Receiving a brand new pair of dentures can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you’ve recently undergone tooth extraction or are exploring options to enhance your smile, our Greater Jacksonville, FL, dentists know that adjusting to life with dentures can be a unique experience for every individual. Fortunately, we’re here to help. 

To make your days easier, here are 4 tips for wearing new dentures.

Understanding the Timeframe for Getting Used to Dentures

Most patients who have gotten full dentures find that it takes an adjustment period of about 30 days to feel the most comfortable. Now, if you only have a partial denture that has replaced a few teeth instead of a full arch, your timeline may be quicker. Inserting and removing the appliance will still take some practice regardless of the denture type.

It’s natural to experience soreness, excessive salivation, and tight facial muscles during the first few weeks that you start wearing dentures. By day 14, these side effects should have lessened and regular activities like eating may start to become easier. Don’t feel discouraged, however, if eating or speaking still feels awkward at this point.

If your discomfort remains constant throughout this time, please let our dentists know. We’ll ask that you come into one of our offices so we can take a look and make adjustments as necessary to improve your comfort level.

For Those Starting to Wear Dentures, We Advise:

1) You Not Rush the Process & Stay Patient 

Acclimating to your dentures can feel slow and frustrating at times. That’s perfectly normal as they’re not something you can become accustomed to overnight. Because of this, the main thing our dentists want you to keep in mind is patience. 

You’ll need to set realistic expectations and not be so hard on yourself. Dentures are a new dental appliance that requires practice when it comes to speaking and eating. In the beginning, our dentists recommend taking smaller bites of soft foods that are much easier to chew. Do not immediately try to go for an apple or something “difficult”. 

You can also give your gums and jaw a rest by periodically taking your false teeth out every few hours. If you do this, just be sure to put them back in place for the rest of the day. They can remain out while you’re sleeping but will need to be submerged in water or a denture cleanser to stay hydrated.

2) Taking Time to Say Phrases or Sing

Speaking with new dentures may feel a little clunky. A good way to get over the full or unnatural feeling is to practice. Repeat words or phrases of varying difficulty out loud in front of a mirror to get your mouth used to having the dentures in place. Doing this a few times each day will make it easier in the long run. 

Aside from talking, singing along to a song also helps you learn to form certain words better. Turn on your favorite music and have a little fun as part of your practice. If you sing smooth, fluid phrases slowly, that also helps with word formation. 

3) Activating & Engaging Your Facial Muscles

Who said the muscles in your cheeks were exempt from exercise? If you want control while eating, it’s best to build up these muscles to relieve cheek pain in the first few weeks you have your dentures. 

Try giving these facial exercises a go:

  • Smiling really wide for at least 10 seconds several times a day.
  • Open your mouth slightly but keep your upper lip relaxed. Wrinkle your nose and flare your nostrils in an exaggerated motion. Finally, pull your top lip up and hold this for 10 seconds. Release and repeat a few more times.
  • Practice other expressions in the mirror (silly, angry, etc.) to normalize your new appearance and give the muscles in your face extra to work on. 

4) Possible Adhesive Application

Irritation felt early on with dentures can be reduced with a dental cream or adhesive. The main thing to remember with products of this nature is that they shouldn’t become a crutch. If your dentures aren’t fitting correctly, our dentists can perform a denture reline or repair to remedy the situation.

Make an Appointment

Your first 30 days with dentures will be a change of pace, but with the right strategies, it can also be a time of empowerment and renewed confidence. By prioritizing proper oral hygiene, seeking professional guidance from our dentists serving Jacksonville, Orange Park, and surrounding areas, embracing dietary modifications, and cultivating a positive mindset, you’ll seamlessly transition. Call one of our Quality Dentures & Implants locations today to request an appointment.