Adjusting to your new dentures can be a challenging process. After all, they neither feel nor function exactly like your original teeth. The sensations are different, and it can take some time to get used to them. Dentures might cause you to lisp slightly when speaking, and they might make chewing more difficult. However, Dr. John Krell has a few tips to make the adjustment time as quick and comfortable as possible. Here is some of the advice he gives at his office in Houston.
- Bear in mind dentures feel more comfortable and natural over time, so the first and most basic piece of advice is to be patient. Don’t assume that the way they feel in the first few days is how they are always going to feel. Initially, they can feel bulky in your mouth, pressing against the cheeks and lips. You might even feel like gagging, but these feelings will go away.
- It’s a good idea to wear the dentures at night for a while. This will help you adjust to them faster, and once adjusted, you can begin to remove them at night for regular, thorough cleanings. If you develop a sore in your mouth, rinse your mouth out with warm salt water.
- Learning to eat with dentures also takes time, so start with softer foods that are easier to chew. Once you get used to chewing with dentures, you can gradually introduce firmer foods. Alternate the sides of your mouth while chewing in order to stabilize the dentures. Also, avoid biting into firmer foods using the front teeth so as to prevent the dentures from dislodging.
- The lower denture can be a little harder to adjust to because it does not have the grip or suction of the upper denture. Rest your tongue against the inside front edge to help keep it in place. For a while, you might want to use adhesives, but you can eventually learn to control the position of the denture with your lips and tongue.
If all of this seems more challenging than you expected, bear in mind the initial symptoms are only temporary. The end result is worth the adjustment time, so hang in there. Dr. John Krell can make necessary changes along the way, ensuring that you have the best possible fit. For more information about dentures or to schedule an appointment, contact our office in Houston today.