What the first 30 days feel like
Be gentle with your mouth and give yourself time. Some discomfort, extra saliva and a few sore spots are common during the first month. Eating and speaking may feel awkward at first, and practice and patience are what make the difference. Most people feel comfortable and confident in everyday activities once the first month has passed.
If fit or comfort problems are still there after a month, contact us for an adjustment appointment.
Eating with new dentures
It can help to practice a few meals at home, on your own. Start with soft foods such as mashed potatoes or yogurt for the first couple of days, then move on gradually.
- Avoid biting with your front teeth, because it can dislodge the dentures.
- Cut food into small pieces, chew slowly and chew on both sides of your mouth.
- Skip sticky or hard foods such as popcorn, corn on the cob and nuts, and tough meats like steak or ribs, until you are used to your dentures.
- Be careful with hot drinks and food. Dentures insulate your mouth, so you may not feel the heat as much.
- If chewing is difficult at first, nutritional shakes can help you get the nutrients you need.
Keeping your dentures clean
A steady routine protects your gums and mouth. Brush and rinse your dentures every day to remove food and plaque, and soak them overnight, because they need to stay moist to keep their shape.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, whitening toothpaste, hot water or products with bleach. Regular check-ups let us confirm that your dentures fit well and are not slipping.
When to ask for an adjustment
Sores on your gums or tongue can mean the dentures do not fit correctly. We can adjust them. For pain in the meantime, an oral topical gel made for this purpose or an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen can help, and taking your dentures out at night and for longer breaks during the day gives your gums a rest.
Sore spots that do not go away, or a fit that gets worse after you had adjusted, are reasons to call us. Do not wait for them to settle on their own. You can reach us at (781) 289-3331.
Common questions
Can new dentures be adjusted?
Yes. If you notice sores on your gums or tongue, the dentures may not fit correctly, and we can adjust them.
Why do I produce so much saliva with new dentures?
Your mouth treats the dentures as a foreign object, so the salivary glands work harder. Saliva usually returns to normal levels after about two weeks.
How often should I see the dentist after getting dentures?
Plan on at least a yearly visit to check the fit and your overall oral health, including an exam for problems such as oral cancer. We may suggest more frequent visits depending on your case.
Can I sleep with my dentures in?
You can, but the American College of Prosthodontists recommends taking them out at night so your gums can rest from the pressure. Remove and clean them at least once every 24 hours.