Dental health and dentures

What do new dentures feel like?

New dentures may feel a little odd or loose for a few weeks until the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place and you get comfortable inserting and removing them. Also, it is not unusual for minor irritation or soreness to occur and for saliva flow to increase when you first start wearing dentures, but these problems will diminish as your mouth adjusts to the new denture.

Will dentures make me look different?

Dentures are made to closely resemble your natural teeth so there should be no noticeable change to your appearance. In fact, dentures may even improve your smile and fill out your facial appearance.

Will eating with new dentures be difficult?

Eating with new dentures will take a little practice and may be uncomfortable for some wearers for a few weeks. To get used to the new denture, start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. As you get used to your new dentures, add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. It may be best avoid chewing-gum while you adjust to the denture. Also, don't use toothpicks while wearing dentures.

Will dentures change how I speak?

After you get dentures, you may have difficulty pronouncing certain words. If so, practice by saying the difficult words out loud. With practice and with time you will become accustomed to speaking properly with your denture.

If your dentures "click" while you're talking, you should contact your dentist. Your dentures may occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition the dentures by gently biting down and swallowing. If any speaking problem persists, consult your dentist or prosthodontist.

Are dentures worn 24 hours a day?

Your dentist or prosthodontist will instruct you as to how long to wear your denture and when to remove it. During the first several days after receiving your denture, you may be asked to wear it all the time, including while you sleep. Although this may be temporarily uncomfortable, it is the quickest way to identify the areas on your denture that may need adjustment. Once adjustments are made, you should remove your dentures before going to bed. This allows gum tissues to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva. The denture can be put back in your mouth in the morning.

Should I use a denture adhesive?

A denture adhesive may be considered under the following circumstances:

1. To enhance your satisfaction with a properly constructed denture. Adhesives enhance retention, stability, bite force, and an individual's sense of security.
2. To assist individuals with dry mouth conditions that lessen denture adherence, such as individuals taking cold medications, those with neurologic disabilities including strokes and the elderly.
3. To provide added stability and security for those who place unusual demands on their facial muscles, such as public speakers or musicians.