Getting dentures can be a significant change, often filled with excitement and apprehension. Whether transitioning from natural teeth or replacing a set of older dentures, adapting to wearing new dentures requires patience and strategy. But, with the help of a supportive dental team and a bit of persistence, you can make this a smooth transition.
If you have recently invested in a new pair of dentures and you want to learn more about how to make this transition as easy as possible, keep reading.
1. Understand Your Dentures
Before your new dentures arrive, it is essential to have a clear understanding of what to expect. Your dentist should provide you with information about the type of dentures you’ll receive–full or partial, immediate or conventional–and what care they will require. Familiarizing yourself with how they fit and function will help you feel more prepared when you start wearing them. This information is especially important if you’ve never worn dentures before, as it can help you prepare for this major adjustment.
2. Practice Eating and Speaking
One of the most challenging parts of adjusting to new dentures is learning how to speak and eat comfortably. Start by practicing speaking aloud when you’re at home by reading books or reciting familiar phrases. This can help you adjust to the feeling of your dentures in your mouth. When it comes to eating, begin with soft foods that are easy to chew, including soups, smoothies, yogurts, and mashed potatoes. Gradually work your way up to harder foods are you become more comfortable wearing the dentures.
3. Use Adhesive Wisely
Denture adhesive can help secure your new dentures in place, giving you confidence in the fit. However, it is crucial to use these adhesives correctly. Your dentist should provide you with recommendations on the type and amount of adhesive to use when first wearing your dentures. You can also consult the packaging to ensure you are using it appropriately. If you find that you need to reapply this adhesive frequently, you might want to consider reaching out to your dentist to ensure that your dentures are fitting properly.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Just because you are transitioning to dentures doesn’t mean you can neglect your oral hygiene. Remember to clean your dentures every day to prevent plaque buildup and oral infection. You can clean the prosthetic using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a cleaner designed specifically for dentures. Additionally, continue to care for your gums and any remaining natural teeth by brushing and flossing regularly. This consistent oral care, even while wearing your new dentures, can help you avoid further oral disease and tooth loss.
5. Adjust Your Diet Gradually
As you adjust to your new dentures, it is essential to be mindful of your diet. Chewing with dentures can feel different than chewing with your natural teeth. Start by taking small bites and chewing slowly on both sides of your mouth to maintain balance and avoid discomfort. As you become more accustomed to your dentures, you can gradually incorporate more varied textures and your favorite foods into your everyday meals. It is important that you avoid sticky and hard foods, tough meat, and nuts to prevent damage to the device.
6. Communicate with Your Dentist
While transitioning to new dentures can be difficult, it shouldn’t be overly uncomfortable. If, even after weeks of wearing your dentures, they are still causing persistent discomfort or you’re having difficulty adjusting, reach out to your dentist for support. They can make adjustments to improve the fit or offer additional solutions to enhance your comfort and make this transition smoother. Without proper fit and comfort, you may feel less inclined to wear the device, so make sure to reach out to them if you need extra support.
7. Be Patient with Yourself
The final step in transitioning to new dentures is to be patient with yourself throughout this process. It is normal to feel awkward or uncomfortable in the beginning, especially if this is your first pair of dentures. Over time, your mouth will adapt, and your confidence will grow. Do your best to keep a positive attitude and remind yourself that many others have successfully navigated this transition before you. If you have friends who’ve made the transition, now is a great time to reach out to them for support as well.
Adjust to New Dentures with North View Dental
Working with a reliable dental team as you transition to your new dentures is an essential step in this process. With the appropriate team on your side, you can trust that this will be the smoothest transition possible. If you are looking for a supportive dental team in the North Ogden, Utah, area, turn to our team at North View Dental.
For years, we’ve provided patients with a variety of dental treatments, from twice-yearly cleanings to cosmetic dentistry and everything in between. With this experience, we’re confident that our team can help you transition to a new pair of dentures as well. If you would like to schedule an appointment with our team or if you have questions about denture services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.