Missing teeth can significantly impact one’s ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Dentures are a common solution for those seeking to restore their dental function and appearance. Although dentures have advantages, it can be tough and uncomfortable for some people to adapt to them.
If you’re new to dentures or planning to get them, this blog post will explain how long it takes to feel normal. Additionally, it will offer tips and advice on how to make the process smoother.
Common Challenges During the Adjustment Period
Adjusting to dentures can take some time, and it’s normal to experience some challenges during the adjustment period. Here are common issues you may encounter while getting used to your new dentures:
- Difficulty eating and speaking typically, especially in the first few weeks
- Gum irritation and sore spots
- Excess saliva production as your body adjusts to the new dentures
- Dentures frequently become dislodged
- Pronunciation changes
Minor discomfort is normal, but you should consult your dentist if you experience severe or constant pain.
9 Tips and Advice to Ease the Adjustment Period Easier
Here are some tips and advice to help make the adjustment period easier for you:
1. Be Prepared for Discomfort
When adjusting to new dentures, you must be prepared for discomfort. Your mouth may feel sore or tender for a few days after the initial placement or adjustment.
To ease the discomfort, you can do the following advice:
- Use over-the-counter pain medication
- Apply a warm or cold compress
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
Follow your orthodontist’s instructions for maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing dentures.
2. Begin with Soft Foods
It’s recommended to begin with soft foods to avoid putting too much pressure on the dentures or aligners.
Foods such as those stated below are good options:
- Soups
- Smoothies
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Yoghurt
As the discomfort subsides and your mouth adjusts to the dentures, you can gradually introduce firmer foods into your diet.
3. Take Small Bites
Taking small bites is another way to avoid putting too much pressure on the braces or aligners. Cut your food into smaller pieces and chew slowly and carefully. This will not only help you avoid discomfort but also aid in the digestion process.
4. Avoid Biting with Your Front Teeth
Biting with your front teeth can put unnecessary pressure on the braces or aligners, leading to discomfort or damage.
Instead, try to bite and chew with your back teeth or molars. This will distribute the pressure evenly and reduce the risk of discomfort or damage.
5. Steer Clear of Certain Foods
These include hard or sticky foods such as popcorn, nuts, candy, and gum. Also, avoid biting into foods such as apples or corn on the cob, which can cause dentures to break loose or break. Stick to softer foods or cut harder foods into smaller pieces to reduce the risk of damage.
6. Say No to Sticky Foods
Sticky foods can get stuck in your dentures, making them difficult to clean and potentially causing damage to it.
Eating sticky foods can also raise the chances of developing cavities and gum issues. Instead, opt for softer foods and cut fruits and vegetables into small pieces to make them easier to chew.
7. Speak Slowly
If you wear dentures, adjusting to speaking with them may take some time. Try speaking slowly and clearly, enunciating your words to make the adjustment easier.
It will help you get used to the feeling of the dentures in your mouth and improve your speech over time. Practice speaking aloud, such as reading aloud or talking to a friend or family member, to make you feel confident and more comfortable with your dentures.
8. Adjust Your Dentures When Needed
Dentures may need to be adjusted occasionally to ensure a comfortable fit and optimal functionality.
Signs that your dentures may need to be adjusted include:
- Sore spots
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Loose or uncomfortable fit.
If you notice any of these issues, set an appointment with your dentist to evaluate and adjust your dentures.
9. Keep Follow-up Appointments
Whether you wear braces or dentures, keep up with your follow-up appointments. Regular appointments with your orthodontist or dentist are essential for monitoring your progress and making necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. They can also guide proper oral hygiene and answer any questions or concerns.
Attending your follow-up appointments can ensure the best possible outcome for your dental treatment.
Factors That Can Affect the Adjustment Period
Adapting to new situations can vary from person to person, with some individuals naturally adapting more quickly than others.
This is also true for adapting to dentures, which various factors can influence.
1. Past Experience
Do you ever get used to dentures? If you have experience wearing full dentures, adapting to a new set may take less time.
Those previously worn poorly fitting acrylic dentures may have already developed some control; however, if you require a full immediate denture due to severe gum disease and having all loose teeth extracted. In that case, it will be a major shock to the system and require the most adjustment.
2. Age
Our capacity to adapt, learn new skills, and adjust to changes decreases as we age. Because of this, older patients may find it more challenging to get used to changes than younger individuals.
3. Soft Tissue and Hard Tissue Factors.
In some instances, the anatomy of the mouth may not be suitable for complete dentures. For instance, if the bony ridges that support the denture are significantly diminished, greater muscle control will be required to ensure a comfortable and stable fit.
4. Saliva
The amount of saliva you produce can also impact the adjustment period. If your mouth is too dry, keeping your dentures in place will be harder. However, too much saliva can cause dentures to slip and slide around in the mouth.
With proper care and regular follow-up appointments, you can adjust to wearing your dentures in a relatively short amount of time.
How Long does it Take for Dentures to Feel Normal?
Adjusting to new dentures is a unique experience that varies from person to person. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months to become fully accustomed to wearing dentures.
The first few days are typically the most challenging, with common discomfort, soreness, and difficulty speaking and eating. However, with time and practice, most people adjust well to dentures and can easily resume normal activities.
Key Takeaways:
Here are key takeaways that you can keep in mind while adjusting to dentures:
- Adjusting dentures is a unique experience that varies from person to person. Becoming fully accustomed to wearing them can take several weeks to a few months.
- Discomfort, soreness, and difficulty speaking and eating are common during the initial days of wearing dentures.
- Most people adjust well to dentures with time and practice and can easily resume normal activities.
Get the Support You Need for a Comfortable Denture Experience – Contact Your Dentist Today!
Adjusting to dentures can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With patience, practice, and the right support, you can easily overcome any difficulty initially and enjoy wearing your dentures for years to come.
If you need help adjusting to dentures or have any other concerns, contact Dental Lab Direct today. We provide the knowledge and support you need for a comfortable denture experience.
