What to Expect
Dentures can help to restore your smile and the function of your teeth. But, adjusting to them will take some time and effort.
On average, it will take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks to fully adjust to wearing dentures.
Your mouth will have to adapt to the changes and get used to having dentures where teeth once were. Knowing what to expect can help to make the transition a little easier.
Why Choose Dentures?
With the realities of having dentures fitted, it's good to also keep in mind the some reasons you might choose dentures.
These include potentially improved confidence, supporting facial structure and muscles, and reducing bone loss. If you are a candidate, they may also be a good long-term solution for missing teeth.
Common Complaints
Some common criticisms of dentures in the early stages include:
- Sore spots and bone chips may develop
- Gums may loosen or shrink
- Make your smile seem unnatural
- Affect chewing
- Cause higher production of saliva
- Trouble speaking or eating while wearing new dentures
Keep in mind that most of these issues are temporary and are a natural part of the denture process.
Tips for Adjusting to Dentures
It's no secret that having a dental appliance in your mouth will feel unnatural and a bit awkward in the first few days or weeks. Some of the biggest challenges will be related to the changes in eating and speaking during that time. Below, we've listed some tips to help.
Eating
Initially, extractions and new dentures will make a diet of soft or liquid foods necessary. Due to food limitations early in the process, it might be easiest to plan ahead and prepare foods that will be ready when you're hungry. Foods that don't require much chewing are best to prevent discomfort or pain. You can also make use of a blender, food processor, or juicer to eat some of your favourite foods during this transition. The following list will help you in the first few days or weeks.
- Applesauce
- Oatmeal
- Muffins
- Pancakes
- Yogurt
- Tofu
- Soups
- Soft or melted cheeses
- Avocadoes
- Smoothies
- Eggs
- Steamed or cooked vegetables that have softened
- Tofu
- Rice
- Pasta
- Ice cream or milkshakes
Talking
Like eating, talking may also be a little awkward in the first few weeks. But you can feel comfortable and confident in speaking again with some practice.
To help adjust to talking with dentures, it might help to speak a little slower than usual. This will help you control the movement and might reduce the clicking sounds that can happen if the dentures are shifting while speaking. You may find that denture adhesive helps to keep your dentures in place. Ask your dentist if this solution is right for you.
To practice, especially in the first few days when people sometimes feel a bit self-conscious speaking around others, you might find it helpful to read out loud to yourself. This allows you to practice or repeat difficult sounds without concern for how others may respond. The more you practice, the easier and more natural it will become, quickly making you confident in your new dentures!