Adjusting to New Dentures: What to Expect in the First Few Weeks

Getting new dentures is a major step toward restoring your smile and improving your ability to eat and speak comfortably. However, it does take time for your mouth to adjust to the fit and feel of dentures. At Team DDS New Carlisle, Dr. Lytha Miller and her team help patients navigate the transition to dentures with expert care and personalized guidance. Knowing what to expect in the first few weeks can make the adjustment process easier and more comfortable.

Initial Discomfort and Adjustments

It’s normal to experience some discomfort when you first start wearing dentures. Your gums and oral tissues need time to adapt to the new appliance. Common initial concerns include:

• Soreness – Mild irritation is common as your mouth adjusts. If discomfort persists, Dr. Miller can assess the fit and make necessary adjustments.
• Increased Saliva Production – Your body may react to dentures by producing more saliva, but this typically decreases within a few days.
• A Feeling of Fullness – Dentures may initially feel bulky or awkward, but with regular wear, they will begin to feel more natural.

Eating with New Dentures

Another one of the biggest adjustments with dentures is learning how to eat comfortably. To ease the transition:

• Start with soft foods – Mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and soup are good options as you get used to chewing.
• Cut food into small pieces – This makes it easier to chew and prevents excessive pressure on your gums.
• Chew slowly and evenly – Using both sides of your mouth helps stabilize your dentures while eating.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods – Items like caramel, nuts, and tough meats can be challenging to chew and may dislodge your dentures.

Speaking with Dentures

Speaking clearly with dentures may take some practice. Some patients experience slight changes in their speech, such as a lisp, but this usually improves over time. To speed up the adjustment process:

• Practice reading aloud – This helps your tongue and muscles adapt to the new shape of your mouth.
• Repeat difficult words – If certain words feel challenging to pronounce, practice them slowly and deliberately.
• Be patient – Most people adjust to speaking with dentures within a few weeks.

Keeping Your Dentures Secure

Ensuring a proper fit is crucial for comfort and function. If your dentures feel loose or cause ongoing discomfort, Dr. Miller can adjust them for a better fit. Using a denture adhesive can also help with stability, especially in the early weeks.

Get Comfortable, Natural-Looking Dentures at Team DDS

Adjusting to new dentures is easier when they are custom-made for a perfect fit. Dr. Lytha Miller at Team DDS New Carlisle provides high-quality dentures designed to look and feel natural, helping you regain confidence in your smile. Whether you’re getting dentures for the first time or need a replacement, our team ensures a comfortable, precise fit. Call (937) 845-9422 today to schedule a consultation.