Wearing dentures for the first time can take some time to get used to. New denture wearers should be careful with their food choices for a few weeks to ensure that their mouths adjust well. Initially, we recommend sticking with liquids and soft foods such as soups, smoothies, puddings, applesauce, and other liquefied food.
When people are ready to move on to solid foods, they should still avoid hard foods that can dislodge dentures or damage them. WebMD recommends cutting foods into small portions and chewing on both sides of the mouth rather than the front teeth. Avoid smoking and drinking staining foods and drinks since dentures can become discolored like natural teeth.
New denture wearers will experience various lifestyle changes as they adjust to and maintain their appliances. People with new dentures will have to learn how to eat and speak again as the mouth muscles get used to the new feeling. It is normal to experience more saliva flow initially; however, this will fade over time as people get used to wearing dentures.
While speaking may also feel strange with dentures, practicing will help. Practicing will train the mouth muscles and build confidence in speaking with dentures. Other lifestyle changes include diet and oral hygiene routines to keep dentures clean and healthy.
Caring for removable dentures is a daily task that will help keep them looking, feeling, and functioning well. People should purchase a nonabrasive toothbrush before getting dentures. Along with always handling them with care, the Mayo Clinic recommends rinsing dentures after eating to remove any food particles and then cleaning one’s mouth with a soft toothbrush or cloth before replacing them.
Denture-wearers should also soak their dentures overnight. Moisture helps dentures retain their shape, so it is essential to soak them overnight. People should purchase a mild solution to soak their dentures in if they choose not to use water. Before placing dentures in the mouth, people should rinse them thoroughly, especially after using a soaking solution. This step is necessary to remove any harmful chemicals used in the solution.
People should set expectations for before and after getting dentures. The best way for people to set realistic expectations and mitigate worries is by educating themselves on life with dentures. While wearing dentures can help people eat more comfortably, speak more clearly, and boost self-confidence, they also require lifestyle changes. Dentures can affect various aspects of daily life, such as diet, speaking, and smiling. Fortunately, most of these changes are positive.
Once people have gotten used to the feeling of dentures in their mouths, they can experience the beneficial impacts on their daily lifestyle. Although new dentures can have many positive impacts on people’s lives, it’s important to remember the positive effects will take time. The first few months will involve a lot of learning and practice, so do not get frustrated when dentures are not perfect immediately. It is important for patients to maintain communication with our team to help ensure their dentures look and feel great.
