Receiving new dentures begins a necessary period of adaptation, often called “breaking in,” where your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. This process is not instantaneous; it requires time for the underlying bone, gum tissues, and facial muscles to learn how to interact with the device. A positive, patient approach will help ensure a smooth transition and successful integration into daily life. Understanding that this adjustment is temporary and normal helps manage expectations as the mouth gradually adapts to supporting the new prosthetics.
Managing Initial Discomfort and Wear Time
The first few weeks with new dentures often involve mild discomfort as the soft tissues of the mouth respond to the foreign object. Most dental professionals recommend starting with a gradual wear schedule, increasing the duration slowly each day to allow your gums to toughen and adjust. Removing the dentures overnight is generally advised to give the underlying gum tissues a chance to rest, breathe, and recover from the pressure exerted during the day.
A common occurrence during this period is the formation of sore spots, caused by uneven pressure points where the denture rubs against the gum line. If a sore spot develops, rinsing your mouth several times a day with a warm saltwater solution can help soothe the irritation and promote healing. Never attempt to file or adjust the denture at home, as this can easily damage the fit. If a sore spot persists for more than 24 to 48 hours, it requires a professional adjustment to relieve the pressure point.
Techniques for Eating and Speaking
Learning to chew with dentures requires a conscious change in technique, as the prosthetic does not offer the same biting force or stability as natural teeth. Begin by consuming only easily chewable, soft foods such as scrambled eggs, yogurt, or well-cooked vegetables cut into very small pieces. Avoid biting directly into food with the front teeth, which can destabilize the dentures and cause them to tilt or dislodge.
When you progress to slightly firmer textures, focus on chewing slowly and deliberately, distributing the food equally on both sides of the mouth. This bilateral chewing technique is essential for applying balanced pressure, which helps to keep the dentures securely seated on the gum ridges. Foods that are very hard, sticky, or tough, like nuts, caramels, or certain cuts of steak, should be avoided until you have achieved full confidence and mastery over the appliance.
New dentures may also affect speech by altering the way air flows over the tongue and teeth, potentially causing a temporary lisp or clicking sound. To address this, practice reading aloud from a book or newspaper to help your tongue and cheek muscles quickly adapt to the new contours of your mouth. Before speaking, try biting down gently and swallowing, as this action helps to seat the dentures firmly and can reduce movement.
Hygiene and When to See Your Dentist
Proper daily hygiene is necessary during the break-in period to prevent the accumulation of plaque and bacteria, which can lead to gum irritation and inflammation. Dentures should be removed and cleaned at least once daily using a non-abrasive denture cleanser and a soft-bristled brush specifically designed for prosthetics. Regular toothpaste should be avoided because its abrasive properties can scratch the denture surface, creating microscopic spaces for bacteria to thrive.
When cleaning, handle the dentures over a sink filled with water or a folded towel to prevent breakage if they are accidentally dropped. Soaking the appliance overnight in water or a specialized denture-soaking solution helps keep the material moist, preventing it from drying out or warping. Furthermore, take time to gently brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft toothbrush before reinserting the dentures to stimulate circulation and remove any residual bacteria.
While minor discomfort is normal, certain symptoms indicate the need for a professional evaluation rather than a home remedy. You should contact your dentist promptly if you experience severe, persistent pain, noticeable swelling, or bleeding that does not resolve quickly. Additionally, any feeling of a significantly loose fit, a visible fracture in the denture, or a sore spot that remains painful after 24 hours of rest warrants a visit for a professional adjustment.