Getting used to wearing dentures
At Staina House Dental Practice, we recognise the difference a confident smile can make. If you’re struggling with missing teeth, dentures can be a powerful step towards regaining that confidence. Our dentists can help you find the perfect denture solution.
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They can be complete or partial, depending on how many teeth are missing and your unique needs. Carefully custom-made to fit comfortably in the mouth, dentures mimic the appearance of natural teeth and gums. However, as with anything new in life, there’s a period of adjustment involved.
We’re here to talk you through what to expect when wearing dentures for the first time.
When might someone need dentures?
Our dentists in Garstang usually recommend our high-quality dentures when a patient has missing teeth.
Tooth loss can occur for several reasons, such as:
- Extensive tooth decay or damage beyond repair.
- Advanced periodontal (gum) disease leading to tooth loss.
- Trauma or injury resulting in the loss of multiple teeth.
- Genetic conditions or developmental abnormalities impacting tooth development.
- Age-related wear and tear causing significant tooth loss.
What are the benefits of dentures?
While wearing dentures may require some getting used to initially, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Some benefits of high-quality dentures include:
- Improved chewing ability – Dentures restore the ability to chew food properly, allowing individuals to enjoy a wider variety of food.
- Enhanced speech – Missing teeth can affect speech clarity. Dentures help to fill the gaps, improving pronunciation.
- Aesthetic appeal – Dentures restore the appearance of a natural smile, boosting a patient’s confidence and self-esteem.
- Preservation of facial structure – In some cases, tooth loss can lead to the sagging of facial muscles and a prematurely aged appearance. Dentures help maintain facial structure by providing support to the lips and cheeks.
- Customisation – Dentures can be customised to match the natural colour, shape and size of remaining teeth.
What to expect when wearing dentures for the first time
Transitioning to wearing dentures can be a significant adjustment. At Staina House Dental Practice, our compassionate team is always available to guide you on what to expect when wearing dentures for the first time.
Eating with dentures
Initially, eating with dentures may feel awkward as your mouth adjusts to the device, and it will take some time and practice. For the first few days, you should start with soft foods cut into small pieces and gradually progress to a more varied diet. Avoid hard and crunchy foods that may dislodge or damage the dentures until you get used to them.
To make eating with dentures easier, our dentists may also recommend that you:
- Chew on both sides of your mouth at the same time
- Cut your foot into smaller pieces
- Eat slowly while you adjust
- Have a glass of water with your meal – to reduce the amount of food sticking to your dentures
Speaking
Initially, wearing dentures may affect your speech – but this won’t be as noticeable to others as you think. You may have minor lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain words because your tongue, lips and cheeks need to adjust to having dentures in your mouth. Over time, your pronunciation will improve. In the meantime, you can practice speaking out loud when alone.
Adjustments
Adjustments may need to be made to your dentures after they are fitted. If something doesn’t feel right and they are causing you discomfort, you should contact our Garstang practice so that we can make amendments. Routine dental appointments are essential for addressing the condition of your dentures and making any required modifications.
Keep your old dentures safe
When replacing existing dentures with new ones, keep your old dentures as backup in case of an emergency. If your new dentures do require adjustments that mean you must leave them behind for a day, having a replacement set can save any worries.
Taking care of your dentures
Taking care of your dentures is essential for their longevity and your oral health. To clean your dentures, rinse them after meals, removing any food particles and debris that may have built up. You should also brush them gently with a soft-bristled brush and avoid using hot water or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage your dentures.
Nervous about what to expect when wearing dentures for the first time?
At our Garstang practice, we provide our patients with high-quality dentures – proudly offering Enigma Life Teeth from Schottlander, which have received the Queen’s Award.
If you are considering dentures or have recently received them, we are here to support you every step of the way while you get used to wearing them. To find out more about what to expect when wearing dentures for the first time, please call our friendly team today on 01995 605707. We look forward to hearing from you.
