Living with dentures can be a significant adjustment, but it can also greatly improve your oral health and quality of life.
Let me share some insights on what it’s like living with dentures!
Initial Adjustment Period
When you first get your dentures, it may take some time for your mouth to adjust. You may experience some discomfort, soreness, or difficulty speaking and eating.
This is completely normal and temporary.
Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for and wear your dentures during this initial period.
Improved Appearance
Dentures can help restore your smile and facial structure.
They are custom-made to fit your mouth and can provide a natural-looking appearance.
With dentures, you can regain your confidence and feel good about your smile.
Enhanced Chewing and Speaking
Dentures allow you to chew and speak more effectively compared to having missing teeth. However, it may take some practice to get used to eating with dentures.
Start with softer foods and gradually introduce harder and chewier foods as you become more comfortable.
Speaking may also require some adjustments initially, but with practice, you’ll regain your natural speech patterns.
Oral Care Routine
Taking care of your dentures is essential for maintaining their longevity and your oral health. You’ll need to clean your dentures daily using a denture brush and mild denture cleaner.
It’s important to remove your dentures at night to give your gums and mouth a chance to rest.
Brushing your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth is also crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Adhesive Use (Optional)
Depending on the fit of your dentures, you may choose to use denture adhesive to enhance stability and comfort.
Denture adhesive can provide additional confidence and prevent slippage during eating or speaking.
However, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or the adhesive manufacturer.
Regular Dental Check-ups
Even with dentures, it’s essential to maintain regular dental check-ups.
Your dentist will examine your mouth, gums, and dentures to ensure they fit properly and address any issues or adjustments needed.
They may also recommend periodic denture relining or replacement to maintain optimal fit and function.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living with dentures may require some lifestyle adjustments.
For example, certain foods may be more challenging to eat, and it’s important to avoid sticky or hard foods that could damage your dentures.
It’s also advisable to limit or avoid habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.