According to a recent report by the American Dental Association (ADA), 20% of adults over age 65 have lost all their teeth (edentulism). There are a number of solutions for total tooth loss, such as bridges, crowns, and implants, but dentures are a go-to remedy for millions of seniors each year.
While getting dentures does come with a bit of an adjustment period, most people find it doesn’t take too long to get used to wearing them. It's all about getting through those first few weeks of transition.
Carol Scuro, DMD, Bradford Emery, DMD, and Nicholas Emery, DDS, at Emery & Scuro DMD, PC offer expert full and partial denture placement and care here in our Rochester, New York, office. This month, we delve into why it takes a little while to get used to dentures and what you can expect as you adjust.
The adjustment period with dentures varies from person to person. For some, it might take only a few days, and for others, it could take a few weeks. On average, most of our patients get used to their dentures within 4-6 weeks. This is because their mouths need time to adapt to the new appliances.
Though each person’s response is unique, denture placement has some common side effects that you should be aware of, including:
Setback: Your gums can become inflamed and irritated due to the pressure and shape of the dentures.
Fix: Your dentist here at Emery & Scuro, DMD, PC can make adjustments and smooth the edges to ensure a better fit.
Setback: At first, you might not feel like you have the right amount of biting power because dentures don’t have the same feel or strength as natural teeth.
Fix: Start out with softer foods and gradually add in chewy or hard foods as you adjust.
Setback: Saliva, plaque, and food particles can accumulate in the denture adhesives or get wedged between the crowns, and make your breath smell foul.
Fix: Just like your natural teeth, dentures require proper care and cleaning. Be sure to brush, floss, and soak them each day. Denture detergents help neutralize the odor and keep your breath fresh.
Setback: Dentures change the landscape in your mouth, affecting how your tongue and teeth work in harmony to form words and make sounds. Your speech may lack clarity, or you may have trouble forming letters and pronouncing certain words.
Fix: Patience and practice. It takes a few weeks to get used to the shape and feel of the dentures in your mouth. As you become familiar, spend some time in the mirror practicing saying words that are giving you trouble. Reading aloud is another helpful way to improve clarity.
Getting used to your new dentures is a process that can take some time, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Soon you’ll be back to smiling, meeting friends for meals, and talking comfortably. The key to success with dentures is persistence, practice, and patience. Before too long, you may not even remember you’re wearing them.
Our experienced cosmetic dentistry team is here to support you every step of the way. For a smooth transition to dentures that feel natural and restore your smile, schedule a consultation with our dental experts. Call 585-684-8423 or request an appointment online today.
