Dentures change the way you speak and eat. While the benefits are many, it can also feel a little uncomfortable to wear them when they are new. In Australia, 47% of those over the age of 65 have dentures.
You should be aware that it takes time to adjust to dentures. They will change the feel of your mouth and can be rather uncomfortable when used for long periods early on. Over time, you will become more used to them, but you should never suffer from severe pain or sharp discomfort.
If you find wearing dentures is less than pleasant, there are a few ways to help your mouth get used to them and ease the discomfort.
1. Exercise Your Facial Muscles
There are many muscles throughout your mouth, and when you add dentures to your mouth, particularly if they are full dentures, you’ll notice some changes. The entire function of your mouth will change with the new shape of your dentures.
To offset any potential discomfort, you should engage in frequent mouth exercises. Your cheek muscles are the most important when it comes to eating, so doing exercises that use the cheeks will tend to help you feel better. Exercising before you get the dentures will prepare your mouth for the new ways it will work and help ease discomfort and fatigue once you get the dentures.
Not sure what to do? Try opening and shutting your jaw slowly to stretch the muscles. Purse your lips and then stretch your mouth wide to the sides. You can also try singing, which can aid you with speech once the dentures are in, as well.
2. Choose Your Denture Adhesive
If you find your dentures are slipping or are irritating your gums, you may need adhesive. This comes in many forms, including strips, powder, cream, and paste, all of which may be applied to help keep the dentures fixed in place.
With adhesive, the dentures should be more comfortable and stable. This reduces the friction and pressure that may be causing gum pain. Your dentist can recommend the best possible adhesive for your particular needs.
3. Make Sure Your Dentures Feel Comfortable
Your dentist will try to ensure a proper fit, but sometimes you’ll notice something once you’ve started wearing dentures regularly. There may be more rubbing or irritation than anticipated, or you may notice an edge that shouldn’t be there. Teeth that don’t properly align may also be an issue.
If you become aware of any problems with your dentures, make an appointment to talk with your dentist. They will adjust the dentures to fit your mouth and help ensure that the fit is comfortable. If necessary, the dentist may recommend adhesive, as well.
Additional Useful Tips!
With the methods above, you should notice an improvement. Here are a few more tips that can help you get the most out of your dentures and prevent future problems.
Never Sleep with Your Dentures In
Before you go to bed, put your dentures in a special solution to keep them moist. You should never try wearing dentures while you’re sleeping because they may come loose, and the prosthetic teeth can become a choking hazard if they fall out while you’re asleep.
It’s best to create a bedtime routine where you clean your dentures and place them in the solution before climbing into bed. You can do this at the same time as brushing your other teeth, if applicable. By creating a routine, you’re less likely to forget the task.
Don’t Use Toothpicks
Unlike your natural teeth, dentures can be scratched by hard objects, and toothpicks may cause damage. You should avoid cleaning your dentures with a toothpick or any other hard item. Instead, you can remove the piece and rinse them under running water to dislodge any bits of food. This simple method helps you to visually inspect the dentures to make sure the food is gone.
Eat Soft Foods
It’s important to continue eating once you have your dentures, but it may be difficult if you have irritated gums. Stick to soft foods until you feel comfortable with your dentures, but be sure to eat plenty of nutritious foods. Soups and smoothies are good for getting lots of nutrition during the early days.
Other foods that work well for eating with dentures include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Oatmeal
- Boiled vegetables
- Pureed chicken
- Tuna fish
- Rice
There are many options to help you eat with minimal discomfort, so experiment to find out what works for you.
Dentures Should Enhance Your Quality Of Life
Dentures will make it easier to go about your daily life, and if you follow the tips listed in this article, you shouldn’t have any issues with them. Remember to choose the most suitable adhesive for your dentures to keep them firmly in your mouth. Contact your dentist if you have any fitting problems so they can be fixed as quickly as possible.
Are you tired of not eating properly due to missing teeth? Do you have dentures, but they don’t feel right? Contact Boon Dental today to find out how we can help you.
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