4 Tips for Adjusting to New Dentures

4 Tips for Adjusting to New Dentures from Alexandria Old Town Dental in Alexandria, VADentures are a popular solution for individuals who are missing any number of natural teeth. These prosthetic teeth can dramatically improve oral function and appearance, though first-time wearers report various challenges adjusting to new dentures that dentists can address.

What do most new denture wearers typically experience?

Most new denture wearers require about one month to adjust to the sensations accompanying a foreign substance in the mouth. Common symptoms that most people experience include:

  • Changed facial expressions
  • Difficulty speaking and eating
  • Excessive saliva production
  • Gum and oral tissue irritation

What are some tips for adjusting to new dentures?

Most people eventually adjust to wearing dentures. Still, although most uncomfortable symptoms resolve naturally, dentists can offer four helpful tips to help patients manage those that pose the most significant frustration.

1. Read and sing aloud

Many new denture wearers are unable to pronounce words they previously mastered. For example, words with specific letters may be particularly challenging because dentures sit in the mouth differently than natural teeth, interfering with the tongue's placement while speaking. Eventually, the mouth repositions naturally, but dentists recommend reading aloud to help patients become conscious of the adjustments necessary to produce various sounds. Singing is also helpful because it promotes slow enunciation that allows the mouth to sustain correct positioning.

2. Exercise facial muscles

Dental patients often exhibit unwanted facial expressions while adjusting to new dentures. Facial movements may change when the muscles and lips attempt to reposition around prosthetic teeth. Also, new dentures necessitate using different facial muscles than those that move around natural teeth. Activating new muscles can be strenuous and promote hypersalivation along with unusual facial expressions. Dentists may recommend exercises to strengthen the cheek muscles, even before installing dentures. Doing so helps prevent exaggerated facial movements as patients strain to use weak or previously dormant muscles while speaking or eating.

3. Stay hydrated

Anyone who wears dentures for the first time may experience some mouth soreness during the adjustment period. Although severe discomfort may indicate the need to resize poorly fitting dentures, most soreness resolves quickly as patients naturally avoid movements that cause friction. Still, it is advisable to address oral abrasions promptly. Dentists also recommend drinking lots of water to hydrate the mouth and prevent dryness that makes delicate oral tissue susceptible to damage. In addition to relieving tender spots in the mouth, adequate hydration discourages the growth of oral bacteria, which can compromise dentures and lead to gum disease.

4. Plan meals

Dentures primarily function to improve chewing ability, but many new wearers find that eating is challenging. Dentists advise patients to eat soft, room-temperature foods like eggs and yogurt and avoid hard and sticky foods, like apples and candy, immediately after receiving new dentures to reduce the chewing force that irritates sensitive gums. Also, choosing food-softening cooking methods like steaming, and cutting food into small bites to chew using both sides of the mouth, can help patients transition to eating solid foods.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Adjusting to New Dentures in Alexandria, VA

Conclusion

Anyone adjusting to new dentures should know that some discomfort is normal, but it is not permanent. A dentist can offer helpful tips to ensure that anyone who wears dentures has a positive experience.

Request an appointment or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at 703-763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.

Related Posts

Timeline For Adjusting To New Dentures

Individuals who have missing teeth or other dental issues often choose new dentures as a way to resolve these problems and improve the ability to eat and speak properly. Today’s dental technology has made most dentures simple to install and comfortable to wear; however, those who are new to the experience may wonder how long…

How To Properly Chew Food While Adjusting To New Dentures

Getting new dentures can be a simultaneously exciting and daunting process. Although adjusting to new dentures takes some time and work, patients can immediately begin to enjoy the positive results of a full smile and a more rounded-out face. However, some aspects of adjustment may require a bit more practice. Chewing becomes somewhat different with…

Adjusting To New Dentures: Changing Your Eating Habits

In addition to recognizing the new person in the mirror, adjusting to new dentures requires changing some of a person’s former eating habits. Having a full set of great-looking teeth can give one’s confidence a significant boost, but after spending a considerable amount of time without teeth, it can take a little while to learn…

Related Posts

When To Bring Your Child To See A General Dentist

When To Bring Your Child To See A General Dentist

Regular visits to the general dentistry office are essential for both adults and children alike. As a parent, you may have a lot of questions regarding dental appointments for your child. Knowing when to take your child to their first general dentistry appointment and what to expect from that appointment can help you prepare adequately.If…

What Are The Different Types Of Dental Veneers?

What Are The Different Types Of Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers can improve your dental health. Your dentist can present many types of this dental restoration. Understanding the types of veneers available can broaden your options. Here are the different types of dental veneers that you must consider.These are the most common types of dental veneers. The material in these restorations is feldspar, which…