Adjusting to new dentures does not only involve wearing them as directed by your dentist, you have to learn how to live with them comfortably. The transition can take time, but with the right approach, you will soon regain confidence in your smile, speech, and daily meals.
While the process varies for everyone, knowing what to expect and how to handle common challenges can make the experience much smoother. If you are feeling unsure about your new set, know that it is completely normal, and with a little patience, removable dentures will soon feel like second nature.
Knowing What’s Normal and What’s Not After the Procedure
The early days of wearing removable dentures can feel unfamiliar. As such, it is common to notice increased saliva production, mild soreness, and even slight speech changes. Your mouth needs time to adjust, just like breaking in a new pair of shoes. Wearing your dentures as instructed by your dentist will help your gums, cheeks, and tongue adapt more quickly.
That said, taking them out at night is equally important. This allows your oral tissues to rest and prevents unnecessary irritation. Some people experience pressure spots where the dentures rub against the gums, if this happens, a visit to your denture specialist can help fine-tune the fit. Ignoring discomfort won’t make it go away, and minor adjustments can make a big difference.
Getting Back to Enjoying Your Meals
Eating might feel a little different at first, but it is nothing you can’t handle with a few simple adjustments. Starting with soft, easy-to-chew foods is the best way to ease into things. Think along the lines of yoghurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, or soups. As your confidence grows, gradually reintroduce firmer foods, taking care to chew slowly and use both sides of your mouth evenly to keep the dentures stable.
Some foods are trickier than others, sticky sweets, tough meats, and crunchy snacks can pose challenges. Cutting food into smaller pieces and opting for cooked rather than raw vegetables can make meals more manageable. Over time, you will get a feel for what works best, and soon enough, eating will feel completely natural again.
Regaining Clear and Confident Speech
Speaking with dentures can feel a little strange at first, but your mouth is incredibly adaptable. Some words might sound different or feel more difficult to pronounce, and you might even experience slight slippage when talking. The good news is that practice makes perfect. Reading aloud, repeating challenging words, or having casual conversations at home can help retrain your tongue and facial muscles.
If you notice your dentures shifting when you speak, a high-quality denture adhesive can provide extra security. It is also helpful to be mindful of how quickly you speak, slowing down slightly can give your mouth time to adjust to forming words with the new dentures in place. With time and patience, speaking will feel completely effortless again.
Keeping Everything Clean and Fresh
Dentures may not be natural teeth, but they still require daily care to stay fresh and functional. Cleaning them properly prevents bacterial buildup, odours, and staining. A non-abrasive denture cleanser and a soft-bristled brush will help remove food particles and plaque without causing damage. It’s also a good habit to rinse them after meals to keep them feeling comfortable throughout the day.
Soaking them overnight in a recommended cleaning solution helps maintain their shape and prevents them from drying out. But don’t forget about your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Gently brushing these areas improves circulation and prevents infections.
Regular check-ups with your dentist ensure your dentures remain in top condition and that any adjustments are made before small issues turn into bigger problems.