Getting Used to Your New Dentures: 3 Things to Expect

Posted on: 26 January 2022

Your new dentures should solve problems, rather than create new dental dilemmas. However, it's important to manage your expectations. Your new dentures will do what they're supposed to do (creating an artificial substitute for your missing teeth), but there will also be a period of adjustment. Some minor concerns may arise during this period, but it's important to remember that these concerns can be a standard part of getting used to your dentures. What are some potential concerns you might experience in the days and weeks after receiving your new dentures?

1. Bite Pressure

Getting used to your new level of masticatory force (bite pressure) will take some time. Remember that dentures have reduced masticatory force when compared to natural teeth (which are anchored by their roots). Dentures, on the other hand, are detachable and don't have the equivalent of a root system. Don't be too ambitious in the early days with your new dentures. You'll want to stick to soft foods until you've become accustomed to your dentures. Your dentist or denture clinic may provide you with a list of recommended foods for your first few days with dentures, and it's important to not deviate from any recommendations. 

2. Excessive Saliva

As you get used to the available level of masticatory forces provided by your dentures, you might begin to encounter another issue. It's unpleasant to have a dry mouth, but perhaps your dentures are creating the opposite problem—an excessive amount of saliva. This is because your body still registers your dentures as a foreign object. So when they're inserted, your saliva production will increase. This is a common issue and isn't typically a major concern. No treatment should be needed because the issue typically resolves itself as the presence of your dentures becomes more familiar.

3. Sore Spots

Temporary sore spots across your palate are a fairly familiar concern with new dentures. Again, the issue is largely due to the unfamiliar nature of your new dental prosthesis. As your dentures absorb masticatory forces, this pressure can be redirected to the underlying soft tissues. This creates friction, which can cause small sore spots. Similar to excess saliva production, the problem generally resolves itself. However, if these sore spots should continue to develop (and if they should become lesions on your soft tissues), then schedule a follow-up appointment with your denture clinic. Some minor reshaping of your dentures may be required to remove any sharp edges or points of excess friction. These irregularities cannot generally be identified until the patient has had time to actually wear their dentures. 

These minor issues really are a standard part of growing accustomed to the new addition to your mouth. If they don't resolve themselves, please contact your dentist or denture clinic. Keep these tips in mind when looking for dentures near you.

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