HOW TO WEAR DENTURES?

Before you start wearing dentures, you may have a number of questions about what to expect before, during and after your fitting. This helpful guide will let you know what to expect at each stage of your denture journey.

FITTING YOUR DENTURE

The first step is to take a mould of your mouth to get the exact impression of your gums. 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

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. 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 until you've fully adjusted.
  
• You may also need to practise talking with your dentures. 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 when talking and eating. Be sure to ask your dentist for advice.
• Be sure to check in with your dentist regularly. They’ll be able to monitor your progress and answer any questions. If soreness persists, get in touch 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 live life as you always have.