People who are missing a significant number of teeth can find an effective replacement method with partial or complete dentures. This option provides prosthetic teeth that are set into a plastic base designed to look like gum tissue. Dentures can allow you to eat, speak, and smile with ease once again — but they may take some getting used to at first, though. If you are in the middle of the denture adjustment phase, don’t despair. It just takes time! Keep reading for 5 helpful tips for eating and speaking with dentures.
#1: Start Small
Chewing can be especially difficult with dentures at first. It feels different from what you are used to, and many patients report experiencing a loss of flavor. This is temporary — it’s that your mouth is sending your brain signals about this new object in your mouth, which can overpower your taste buds. Push through the sensation! And, to make eating easier, take small bites and chew slowly. Start with soft, easy to eat foods, like potatoes, fish, and soups.
#2: Practice Makes Perfect
People who are adjusting to dentures often report excessive saliva, which is your mouth’s response to the new prosthetic. This as well as the acoustic effect of dentures can make speaking seem incredibly difficult right at first. To regain your normal and clear speech, practicing out loud to yourself can help a great deal. Read to yourself to get used to the way it feels and sounds. If you hear a click when you speak, go more slowly. This will help strengthen your muscles to make it easier to talk with dentures.
#3: Use an Adhesive
For a complete denture, an adhesive can provide significant help for speech, especially. An adhesive can provide great help for a lower denture, which may be more difficult to secure with natural suction. Your dentist can recommend a good denture adhesive for you to use.
#4: Be Patient
It may be frustrating at first, but don’t forget that adjusting to a denture just takes time. After a month or two, you will likely be eating and speaking with ease and grinning from ear to ear! It’s worth a little patience to enjoy all the benefits of a wonderful tooth replacement.
#5: Know When to See Your Dentist
If you are dealing with a newly uncomfortable denture after several years or if you wait months and months and never seem to adjust to your new denture, it could be time to see your dentist. Several adjustments may be necessary during the initial fitting phase — and, over time, your denture will gradually lose its fit and require replacement. Getting prompt professional help can help you to avoid frustration and discomfort resulting from a poorly-fitting denture.
There you have it — 5 important tips for adjusting to your new denture! Keep these in mind and you’ll be enjoying a comfortable, effective denture for years and years. You may not want to stop smiling!
Meet the Practice
The Brown & Nawrocki dental team offers comprehensive dental services from a state-of-the-art practice. If you are missing several teeth or have been struggling with a loose or ill-fitting denture, your restorative dentist in Ormond Beach can help you find a wonderful solution. Go ahead and give them a call at 386-677-1046!