Your First Week With Dentures: What It Looks Like
Have you just received your new set of dentures? That’s a big step toward a fuller smile! After dealing with tooth loss, getting dentures can make a huge change. At the same time, wearing dentures for the first time can be somewhat overwhelming. This feeling improves as your mouth adapts.
Keep reading to find out what you can expect during your first week with dentures and how to make it more comfortable.
What It Feels Like to Wear Dentures for the First Time
When you start wearing dentures, it’s going to feel a little strange for a few days. That’s understandable because you have a new appliance in your mouth. The first week with your dentures is all about adjusting to the appliance and getting used to the feel of it.
You may feel bulkiness in your mouth. This is especially common if you have complete dentures. Some first-time denture wearers also feel slight soreness or pressure on their gums.
You may also notice that your mouth is producing more saliva than usual. These are all perfectly normal changes for those who are just getting started with denture wear.
Eating With Your New Dentures
Eating with your new dentures is something you may be eager to try. They want to know what it would feel like to eat with this new appliance. You can’t jump straight to foods like hamburgers or steaks during your first week with dentures. Start with soft foods.
Think of options like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, boiled or steamed vegetables, and soft fruits like bananas. Take small bites.
You don’t want to put too much biting pressure on your new teeth right away. Eating soft foods gives your oral tissues some time to adjust.
Then introduce your routine foods gradually. See which ones you can eat easily and which ones are causing discomfort.
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Speech Changes During the First Few Days
Expect some changes in the way you talk or pronounce some words. You may develop a lisp for a short time. First-time denture wearers may especially find it a little challenging to pronounce words with “s”, “th”, and “f” sounds. It’s all part of the adjustment period.
Many patients find reading aloud very helpful. Try some fun tongue twisters too! They can help train your tongue and facial muscles.
Keeping Your New Dentures Clean
Your oral hygiene routine is going to change a little after getting dentures. Take them out of your mouth after meals and give them a good rinse.
Next comes brushing. Avoid abrasive toothpaste and harsh cleaning products, which can scratch or damage dentures. Use a denture cleanser or another cleaning product recommended by your dentist.
Also, don’t sleep with dentures in your mouth. You’ll have to remove your dentures every night and soak them in plain water or a specific solution.
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In Short
Every first-time denture wearer has a different experience. But nearly everyone has that unfamiliar feeling at first. It’s perfectly normal. With some practice and care, you’ll find yourself talking and eating comfortably with them.
If you’re adapting to wearing a denture or considering getting one, visit our prosthodontist, Dr. Anna Karina Thorn, at Hallmark Prosthodontics today. Make your appointment by calling us at (281) 223-1132.