Tips for Living with Complete Dentures
Replacing missing teeth with complete dentures can help you speak with more clarity, enjoy more of the foods you love, and smile with confidence once again. You may need a brief adjustment to your new replacement teeth, but they should feel more comfortable and functional in no time.
Dr. McGuire and his patient-centered team at Great Lakes Dentures and Implants have put together the following tips on living your best life with your new dentures:
Give Yourself Time: It may take a few days to weeks to get used to wearing your new dentures. They may feel loose initially as your tongue and cheeks learn to hold them in place. Be patient and know that your brief adjustment period will end before you know it, leaving you with a beautiful, functional smile.
Ease into Eating: Eating may require some practice at first, so start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Take your time and chew slowly using both sides of your mouth to get used to keeping your new dentures in place. Slowly introduce different foods and textures as you grow in confidence and comfort.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: You will be able to enjoy more of the foods you love with new dentures. However, it is important to steer clear of hard or sticky foods, which can damage your dentures or cause them to slip or shift out of place.
Practice Speaking: Your speech may feel different at first, and you may find certain sounds more challenging to produce with your new dentures. Try reading aloud, repeating tricky words, or having conversations with family and friends to improve your clarity of speech. Over time, your tongue and facial muscles will adjust, and your speech will feel more natural. Don’t get discouraged, as this is a normal part of the process.
Use Denture Adhesive Sparingly: Well-fitting dentures typically do not require denture adhesives to hold them securely in place. If, however, you want an added sense of security, use a denture adhesive sparingly. If your denture is loose or uncomfortable, contact our office, and we’ll be happy to make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit.
Keep Your Dentures Clean: It’s important to clean your dentures daily to keep your mouth healthy and your smile fresh. Remove and rinse your dentures after every meal, and brush them daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive denture cleanser. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can be too harsh and abrasive. Soak your dentures in a denture solution overnight to help keep them moist and ensure they maintain their shape.
Handle Your Dentures with Care: Your dentures are made to withstand daily wear and tear. However, they can be damaged if they’re dropped or mishandled. When rinsing or cleaning them, hold them over a soft towel or a sink filled with water as a cushion to prevent them from accidentally falling and breaking.
Take Care of Your Gums: Even with complete dentures, it’s important to care for your gums. After removing your dentures at night, gently brush your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush or a damp cloth to stimulate circulation and remove any plaque. This can help prevent irritation and promote your overall oral health.
Keep Up with Preventive Care: Make sure to keep up with your recommended dental exams and cleanings to ensure your dentures and your oral health stay in tip-top shape. If you have any concerns between appointments, contact us to schedule an appointment. We make any needed adjustments to ensure the best fit, comfort, and function.
Complete Dentures Near Me in Plainwell, MI
Congratulations on restoring your smile with complete dentures. Learning to adjust to your new restorations may take some time, but it will be rewarding day after day. Dr. McGuire and his patient-centered team at Great Lakes Dentures and Implants are always happy to answer your questions, address your concerns, and offer personalized denture care tips and guidance for adjusting to life with your new dentures. We invite you to call us at 269-888-6686 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!