Adjusting to Permanent Dentures: A Patient's Guide

Dentures are a great way to improve your smile and restore the function of your mouth due to tooth loss. On top of boosting your self-confidence, dentures also help to slow bone loss. While getting a full set of dentures in Las Vegas is a great option for those suffering from missing teeth, it does require a period of adjustment. To ensure that you enjoy your dentures and that they serve you properly, it’s important to understand exactly what to expect once you receive your dentures.

Ease Into Eating

While dentures may look and feel like teeth, it may take some time before you’re able to eat all of your favorite foods.  Because they’re designed to fit snugly over your gums, you may feel some tenderness throughout the first few days of wear. To reduce this discomfort, stick with soft foods. Take care to chew on both sides of your mouth equally to ensure that pain is limited. As you grow accustomed to your dentures, you can introduce new foods. Soon, you’ll be eating normally again.

Avoid Sticky Foods

Your dentures are adhered to your gums, but that doesn’t mean they won’t move. In fact, as you chew, your tongue and cheeks will learn to work in a way that prevents your dentures from slipping. It’s also a good idea to avoid sticky and chewy foods as much as possible. Taffy, granola bars, and dried food stick in the crevices of your dentures and can cause them to slip. Take care to limit these food items and to clean your dentures thoroughly after consuming them.

Have Patience When Speaking

Many find it difficult or frustrating to speak with dentures in. Keep in mind that it will take some time to get used to your new teeth. The more that you wear them, the more you’ll become accustomed to the way that they feel and how to speak clearly. Don’t be alarmed if your mouth produces an excess of saliva during the first few weeks of wearing them. Eventually the saliva production will normalize, as will your speech.

Wear Your Dentures Consistently

You may feel discouraged during your first few days of denture use. This is completely normal. However, it’s extremely important that you continue to wear them, even when sensitivity and discomfort occur. Wearing your dentures around the clock for the first few days allows your mouth to adjust to the feeling of dentures. Plus, by wearing them consistently, it’s easier to determine whether or not adjustments need to be made to the fit.

Care for Your Dentures Properly

Just as was true with your natural teeth, it’s important to keep your dentures clean. To prevent bacteria from growing, and to give your jaw a rest, it’s recommended that you remove your dentures before sleeping. Once removed, soak your dentures in water or cleaning solution. Avoid boiling or placing your dentures in hot water as it can warp them or cause them to break. Be sure to brush your dentures daily and rinse them before placing them back in your mouth.

Don’t hide your smile any longer. Once you’ve adjusted to your permanent dentures in Las Vegas, NV, you’ll find that your confidence increases and that you’re able to enjoy your life once again! Talk to the experts at Las Vegas Prosthodontics today learn more!