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What to Expect with Dentures Afterwards

Complete or conventional dentures are removable replacements for natural teeth. They are made of acrylic pink plastic that resemble gums and porcelain or plastic teeth. Approximately three months after all the natural teeth have been removed, life with dentures begins. It can be unsettling because you may worry if they're noticable or if they will slip. In addition, previously oral care required flossing, brushing and regular visits to the dentist for cleaning. Dentures, however, take more time and attention.

  1. Feel

    • Denture wearers may have a gag reaction or feel like their dentures do not fit properly. There can be an increase production of saliva, too. Individuals can suffer from irritated or sore gums. Dentures can feel loose, uncomfortable, too big or like they're protruding against the lips. These issues will go away after the tongue and cheek muscles are used to keeping them in the mouth. Individuals with only upper dentures may have to get used to feeling the denture plate instead of the roof of the mouth.

    Food

    • Food will be difficult for new denture wearers for at least three weeks. Eat soft foods first, cut them into small pieces and chew on both sides of the mouth. There may be a change in taste. You may think that the dentures have caused permanent changes to your taste buds, but they haven't. Instead, your mind pays more attention to the dentures than the taste.

    Talking

    • Pronouncing words can be difficult in the beginning as well. With practice, speaking will become better. In addition, individuals may have hearing difficulties, thinking they are speaking louder normal. This is due to how dentures change the vibration in the skull and jaw bones.

    Maintenance

    • Dentures need daily cleaning to maintain good oral hygiene. Clean them inside and outside to eliminate harmful bacteria. Use soap and water or denture care products with a soft brush.

    Considerations

    • Dentures can improve your appearance, as they change the shape of your face. They may slip when you cough, smile or laugh, just gently bite down and swallow. If denture slipping persists, make an appointment with the dentist.

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