Adjusting to Your New Dentures: What to expect
- claire7931
- Feb 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 24
Congratulations on receiving your new dentures! This is an exciting step toward restoring your smile and confidence. However, adjusting to dentures takes time, and it’s completely normal to experience some initial challenges. At Able Denture and Implant Clinic, we’re here to guide you through the process.
Initial Soreness
It’s common for new dentures to cause mild soreness in the first few weeks, even when they fit well. This happens as your mouth adjusts to the new shape. Most patients need two or three adjustment appointments during this period—don’t hesitate to contact us if discomfort persists.
What to Do if They Feel Too Sore
If your dentures become too uncomfortable, leave them out for a short time and, if possible, wear your previous set until your next adjustment appointment.
Feeling Loose? This is Normal!
New dentures may feel loose at first—this is a natural part of the adaptation process. Your lips, cheeks, and tongue need time to develop neuromuscular control, learning how to keep your dentures in place.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust?
The adjustment process can take anywhere from two weeks to six months, depending on the individual. Patience is key!
Should You Use Denture Fixatives?
Denture fixatives can help improve stability in the early stages. However, they aren’t always necessary. Our team will discuss the best approach for your situation, including the different types of fixatives and how to use them.
Movement While Chewing
Unlike natural teeth, dentures may move slightly when chewing. This is expected, and with time, your muscles will naturally stabilize the dentures as you eat.
Getting Used to the Fullness
Your dentures may feel bulky at first, and you might notice a slight change in your facial appearance. This is normal! Your lips and cheeks will adapt over time. Avoid showing your dentures to friends and family until you feel fully comfortable wearing them.
Increased Saliva Production
A temporary increase in saliva is common when you start wearing new dentures. This will gradually subside as your mouth adjusts.
Speech Changes
Some patients experience temporary speech difficulties with new dentures. Most people adjust within a day, but others may need a bit longer. Reading aloud at home can help your mouth and tongue adapt more quickly.
Learning to Eat with Dentures
Eating with dentures takes time—typically six to eight weeks, or sometimes longer, to feel completely natural.
Tips for Eating with Dentures:
Take larger bites—Nibbling with your front teeth can cause dentures to tip. Instead, use your side teeth.
Balance your bite—Chew evenly on both sides to keep your dentures stable.
Start with soft foods—If you’re a first-time denture wearer, softer foods will help with the transition. Cut solid foods into smaller pieces and slice fruit for easier chewing.
Foods to Avoid:
• Hard & crunchy foods – Crusty bread, nuts, seeds
• Sticky foods – Chewing gum, sticky sweets
• Whole fresh fruit – Consider slicing them instead
Watch Out for Biting Your Tongue & Cheeks!
Your mouth muscles are still adjusting, so be mindful when chewing. Exercising your mouth by puffing out your cheeks and posturing your lips can help speed up the adaptation process.
Every Patient is Different
Everyone’s experience with dentures is unique. Some people adapt quickly, while others need more time. Avoid comparing your journey to others—what matters is that you find a solution that works for you.
If you’re in Hampshire, Surrey, or Berkshire and are considerng new dentures, we’re here for you!
Book a FREE CONSULTATION at Able Denture and Implant Clinic today and we will support you through your denture journey to success!
We proudly serve patients across Hampshire, Berkshire, and Surrey, with our clinic conveniently located in the heart of Camberley. We welcome patients from: Camberley, Fleet, Farnborough, Aldershot, Blackwater, Yateley, Lightwater, Bagshot, Bracknell, Hartley Wintney, Hook, Woking, Wokingham and beyond
Comentários