How to wear dentures
Before you start wearing dentures (also known as false teeth), you may have a number of questions about what to expect before, during and after your fitting. This is why we’ve put together this helpful guide to let you know what to expect at each stage of the denture journey.
Fitting your denture
The first step is to take a mould of your mouth with impression material to get the exact impression of your gums. The following stages of the creation of your dentures will help ensure they fit and are completely unique to you. A set of dentures will be made from wax for you to try before your final ones are fitted . It’s at this point that you will be able to discuss the colour, fit and feel of your trial denture.
Complete dentures are fitted when all upper and lower teeth need to be removed, and will fit over your gums and jawbone.
Partial dentures will clip on to any remaining natural teeth with metal clasps, and can be unclipped and removed.
Life with dentures
Whilst adapting to your new dentures, you might want to check in with your dentist regularly, so they can answer any questions you may have. Immediately after your dentures have been fitted, you should allow between five and eight hours for them to settle in your mouth. They may feel strange at first and the lower one may even feel quite loose until your muscles and tongue learn how to keep it in place.
You might be advised to wear your dentures all the time for the first 24 hours and it’s normal to experience some soreness while they’re bedding in . Bear in mind, though, that if any soreness persists, you should get in touch with your dentist.
Getting used to your dentures
You’ll soon get used to your new dentures and enjoy renewed confidence in your smile, but it may take patience and a little bit of practice as you adjust to them in the short-term. Here’s what you may experience:
- Your saliva flow may temporarily increase.
- You might experience mild irritation or soreness which should ease in time.
- Some foods may be difficult to chew at first, so you might want to start with soft food as you adjust to your dentures. Be mindful of chewing on both sides of the mouth to keep the pressure even.
- Gagging is common for someone who’s wearing dentures for the first time, but try not to let it put you off. Simple breathing exercises and relaxation techniques will take your mind off it and help you feel controlled and at ease. You could even consider listening to your favourite piece of music while putting in or removing your dentures to give your mind something else to focus on.
You may also need to practice talking with your dentures. You could try reading out loud or pronouncing trickier words in front of the mirror – you’ll soon build your confidence in conversations with others. Some people find that it helps to use a denture adhesive while they’re getting used to wearing dentures in order to provide extra stability, so this might be something you want to discuss with your dentist.
Wherever your day-to-day routine takes you, nobody else has to know you’re adjusting to new dentures, so you can continue to play, work and live life as you always have.
