A Dentist in Torrance Shares Tips for Adjusting to Dentures

If you wore braces as a teenager or young adult, you probably remember how foreign the metal brackets and wires felt in your mouth at first. It probably took a little bit of time to adjust and grow comfortable eating and speaking in public again. Just like with braces, patients with new dentures may experience some discomfort in the first few weeks of wearing them – however, it is important to keep in mind that these sensations are only temporary. After some initial discomfort, most patients with new dentures soon find that their new teeth feel and look as natural as can be. If you just received full or partial dentures in Torrance, here are a few things to keep in mind during the first few weeks with your new teeth.

Know What to Expect

According to the American Dental Association, it is not unusual for patients to experience some minor soreness after getting new dentures. However, while your dentures may feel like an uncomfortable foreign object in your mouth at first, keep in mind any discomfort should not last forever.

While you are growing accustomed to your new set of teeth, try eating softer foods that are easy to chew before working up to items that are harder – like read meat or apples. You can also consider taking out your dentures every four hours or so to give your gums and jaw a break while they are still getting used to them.

Sing Your Way to Comfort

Try singing along to your favorite songs to help your mouth get used to speaking with dentures. Singing slowly and smoothly can help your tongue and lips grow accustomed to forming words around your new teeth. So, download a few of your favorite albums from online or turn on the radio while driving in the car and start singing your way to comfort!

Exercise Your Cheek Muscles

Your cheek muscles, also known as buccinator muscles, help direct the food in your mouth towards your throat as you prepare to swallow. Building these muscles through regular exercise can give you more control over your meals while eating. For the first few weeks after getting dentures, try doing some basic exercises like holding a wide smile for 10 seconds at a time a few times a day.

If you still are experiencing significant cheek pain weeks later, it could be a sign of ill-fitting dentures. Be sure to talk to your dentist in Torrance about any persistent discomfort.

Full and partial dentures are a natural-looking option to reclaim your smile. While you may experience some initial discomfort, in weeks or even days you will be speaking, eating and smiling with confidence!

About the Practice

Patients at Blue Coast Dental Group can expect to receive quality dental care that leverages some of the most advanced technology available. Their expert team helps patients reclaim their smiles by offering a wide range of restorative dentistry treatments, including dentures, dental crowns and bridges, and tooth-colored fillings. If you want to learn more about Blue Coast Dental Group, visit their website online or call the office at 310-424-3100.