5 Tips for Adjusting to Life With Dentures

Whether you receive partial or full dentures to replace missing teeth, it takes some time to adjust to wearing them. Don’t worry — everyone goes through a transition process. It’s essential to remember that you will become accustomed to having dentures.

Before you know it, they will feel like a natural part of your mouth.

Here at VaraniSmile in Turlock, California, general dentist Antoine Varani and our team of dental care providers work closely with our denture patients to make sure they feel comfortable with the changes in their mouths. We want to help you at every step of the process.

With that in mind, we offer the following five tips to adjusting for life with dentures.

Tip #1: Choose the right option

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, you have several options, including dentures, bridges, and dental implants. Before deciding which teeth-replacement option is best for you, learn all about each choice. Keep in mind that because of recent advances in dental science, options you may have rejected in the past might be more appealing today.

As you consider your choices, Dr. Varani invites you to schedule a consultation to discuss your options and have your questions answered.

Tip #2: Follow denture guidance

When you receive your dentures, Dr. Varani and his team will give you instructions about how to care for and adjust to your new dentures. Follow those instructions carefully, and reach out to our team if you have any questions.

Tip #3: Start slowly with food

Your dentures may feel awkward at first, especially when you eat. Take time to get used to eating with dentures by starting with soft foods. Over time, you can advance to eating chewier or harder foods.

However, you may want to avoid some foods, such as seeds, popcorn, foods that may stain your new dentures, and very sticky foods.

Ask our dental team if you have questions about what to eat and what to avoid. 

Tip #4: Expect a transition period

When you first receive your dentures, they may feel loose or awkward. Over time, your tongue and the muscles in your mouth and cheeks will adjust. However, during that adjustment period, you may notice extra saliva flow and spots of soreness or irritation in your mouth or gums.

These inconveniences generally subside within the first few weeks of wearing dentures. If they don’t, mention it to Dr. Varani during follow-up visits, or call our office to check on whether you should be seen sooner than your next scheduled visit.

Tip #5: Practice speaking when you’re alone

At first, dentures may impact your speech. That should improve over time. You can speed up the process by practicing at home when nobody can hear you.

If you continue to have trouble speaking clearly, tell our dental team. Sometimes, minor adjustments can help.

Stay in touch

Our dental care team will let you know how often to follow up with denture checks. But if you have questions or concerns between visits, let us know! We are committed to making your adjustment to life with dentures as smooth as possible.

To make an appointment for a dentures consultation or a follow-up appointment, call us at (209) 248-6659 or use our easy online booking form.