How to adjust to dentures; a guide from our private dentist
Many people are surprised to learn that only about 30% of people over the age of 40 have all of their original teeth. That means that the idea of older people needing to have dental replacements is something of a reality, but also something of a falsehood too.
Most people who have dental replacements fitted to their teeth, like dentures, are actually between the ages of 40 and 50, meaning that the association with dentures and older people is a myth.
When you come to S10 Dental, irrespective of your age, our private dentist Sheffield will be happy to discuss the most suitable restorative options for you. And we offer a fair few, from high-tech dentures all the way up to dental implants.
So, if you are coming to see our private dentist Sheffield to have dentures fitted, what can you expect from the process?
Adapting to Dentures Takes Time
While some people adjust to dentures quickly, others may take several weeks or even months to become comfortable wearing them. Initially, you may experience soreness, irritation, and discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the new prosthetic. This is normal and should subside with time. It’s essential to follow the instructions from private dentist Sheffield on how to care for your dentures and use them correctly to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Speech May Be Affected
Dentures can affect your ability to speak clearly, particularly when pronouncing certain sounds. You may experience lisping, slurring, or difficulty enunciating certain words. This is also normal, and with practice, your speech will improve. You may find it helpful to practise reading out loud, singing, or speaking with a friend or family member to adjust to your new way of speaking.
Eating May Be Challenging
Eating with dentures can take some practice, and you may need to make adjustments to your diet. Initially, it’s best to stick to softer foods and cut them into smaller pieces to make chewing easier. Avoid sticky, hard, or tough foods that could dislodge your dentures or cause discomfort. Over time, you’ll become more comfortable eating a wider variety of foods and can gradually reintroduce your favourite dishes. Also, for the record, it is best to avoid anything with seeds, as these can become trapped under the denture and cause some soreness.
Denture Maintenance is Critical
Proper denture maintenance is essential to ensure their longevity and prevent oral health problems. You’ll need to clean your dentures regularly with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. You should also soak them in a solution recommended by our team to remove bacteria and prevent staining. Additionally, it’s essential to continue caring for your remaining natural teeth and gums by brushing, flossing, and visiting our team regularly.
Adjustments May Be Necessary
It’s normal to experience some discomfort or soreness after receiving your newly made dentures, and you may need to return to see our team for adjustments. If your dentures feel loose, cause irritation, or affect your ability to eat or speak, make an appointment to have them evaluated. We can adjust the fit, shape, or size of your dentures to improve comfort and functionality.