If you’ve recently taken the leap to getting dentures, congratulations on this big step!
There are lots of reasons to be excited about this process; dentures can make you look younger, boost your confidence, and improve functions like chewing, speaking, and smiling.
However, it’s totally normal to feel a bit unsure about what comes next. Getting used to wearing dentures takes time and patience, but with some practice and the right approach, you’ll get there faster than you think.
In this blog, we’ll take you through our top tips and strategies on making the denture adjustment process as smooth as possible.
Coping with saliva reduction
When you first start wearing dentures, you might notice some changes in saliva production. Your mouth is getting used to the addition of new dentures, and this can sometimes lead to dry mouth (also known as Xerostomia).
While the symptoms of dry mouth – a dry or burning feeling in the mouth, cracked lips, sores, etc. – can be irritating, it can also impact your dental health. If left untreated, dry mouth can lead to tooth decay, inflammation, and oral infections.
How to manage dry mouth
- Stay hydrated: keep some water handy and take sips as you go about your day. When you’re dealing with dry mouth, hydration is your best friend!
- Try saliva substitutes: over-the-counter artificial saliva sprays or rinses can help keep your mouth moist while your system adjusts to your new dentures.
- Choose healthy snacks: try to avoid things with lots of sugar or caffeine, as well as alcohol (this includes mouthwash that contains alcohol). Go for snacks like cucumber, watermelon, and sugar-free gum – and remember to drink enough water.
Dry mouth can be common when you’re getting used to dentures, but if you follow these tips, you can help keep your mouth healthy and comfortable while it adapts.
Getting used to speaking with dentures
When you first start wearing them, speaking with dentures can feel a bit awkward, but don’t worry – it’s a learning experience!
You might notice that you have a slight lisp or feel that words sound strange or different than usual.
The good news is that this won’t last forever, and a bit of practice can go a long way.
3 Tips for speaking with dentures
- Practice with a mirror: it might sound a bit silly but watching yourself speak can help you identify tricky sounds, practice certain words, and gain confidence when it comes to conversating with other people.
- Read out loud: if you’re looking for an easy way to practice speaking with dentures, pick up your favourite book or magazine and read out loud from it. This will build muscle memory and help with your pronunciation.
- Be patient: talking with dentures might feel frustrating at first, and we understand this! However, it won’t last forever. Your speech and confidence will improve with time – everyone’s does!
Adjusting to eating with dentures
A lot of times, we find that one of the biggest hurdles for new denture wearers is learning to eat comfortably with them.
The good news is, eating with dentures is totally possible! It might take some trial and error at first, but soon enough, you’ll be back to enjoying all your favourite foods.
How to eat with dentures
- Start with soft foods: try to stick to foods like mashed potatoes, soups, scrambed eggs, and soft pastas. These are easy to chew and gentle on your gums, so they’re ideal for people who are just starting to eat with new dentures.
- Cut food into small pieces: it might sound obvious, but cutting your food into smaller, bite-sized pieces can make it a lot easier to chew, while also being gentle on your mouth.
- Gradually try new foods: as you start to feel more comfortable eating with your dentures, you can start adding crunchier or harder foods, like toast or apples, back into your diet. Try not to let the adjustment phase affect your diet – aim for good, nutritious foods to make sure your body stays healthy.
Denture support from First Class Dentures
Getting through the denture adjustment period can seem daunting at times, but it’s important to keep in mind that these challenges are only temporary.
With time, practice, and a positive approach, you’ll be back to speaking, eating, and smiling with confidence in no time!
If you’re struggling or want to learn more about the denture process, get in touch with us at First Class Dentures today – we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Thinking of getting dentures for the first time? Schedule a free denture consultation with us to get started!