Now that you’ve received your brand-new dentures, you’re likely excited to enjoy your fully restored smile and bite. However, it can take some time to get used to your prosthetics, as your gum line will need to get accustomed. According to many patients, the first month with dentures can be particularly challenging. To help create a smoother transition, here are a few helpful tips for learning to use your new pearly whites.
Talking with Dentures
Although your dentures will be specifically designed to fit your unique mouth, speaking with them can often take some time when first wearing them. Not only will you need to learn how to move with the prosthetics in, but your gums might also experience some soreness or irritation. You may also produce excess saliva, which can make talking with dentures difficult. This simply means you’ll need to pause a moment to swallow it before speaking again. The more you practice, such as reading a book or magazine aloud, the more natural your prosthetics will feel in your mouth.
Eating with Dentures
One of the most important ways to use your dentures is to eat your meals. That said, it can also take some time and practice to get a handle on it. If you aren’t careful, you can end up hurting yourself or having them slip off. Instead of trying to munch on hard or crunchy foods, be sure to stick with softer meals, such as mashed potatoes, eggs, and yogurt to get used to your dentures. The better you get at maneuvering food in your mouth, the less likely you are to accidentally scrape your gums or bite your tongue. Make sure to also chew on all sides of your mouth, that way the pressure distributes evenly.
Taking Care of Your Dentures
Though you might not have some or all of your teeth anymore, you’ll still need to practice good oral hygiene every day. The last thing you’ll want is to develop an infection in the gums, which can affect the fit and feel of your dentures. Be sure to brush and rinse your prosthetics regularly, and soak them in a cup of water overnight to keep them bacteria-free. You’ll also need to visit your dentist at least twice a year, as they may need to adjust your dentures to ensure a proper fit.
While wearing your dentures can take some getting used to, the process doesn’t have to be painstaking. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be free to eat and speak like before in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Adam Danzig has been providing exceptional and caring dental treatments for well over a decade. He studied at the New York University College of Dentistry, undergoes advanced training through continuing education, and is a member of the American Dental Association and Massachusetts Dental Society. If you’d like to know more about handling your new dentures or want to schedule a consultation, feel free to visit his website or call him at 978-924-8918.