wear dentures. This happens because the dentures may feel like they are too large or may touch the back of your throat. It can be particularly unsettling, but it is usually temporary as your body becomes accustomed to the dentures.
What to do: If gagging continues, consult with your dentist, who may be able to adjust the fit of your dentures. Over time, as your confidence and comfort grow, gagging should lessen.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Wearing dentures doesn’t mean you can skip your oral hygiene routine. In fact, it’s crucial to clean your dentures daily to avoid plaque buildup and ensure they remain in good condition. Failing to clean your dentures can also cause bad breath and increase your risk of oral infections or irritation in your gums.
What to do: Clean your dentures every night using a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner. Soak them overnight to keep them moist and prevent warping. Remember to clean your mouth and gums, too, using a soft toothbrush to maintain oral health.
Regular Check-ups and Adjustments
In the first few weeks or months of wearing dentures, you’ll likely need to return to your denturist for follow-up appointments. During these visits, your denturist will check the fit of your dentures, make adjustments, and address any concerns you have about comfort or functionality.
What to do: Don’t hesitate to contact your denturist if you experience pain, discomfort, or if your dentures begin to feel loose or unstable. With proper adjustments, your dentures should fit more comfortably over time.
Conclusion
The transition to wearing dentures for the first time requires patience and persistence. While initial discomfort, speech changes, and challenges with eating are common, they are typically temporary hurdles that will subside as you adjust. With time, your dentures will become an integral part of your daily life, helping you smile, eat, and speak with confidence. Be patient, follow your denturist’s advice, and with practice, you’ll quickly find that dentures offer a new level of comfort and functionality.
For those considering denture solutions or needing expert dental care, contact us at:
- Name: A Dental Office
- Address: 181 Livingstone St. East, Suite 8 Barrie, ON, L4M 6Z4 Canada
- Phone: 1 705 726 3567
- Email: admin@adentaloffice.com
- Website: www.adentaloffice.ca
Schedule your appointment today for Denture Solutions!
