Getting new dentures is a significant step toward restoring your smile, your confidence, and your lifestyle. However, the first month with your new prosthetics can be challenging. It’s often a period of adjustment as you learn skills like speaking, eating, and living all over again. But it doesn’t have to blindside you, and there are ways to make it easier! Continue reading to find expert tips to make your first month with dentures as smooth as possible.
Sensations and Speech
When you first get your dentures, they might feel bulky in your mouth which could cause some slight speech impairment. Your gums and jaw need time to adapt to the presence of your prosthetics. So, don’t be alarmed if you suddenly develop a lisp, or have trouble saying certain words.
After a few weeks, these issues should fade away, especially with practice. Try reading aloud or having conversations with trusted friends. The more you speak, the quicker you’ll learn to adapt!
Sore Spots and Irritation
Another aspect of adapting to your dentures is the rubbing you may experience. As you learn to keep your prosthetics in place through muscle control, they may cause friction against your gums. This can create sore spots or even cause minor irritation in certain spots.
However, this is very common and can be soothed with warm salt water, cold compress, and plenty of rest. It’s also important for your oral health to take breaks from wearing your new prosthetics. This is especially true at night, so make sure to take them out before you go to bed.
Eating with Dentures
Eating with new dentures can be challenging initially. To help reduce the difficulty curve, begin with soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups. You can also cut your food into small pieces to make chewing more manageable. In addition, be sure to chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth to keep balance and prevent shifting.
Practice Makes Permanent
Like any skill, dentures take some time to master. They’re not an instant solution for most patients. However, with methodical practice, you’ll see improvements in all aspects of your denture wear much faster.
The first month with new dentures is a time of significant change, but with patience and proper care, you’ll soon feel comfortable and confident. Following these tips is a great start, but if you need more guidance, don’t hesitate to call your dentist. They’ll be happy to help you ensure a smooth transition into your new smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Ali and Dr. Kraipak are friendly and talented dental experts who want to help you smile better! They offer high-quality dental prosthetics and exceptional care at their spa-like practice. If you want to see how comfortable the dentist can be, call (469) 256-7098 to schedule a denture consultation at Plush Dentistry. You can also visit the website to learn all about the services they provide.