Getting newly fitted dentures can not only improve your diet drastically but your overall wellbeing too. With that being said, they are a foreign object that your mouth isn’t accustomed to, and they can take a little while to feel ‘normal’. If your dentures are feeling awkward, know you are not alone. Here are some helpful tips to help you adjust to your newly improved smile.
Be patient
We know this may be easier said than done, but your dentures will feel better as time passes, you may just have some teething problems in the initial stages, no pun intended. The soft tissues in your mouth and your gums need time to adjust and if you’ve been without teeth for a while, this can take some time. For most, the discomfort is short-lived however, if you aren’t coping and are finding them too uncomfortable to wear every day, reach out to your denture clinic. They may need adjusting, and they can take a look at them for you.
Do some facial exercises
There is a tonne of muscles in your face and mouth, and stretching them out in the lead up to your final fitting can help your dentures feel more comfortable when you get them and wear them full-time. Your denture provider will be able to share some effective exercises with you. If they don’t mention them, be sure to ask.
Slowly introduce foods
The prospect of eating a full diet can be very exciting, and you may want to eat all the foods you haven’t been able to for a long time straight away but, it’s important to slowly transition your diet to allow your mouth to get used to your dentures.
To begin with, try foods such as:
- Yoghurt
- Mashed potato and vegetables
- Soups
- Soft desserts such as custards, mousses, ice creams and puddings
- Smoothies
Once you can comfortably eat the foods mentioned above, you can then transition to foods with more texture, such as:
- Pasta
- Rice
- Stews/casseroles
- Soft bread
- Cooked vegetables
- Fish
After you’ve had your dentures in for a few weeks and the uncomfortable phase has passed, you can then introduce hard foods such as:
- Apples
- Firm meats
- Nuts
- Raw vegetables
- Crunchy foods
Keep in mind how you are eating to prevent injury to your mouth and damage to your dentures. Small bites and chewing evenly on both sides is a great way to enjoy the foods you love while maintaining the integrity of your dentures.
Clean properly as necessary
Proper denture care is integral to keeping them intact and working as they should. Each time you eat, you should give your dentures a rinse with water. This will prevent a build-up of food debris from adhering to your dentures and will stop sores from forming from trapped food between the dentures and gums. At night, clean your dentures and soak with your preferred denture cleaner. Always follow the directions of use to prevent premature wear. Avoid using regular toothpaste on your dentures as this can be abrasive and irreversibly scratch them. Additionally, use a denture appropriate toothbrush.
To keep your dentures looking as good as they do now, we suggest booking an annual clean and examination. Your prosthetist can see if there are any areas of concern and repair them before they have a chance to worsen. A thorough clean will keep them white and shiny too.
Sing out loud
Speech therapists will commonly use singing as a form of speech training. This can speed up the rate that your mouth gets used to your dentures, allowing you to communicate words more fluidly and clearly. You can do this by singing along to music during the day whenever you get the chance. The more you do it, the easier it will be to speak with your dentures, and the less uncomfortable they will feel.
Try out an adhesive
Denture adhesives and creams can help to relieve the discomfort you may be feeling early on. Have a chat with your dentist or prosthetist about what options are available to you. If it’s been a month or so, and you are still experiencing irritation from your dentures, schedule an appointment at your denture clinic. Some slight adjustments may need to be made.
Ensure you are following your treatment plan
One of the best ways to ensure your dentures feel comfortable is by following the treatment plan that has been outlined specifically for you by your prosthetist. Some adapt well after a short period, while others take a tad longer to get used to them. If you’ve had extractions or implants fitted, you may take longer to heal, and your dentures may irritate your mouth for longer. Keep up with your medication (if any), appointments and ensure you are maintaining good dental hygiene as outlined.
Dentures can be a whole new beginning for some people. They can restore confidence and promote a healthy and balanced diet.
With the tips we’ve mentioned above and collaborative input from your prosthetist, your new dentures will be feeling as close to your original teeth in no time, allowing you to enjoy them in their entirety. If you’re looking at dentures and you’re located on the Gold Coast, look no further than our highly skilled team here at Denture Care Professionals Australia. We can work with you until we find the absolute most comfortable and aesthetically appealing fit. Contact us today for more information.
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