Adjusting to New Dentures Port St. Lucie, FL
The adjustment period for new dentures brings the excitement of an enhanced smile, but it also requires patience and practice. Making the transition to wearing dentures full time is a significant change that involves developing new eating, speaking, and dental hygiene practices.
Dentures are available at St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Port St. Lucie and the surrounding area. Our team can provide tips and support to help you adjust well to your new dentures. There are several different strategies to practice and try at home to make the change easier. Call us at (772) 242-4124 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Tips For Adjusting to New Dentures
When transitioning to dentures, patients should give themselves time to adjust. The new dentures may be uncomfortable at first and will likely require more adjusting. Following some simple tips can help patients stay healthy and to keep their mouths happy. It's important to follow the recommendations on this page because it takes time to adjust to new dentures.
Patients can drink nutritional shakes while adjusting to their dentures to be sure to get vital nutrients. They should avoid sticky foods and foods that might get stuck in the teeth or under the dentures. Popcorn, corn on the cob, and nuts should be avoided while adjusting to new dentures. Patients may also want to avoid tough meats that require extensive chewing, such as pork chops, steak, or ribs.
“When transitioning to dentures, patients should give themselves time to adjust.”
Denture Hygiene Routine
Another crucial aspect of adjusting to new dentures is a consistent and effective dental hygiene routine. Proper denture care is essential to maintaining the health of the gums and mouth. Dentures should be brushed and rinsed every day to remove food and plaque. It is also vital to soak dentures overnight since dentures need to remain moist to maintain their shape.
People should avoid using abrasive cleaning materials such as harsh or whitening toothpaste, hot water, and products that contain bleach. It is also essential to schedule regular dental check-ups. These appointments allow us to ensure that the dentures fit properly and prevent slippage and discomfort.
“Another crucial aspect of adjusting to new dentures is a consistent and effective dental hygiene routine.”
Expectations for the First 30 Days
During the 30-day adjustment period, patients should be gentle on their mouths and take their time adjusting to a new routine. New denture wearers should develop realistic expectations. While oral discomfort is normal and expected, dentures will start to feel more natural and comfortable over time. Increased salivation and sore spots on the mouth are also normal to experience during the first month of wearing new dentures.
While eating and speaking may feel foreign at first, practicing and having patience are key to the adjustment process. If there are still fit and comfort issues after a month, people should contact us for an adjustment appointment. After the first 30 days, people should be able to enjoy their everyday activities comfortably and confidently.
“During the 30-day adjustment period, patients should be gentle on their mouths and take their time with the new routine.”
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Change Eating Practices
New denture wearers may want to practice a few meals at home alone. In the first couple of days, focus on softer foods, such as mashed potatoes or yogurt. Avoid biting with the front of the teeth because this action may dislodge the dentures.
Doing things like chewing on both sides of the mouth, cutting food into small pieces, chewing slowly, and drinking fluids to wash the mouth out can all be effective ways to prepare for life with dentures. Be careful with hot liquids. Dentures insulate the mouth, making it less sensitive to heat.
“Doing things like chewing on both sides of the mouth, cutting food into small pieces, chewing slowly, and drinking fluids to wash the mouth out can all be effective ways to prepare for life with dentures.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How should people take care of their new dentures?
Q. What should new denture wearers expect during the first 30 days?
Q. What are some tips to help adjust to new dentures?
Q. How should patients change their eating practices with dentures?
People Also Ask
Q. Why are dentures a preferred treatment?
Q. What is the proper way to take care of my dentures?
Q. What lifestyle changes will people experience after getting dentures?
Q. What should I do if my dentures start to feel uncomfortable?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can new dentures be adjusted?
A. When you are adjusting to new dentures, you may experience discomfort when wearing them. If you see sores on your gums or tongue, the dentures may not fit correctly. Your dentist can adjust your dentures if necessary.
Q. What can I do for pain when I am adjusting to new dentures?
A. Use an oral topical gel or cream made to relieve pain. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation. Take your dentures out at night and for extended periods during the day.
Q. Why do new dentures cause too much saliva?
A. When your mouth is adjusting to new dentures, there is a foreign object in your mouth. This makes your salivary glands work harder. After two weeks of wearing dentures, the saliva should decrease to more normal levels.
Q. How often should I see the dentist after getting new dentures?
A. You should make a yearly appointment with your dentist to check your dentures. This can verify fit and make sure they stay comfortable. This annual visit may include an exam to check for oral health issues, such as cancer.
Q. Can I sleep while wearing dentures?
A. Yes, you can wear your dentures at night. However, the American College of Prosthodontists recommends removing dentures while sleeping to give the gums a chance to rest from the pressure of the dentures. You should always take your dentures out every 24 hours to clean them.
Dental Terminology
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
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