How to cope with partial dentures

If you’re wearing partial dentures, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the American College of Prosthodontists, over 36 million Americans have some form of missing teeth. Whether you’ve lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury, partial dentures can help restore your smile. But adjusting to life with dentures can take some time and effort. Here are a few tips to help you cope with your newpartial dentures.

It’s normal to feel uncomfortable when you first start wearing partial dentures

Wearing partial dentures for the first time can be extremely stressful and uncomfortable. Many people find themselves adjusting to the feeling of new foreign objects in their mouths, and must get used to speaking and eating differently. However, it’s important to remember that this is completely normal – a huge part of the adjustment process! With enough practice and patience, wearing most dentures becomes easy and comfortable. Speak with your dentist about any issues you’re having as soon as possible – they can adjust the fit of your dentures and make sure you feel confident with them.

Give yourself time to get used to the new sensation of having something in your mouth

Adjusting to having an oral appliance in your mouth can take some time. Your muscles, tissue and teeth may need to adjust and grow accustomed to being in a different position. To give yourself the best chance at success, you’ll want to wear the appliance each night for the duration of treatment. With enough time, your body will start to become familiar with the sensation and it will eventually become second nature. During this transition period, it’s important to practice patience and give yourself grace as you learn how to work with the new feeling. The arduous process can be difficult, but it is not impossible!

Try eating soft foods and practicing talking to get used to the feel of the dentures

If you’re considering wearing dentures, it’s important to give yourself time to get used to them. Starting with softer and easier-to-chew foods can help you become more comfortable talking and speaking with the dentures in place. Taking small steps by cutting vegetables into bite-sized pieces or mashing softer items such as boiled potatoes can assist with pain-free chewing. As your confidence grows with this, try gradually moving up to harder foods while still being mindful of how it feels when chewing. This will ensure that you are comfortable speaking while wearing the dentures, essential for those who want a more seamless transition into their new smile.

Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few weeks or even months to get fully comfortable with your new partial dentures

Learning how to use new partial dentures is a process. Depending on your denture comfort level, and on the type of partial dentures you’ve been fitted with, it may take some time, possibly even weeks or months, to become accustomed to wearing and functioning with them. It’s important not to give up: being patient will work to your favor in this situation as over time, you’ll start feeling comfortable with your new partial dentures — so stick with it. Your dentist or dental office can provide you support along the way if necessary to help make adjusting easier for you.

It’s normal to feel uncomfortable when you first start wearing partial dentures. Give yourself time to get used to the new sensation of having something in your mouth by trying soft foods and practicing talking. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few weeks or even months to get fully comfortable with your new partial dentures.