What Your Dentist Wants You to Know About Adjusting to New Dentures

Adjusting to new dentures can take a few weeks, but once a patient has adjusted, it is easier to eat and smile with confidence. For those who have had tooth loss corrected through dentures, it can take some time before things feel normal inside the mouth. Dentures feel and function differently than natural teeth. They often irritate the gums and leave wearers struggling to figure out how to adjust. Before getting overwhelmed with the different feelings that dentures present when speaking or eating, remember this advice from a dentist.

Discomfort will be normal

Many assume that the pain, irritation, and discomfort felt in the early days and weeks of wearing new dentures is not normal. It can take an average of 30 days before fully adjusting to the sensations and pressure of wearing new dentures, and it is important not to rush trying to get back to normal. The soft tissues and gums need to get used to the feeling of constant contact with the base of the dental appliance. Even though there is a layer of protective cushioning on the bottom of the dentures, there may be some discomfort when chewing or speaking.

The gums will need time to heal, and the jawbone will learn to adjust to eating without deep bone pressure. However, as there are no teeth to continually stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss, the jawbone will eventually shift position, and discomfort can result. This is why dentures may periodically need to be adjusted by a dentist.

Readjust as necessary

Your mouth has to become accustomed to holding the dentures into place. The prosthetics may feel loose in the first several weeks. In fact, you may find that they pop out of place now and then. Stay patient with the dentures and remind yourself that this phase will not last. Instead, just reposition with care and carry about your day. Do not forget to attend your follow-up appointments to ensure that you do not need further adjustments.

Alleviate pain and discomfort

While discomfort is normal when you have dentures for the first time, there are methods to alleviate the pain and discomfort. Give your gums a massage to increase blood flow to the area. As circulation increases, swelling decreases. Whenever you remove the dentures, swish warm salt water in your mouth. Not only does salt water reduce inflammation, but it can reduce soreness too. There are also topical creams available to relieve soreness. To help soothe the gums, apply aloe vera to the dentures.

Dietary habits need to change

In addition to adjusting to new dentures by knowing what to expect, it is important to understand the impact dietary choices may have on the adjustment process. The new equipment may cause some embarrassment or frustration, as it is possible to accidentally scrape the gums, bite the tongue, or pop the dentures out of the mouth while learning how to chew with the false teeth. It may be helpful to practice at home until a level of confidence has been developed. A dentist may also make the following recommendations in order to make things more comfortable during the transition period.

Select soft foods

To give the mouth an opportunity to move the mouth comfortably with new teeth, start with soft foods. Foods like pudding, applesauce, or mashed potatoes will not put too much pressure on the gums, which allows them to heal while the mouth and jaw get into the routine of eating with dentures in place. While soups and broth are soft foods, dentures can make the gums more sensitive to hot and cold sensations and should be eaten carefully.

Bite carefully

Use small bites when advancing to tougher foods. A safe practice is to start chewing with the back teeth rather than the front teeth. Biting into the wrong foods with the front teeth can cause the dentures to shift across the back teeth. Small, bite-sized pieces in the back of the mouth or along the sides put more even pressure on the jaws and dentures.

Conclusion

Dentures do function similarly to your natural teeth. However, there is still a learning curve. Understanding that there is a period of adjustment can help you remain patient and stick with the process. These tips for adjusting to new dentures can spare a patient from extreme discomfort or worry. For more help with denture-related concerns, schedule an appointment with a dentist.

Request an appointment here: https://www.alluredentistry.com or call Allure Dentistry at (310) 683-5321 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures and Partial Dentures in Los Angeles, CA.

Recent Posts

What Questions You Should Ask Your Dentist About Adjusting To New Dentures

Dentures can restore normalcy to the functions of chewing and eating, but for first-time wearers, there is a period spent adjusting to new dentures. By asking a dentist about this transitionary period, it is possible to minimize the discomfort and awkward mishaps that often accompany getting used to a new dental appliance. In addition, dealing…

Taking A Look At Options For New Dentures

There are multiple denture options if you are looking to replace missing teeth. These solutions can help prevent many unwanted side effects of tooth loss, leading to better oral and overall health.The loss of permanent teeth can happen for various reasons, from severe tooth decay and gum disease to traumatic injuries or underlying health conditions.…

What Can You Eat With Dentures?

When you have dentures, you no longer have to hide your smile or avoid being around other people. This treatment can also improve your oral health and allow you to eat a wider range of foods.Of course, wearing this apparatus does not let you eat anything. There are still certain foods you should avoid, so…

Can Others Tell If You Have Dentures?

If you have missing teeth, dentures can enhance your smile and boost your self-esteem. Dentists can provide comfortable dentures that may give you a stable bite and a natural look.But after getting dentures, you have to take proper care of them to keep them white and healthy. Read on to find out more about the…

Allure Dentistry

Share
Published by
Allure Dentistry

Recent Posts

Importance of Teeth Cleanings for Routine Dental Care

Professional teeth cleaning is an important aspect of routine dental care. In addition to practicing…

6 days ago

Dentist Near Me: Comprehensive Care for Oral Health

Looking for a dentist who practices comprehensive oral care can be daunting. But finding the…

1 week ago

How To Fit Routine Dental Care Into Your Schedule

Many people may believe that they do not have time for routine dental care, which…

2 weeks ago

How Often Do I Need Routine Dental Care

Routine dental care is one of the most important factors contributing to good dental health.…

3 weeks ago

Safety of Teeth Whitening

Many people undergo teeth whitening procedures to make their smile look healthier and to increase…

3 weeks ago

Tips for Daily Oral Hygiene Before Your Next Routine Dental Care Visit

Regular visits to the dentist for routine dental care are an important part of maintaining…

1 month ago