Dentures offer a number of benefits to those who need an effective tooth replacement option. They can aid in digestion, reduce your risk for oral health issues, and improve your speech. Missing teeth can cause insecurities so dentures are also effective in improving your self-confidence. Despite the many benefits, adjusting to dentures can be difficult at first. This is true if you have full or partial dentures as they both require getting used to. However, the adjustment period is fairly fast. Below you will find the most helpful tips for adjusting to dentures so you can wear them with ease.
Tips for Adjusting to Dentures
Dentures are an effective treatment method that can improve your speech, aid in better digestion, and even increase your self-confidence. Transitioning into full or partial dentures can be a challenge, but this is only for a short time. Consider the following tips to get adjusted to your dentures fast.
Manage Your Expectations
Getting used to your dentures can take some time so you should be patient and manage your expectations. Just like braces or a mouth guard, dentures can feel foreign at first. It may be difficult to speak or chew in the very beginning which is completely normal. You may experience minor soreness or discomfort as you adjust to your dentures. Take your dentures out every few hours in the beginning to give your gums and jaw a rest. If you experience soreness when you eat, take smaller bites and chew softer foods. This period should not last longer than one month so be patient as you transition.
Follow Instructions
Your dentist in Cedar Rapids will provide you with a treatment plan once you get your dentures. It is important to follow their instructions and alert them if there are any issues. This includes taking any medication they prescribe. However, if you have an adverse reaction, contact your dentist right away. Everyone heals differently so it’s important to attend all of your follow up appointments so your dentist can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
Try Adhesives
Adhesives can help you adjust to your dentures in the beginning. Talk to your dentist about which adhesives are right for your dentures in Cedar Rapids. Experiment to see which works best for you. Making sure you have properly fitted dentures is necessary as adhesives cannot replace that. If you are concerned that your dentures aren’t properly fitted, talk with your dentist right away. They can make the necessary adjustments to ensure optimal comfort.
Practice Makes Perfect
Speech therapists suggest singing when you first get your dentures. You don’t have to sound like an opera star, but the act of singing can help you adjust to talking with your new dentures in. Singing techniques can help you get used to saying certain words or sounds with dentures in. Turn on the music while you are driving or even at home doing housework to improve your speech. When it comes to speaking with dentures, practice definitely makes perfect.
Try Facial Exercises
Your facial muscles do a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to eating. Your cheek muscles help move the food around your mouth as you chew and prepare to swallow. Facial muscles can help improve these muscles so you have more control over your mouth when you eat. Try practicing facial exercises even before you get dentures to ensure your facial muscles are prepared. It’s important to note that you should not feel pain or discomfort after the first month. If you do, contact your dentist as you may need to get your dentures refitted.