Dentures are removable replacements designed for missing teeth, aiming to restore both function and appearance. They can be complete, replacing all teeth in a jaw, or partial, filling gaps where some natural teeth remain. Understanding the common sensations and experiences associated with wearing dentures can help individuals prepare for this transition. While general expectations exist, each person’s journey with dentures is unique and experiences may vary.
First Impressions and Initial Adjustment
Upon first wearing dentures, individuals often experience new sensations. A common feeling is one of bulkiness or fullness within the mouth, as the oral tissues and muscles adjust to the new appliance. The presence of a foreign object can also trigger increased saliva production, which typically subsides as the mouth adapts over a few days or weeks.
Initial wear may also lead to temporary soreness or pressure points on the gums. These discomforts usually diminish as the mouth’s muscles and tongue learn to accommodate and stabilize the dentures. These early feelings are a common part of the process, often resolving within a few weeks.
How Dentures Affect Daily Life
Once the initial adjustment period passes, dentures integrate into daily activities, affecting eating and speaking. Chewing efficiency changes, as the sensation of food textures and pressure on the gums are different compared to natural teeth. While dentures improve chewing ability significantly compared to having no teeth, chewing performance may still be less than with natural teeth. New wearers are often advised to start with soft foods cut into small pieces, gradually introducing firmer items.
Speaking with dentures requires adaptation. The appliance can temporarily alter pronunciation, particularly for sounds involving the tongue, such as “s,” “th,” and “f,” due to changes in oral anatomy. Practice, such as reading aloud, helps the tongue and lips adjust to the new shape within the mouth. Denture stability during activities like yawning, laughing, or coughing can also be a concern; well-fitting dentures minimize movement and enhance comfort and security.
Living with Dentures Over Time
Over an extended period, the feeling of dentures evolves as the wearer’s mouth and brain adapt. Eventually, dentures can feel more natural and integrated, becoming a comfortable and functional part of daily life.
Maintaining this comfort requires regular adjustments and relines, as the gums and underlying bone structure naturally change over time. These changes can lead to a loosened fit, causing discomfort or instability. Professional relining reshapes the denture base to ensure a snug and secure fit, promoting comfort and function.