Adjusting to Your New Dentures
It is exciting to think about having a brand new smile, but you may be having some reservations or questions about what dentures will feel like once you have them placed in your mouth. Most dentists and denture specialists say that it takes around 30 days to fully adjust to your new dentures. If you are still having discomfort or pain after 30 days, it is recommended to have another visit to the clinic for a possible reline or adjustment.
Will dentures hurt?
You will experience discomfort as you continue to adjust to your new dentures. You may develop small sores on your gums, experience aching in your jaw, or have difficulty chewing your food at first. These issues will resolve over time if your dentures are properly fitted to your mouth. If you are experiencing a severe amount of pain or discomfort, call your dentist right away to schedule an appointment for an adjustment.
How do I get used to my dentures?
For the first week or two, focus on eating very soft foods and chewing carefully to get used to how your dentures feel in your mouth. Avoid any hard candy or particularly sticky foods to avoid damaging your new teeth and making the adjustment more difficult. You also want to be careful not to bite your own tongue or cheeks and avoid scraping your gums or remaining teeth.
Gum Sores
One way to combat gum sores is to remove your dentures and soak your mouth with warm salt water one to two times a day. It can be uncomfortable to put your dentures back in, but you must work through this break-in period to fully adjust to your new teeth.
If these sores persist for more than a few weeks, and your relines or adjustments aren’t helping, you may need to consider a different type of denture. Your dentist will be able to help you get to the best and most comfortably fitted dentures for your lifestyle.
Getting back to Normal
After a couple of weeks, you can start to eat more diverse foods while still being careful of how you’re chewing. Focus on eating with your back teeth rather than your front teeth as they are likely more secure and will keep your dentures from falling out of your mouth as you eat.
When you’ve had your dentures for 3-4 weeks, you should be finding it easier and easier to eat and speak normally. Your sores should be healing and you should be smiling more!
Your Smile is Safe With Us
Please also be aware that each type of denture is different and these healing times can be different depending on what type of dentures you have and if you have had a dental implant procedure. Consult with your dental team to decide what type of treatment plan will be best for your particular situation. Our highly skilled team at Affordable Dentures & Implants is ready and waiting to help you get your best smile yet, so call us today to schedule an appointment for your initial consultation.
If you're in need of dentures, our team at Affordable Dentures & Implants is ready and waiting to help you adjust to your new dentures and get your best smile yet. Find a denture specialist near you and schedule your initial consultation today.