Congratulations on your new dentures! A well-made and well-fitting set of prosthetic teeth can enable even individuals who have suffered extensive tooth loss to regain their smile and their ability to eat a wide variety of foods. However, there may be a bit of learning curve when you’re first adjusting to dentures in Harrisonburg. Here are a few handy tips to help you sail through the initial few weeks with your new pearly whites.
Practice Speaking
Your dentures in Harrisonburg are a foreign object in your mouth, and at first they may make it difficult for you to articulate certain sounds. Practice speaking as much as you can so your facial muscles can adjust to working with your new teeth. One easy way to practice is by reading out loud. You could also sing along to the radio to get used to making all the sounds that are necessary for clear, easy speech.
Take Breaks
Your gums may be a bit sore as you adjust to your dentures. Don’t feel like you need to keep your teeth in your mouth all day every day, especially if they’re causing you discomfort. Wear them for a few hours at a time, and remove them periodically so you can give your gums a break. Clove oil and a gentle gum massage can take the edge off the soreness.
Make Good Food Choices
It’s a good idea to eat mostly soft foods when you first get your dentures. However, that isn’t an excuse to consume a lot of processed, nutritionally lacking foods. Foods like applesauce, soups, and fruit and veggie smoothies can help you keep your body in good shape while you’re warming up to your dentures. When you graduate to harder, more solid foods, be sure to cut them into little pieces before you put them in your mouth. Distribute the food evenly across both sides of your dentures so you don’t accidentally cause them to shift or tilt.
Rely on Your Dentist
Your dentist in Harrisonburg wants you to enjoy life with your dentures! When you receive your beautiful new teeth, the dentist will give you some detailed instructions on how to treat both your dentures and your mouth as you embark on life with your prosthesis. Be sure to follow their directions as closely as possible.
Also, feel free to call your dentist whenever you have a question or concern. For example, if you think that your dentures don’t quite fit right, or if they are causing you pain, your dentist will be happy to offer services or personalized tips to help you deal with the situation.
Learning to live with your new dentures shouldn’t be overly challenging or burdensome. Follow the above tips to make the adjustment period as comfortable and easy as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Douglas Wright, one of three amazing dentists in our practice, has been working in his field for over 30 years. He is happy to help patients regain their lost teeth and adjust to life with a dental prosthesis. To learn more about dentures or our practice, contact us at 540-432-6616.