Getting new dentures is a big change. At first, they may feel unfamiliar, and you might wonder if you’ll ever get used to them. Losing your teeth can be emotionally difficult, and adjusting to dentures can sometimes add another challenge.
Don’t worry. With time and practice, your new teeth will start to feel natural. Adjusting to new dentures can take a few weeks, but following the right steps can make the process smoother. Our team at Imagine Dental specializes in providing custom tooth replacements, including full and partial dentures in Arizona. We’re here to help you adjust to your renewed smile as quickly as possible!
What It Feels Like to Wear New Dentures for the First Time
When you first put in your dentures, they may feel strange or bulky. Your tongue, cheeks, and lips need time to adjust to your prosthesis. Many people complain of feeling like their mouth is too full, or that they salivate more than usual at first.
You may feel slight soreness or areas of pressure, and may have trouble speaking or eating normally. Your jaw joints and chewing muscles may also feel strained or fatigued at first, especially if you’ve gotten used to a collapsed bite, where your jaw can close too far.
These feelings are normal, but they should improve as your mouth, joints, and muscles adapt. If discomfort lasts longer than expected, or you develop areas of pain or sores, talk to your dentist.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust to New Dentures?
The adjustment period varies for everyone, but most people feel comfortable with their dentures after a few weeks. Here’s what to expect:
- First few days: Soreness and minor irritation are common. Eating and speaking may feel awkward.
- One to two weeks: Discomfort should improve as your gums and muscles start to adapt.
- Three to four weeks: Eating and speaking become easier. Your confidence grows.
- Beyond one month: Your dentures should feel more natural, though minor adjustments may still be needed.
Getting Used to Eating and Speaking with New Dentures
Chewing and talking with dentures takes practice. Start with small adjustments and be patient with yourself as you adjust.
Speaking with New Dentures
One of the first issues you may notice when you try in your dentures in the dental office is that your voice sounds different. You may feel like you are slurring or lisping, or may notice clicking when you speak. You may also notice that your tongue kicks your lower denture out of place.
The more you practice, the faster you’ll be able to speak comfortably with your new dentures. Try reading aloud, talking in front of a mirror, or singing to practice. Swallowing before you start talking can also help seat your dentures and prevent them from shifting when you talk.
Eating with New Dentures
Start slow as you adjust to eating with dentures. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, eggs, and mashed potatoes. Try to use both sides of your mouth evenly to keep your dentures stable.
You can start to introduce more textures to your diet, but traditional dentures will always limit your food choices somewhat. Implant-supported dentures and full mouth dental implants are held securely in place, meaning you can eat more challenging foods like apples, steak, salad, and nuts.
Caring for Your Dentures: Adjusting to a New Routine
Beyond adjusting to the feel and function of your dentures, you’ll also need to adjust to a new routine to take care of them. Taking care of your dentures keeps them in good shape and helps protect your oral health. Build these habits into your daily routine:
- Clean dentures daily. Use a soft brush and denture cleanser—never regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive.
- Soak them overnight. This prevents drying and keeps them from losing their shape. Leaving your denture out overnight also gives your gums a chance to rest and recuperate.
- Brush your gums and tongue. Even if you have no natural teeth left, cleaning your mouth reduces bacteria and bad breath.
- Stay hydrated. Traditional dentures are held in place by suction, which relies on having enough saliva. Dry mouth can compromise the stability of your dentures, especially here in Arizona, where the climate makes it hard to stay hydrated!
- Handle dentures carefully. Hold them over a soft towel or sink filled with water to avoid breaking them if they slip.
Proper care is essential to making your dentures last as long as possible, but it’s also an important way to prevent oral health issues.
Oral thrush is a common issue for denture wearers, caused by a buildup of yeast in the mouth. Cleaning your dentures properly, removing them at night, staying hydrated, and keeping up with regular dental checkups will reduce your risks for this painful issue. If you notice white patches, redness, or discomfort, see your dentist for treatment.
When to Talk to Your Dentist About Adjustments
Your dentures should feel secure and comfortable, but some adjustments may be needed. Contact our team about your dentures in Arizona if:
- Your dentures feel loose or slip when you talk or eat.
- You experience persistent sore spots or pain.
- You have difficulty chewing despite weeks of practice.
- Your bite feels off, or your dentures don’t align properly.
- You develop mouth sores or irritation that won’t go away.
Regular dental visits ensure your dentures fit well and support your overall oral health.
What Not to Do with New Dentures
Adjusting to dentures takes patience, but avoiding these common mistakes can help:
- Don’t try to adjust them yourself. If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, visit your dentist instead of attempting DIY fixes.
- Avoid skipping follow-up appointments. Your dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
- Don’t use too much adhesive. A well-fitting denture shouldn’t require excessive adhesive to stay in place.
- Don’t ignore discomfort. Some soreness is normal, but prolonged pain could mean your dentures need an adjustment.
We’re Here to Help You Enjoy a Better Quality of Life with Comfortable New Dentures
Getting used to new dentures takes time, but don’t get discouraged. With proper care and patience, they will start to feel like a natural part of your daily life. If you have concerns or discomfort, reach out to our team. We can help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Dentures can restore function and beauty to your smile so you can get back to living life to the fullest. Schedule your consultation for custom dentures in Phoenix or Ahwatukee today!
