What To Expect When Wearing Dentures for the First Time

Traditional dentures, or false teeth, are an effective way to replace missing teeth. While getting dentures is an exciting step, it is normal to be intimidated by the adjustment period. This article will dive into what patients can expect when getting dentures for the first time.

What to expect during the adjustment period

It may take up to one month to fully adjust to new dentures, although some patients adjust in as little as two weeks. For a faster adjustment, try wearing the dentures as often as possible. Here are four common issues a patient can expect to encounter within the first 30 days of getting dentures:

Difficulty chewing

Most patients report having difficulty chewing for the first two weeks. Tackling soft foods first can make the adjustment easier on the gums. Broth, mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, and pudding are great starting options.
Once the patient can comfortably eat soft foods, they can transition to harder foods. It can help to start with baked beans, cooked vegetables (e.g., vegetable soups), soft bread, pasta, and rice before moving on to red meat, apples, nuts, and other solid foods. Make sure to chew with both sides of the mouth.

Trouble speaking clearly

Talking with dentures is a learning curve. Practice makes perfect, however. Some patients find it helpful to read a book to themselves out loud. The most important thing is not to get discouraged if it takes a few weeks to be able to speak clearly.

Increased salivation

Since dentures are a foreign object, it is normal for the body to produce more saliva when they are in place. Therefore, excessive salivation should subside within the first few weeks. In the meantime, eating a piece of candy or a mint is a great way to manage excess saliva; it will encourage the patient to swallow the extra saliva naturally.

Soreness in the mouth

Dentures can make some areas of the mouth feel sore at first. Fortunately, this soreness should subside as the mouth gets used to the dentures. However, if it does not clear up in a couple of weeks, the dentures may need to be adjusted. A dentist or prosthodontist can often adjust ill-fitting dentures in the office so the patient does not have to go without them.

Denture maintenance and upkeep

Traditional dentures are low-maintenance prosthetics. General care involves taking the dentures out while sleeping and placing them in water or a denture-cleansing solution before bed. Do not put dentures in boiling water — doing so could warp them. Make sure to go to the dentist or prosthodontist for regular checkups. The patients may need an adjustment if the dentures become uncomfortable or they experience side effects, such as mouth sores, ear pain, or gum pain.