Dentures First Time
Published On: September 27th, 2018Categories: Dentures2 min readViews: 379

What to Expect When Getting Dentures

Contrary to common misconception, dentures are not the horrendous nightmare they’re made out to be. They’re actually quite the smile-savers for millions of people, allowing them to eat, speak, and smile confidently.

In fact, according to the American College of Prosthodontists, 90 percent of people suffering from tooth loss use dentures to replace their missing teeth.

But any new change in life can seem daunting, and despite their usefulness, getting dentures is no different. As denture specialists, we understand that and want to help. Here is a little guide about what to expect when you get dentures, and how to overcome the initial difficulties of adjusting to your new appliance.

Overcoming the Impact on Speech

Wearing dentures can have an impact on your speech, at least initially. Since it is an external instrument fit into your mouth, it will take a while for your tongue to get accustomed to speaking around it.

The best way to get around this is through practice, practice, and more practice. Maintain a list of words that seem difficult for you to pronounce, and then say them out loud with your dentures in when you’re by yourself. This will boost your confidence for when you’re around other people and keep you from feeling uncomfortable during social interactions.

Reading out loud is also a very effective exercise to help with this adjustment. Once you get used to your dentures, your speech will regain its clarity.

Eating Habits

It may be difficult to chew immediately after getting dentures. Stick to soft foods that are easy on the teeth and take small bites at first to make the process easier. Chewy, sticky foods like jelly or caramel might stick to your dentures and cause discomfort; avoid them until you’ve adjusted and are more comfortable.

Sore Spots

Sore spots can be common once you start wearing dentures. This usually indicates an improper fit, so schedule an appointment with your dentist right away and show them where the sore spot is located. They will make adjustments accordingly to give you a more comfortable fit; expect to need about two to three denture adjustments before your denture gets entirely comfortable.

Getting Used to Dentures

Getting dentures for the first time is a major dental procedure and some level of pain is natural as your gums and oral tissues will need time to adjust. After awhile, as you take good care of your dentures and maintain good oral hygiene, the dentures will start to feel more natural and you’ll find yourself feeling less discomfort.

Our expert denture specialists at European Dental Center are trained to provide full denture services as well as partial denture services. They are also committed to helping you with the process of getting used to your dentures. You can schedule an appointment for a free no-obligation consultation to address any initial concerns you might have regarding dentures, and our team will be happy to help!