Are Dentures Difficult To Get Used To?

It's no secret that getting dentures is a big change. Dentures, partial or full, replace missing teeth and restore your mouth function so you can eat, speak, and smile confidently — but it's normal to wonder what getting used to them is like.

Our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry is here to help answer your questions. We specialize in dentures, and like any new dental appliance, there's a period of adjustment. It can take some time to feel fully comfortable, and here's what we recommend to make the transition easier.

How dentures work

Dentures are custom-made dental appliances that fit your mouth and replace missing teeth. Full dentures replace all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw, and we use partial dentures when only some teeth are missing.

Dentures rely on suction or clasps to stay in place, and modern dentures are made to look and feel as natural as possible. While they can never fully replicate the sensation of natural teeth, they allow you to regain much of the function and appearance you may have lost due to missing teeth.

However, it's important to be prepared when you first get your dentures. Adjusting to them involves more than just placing them in your mouth because your gums, jaw muscles, and brain need time to adapt to the new appliance.

Tips for getting used to dentures

The first few days or weeks of wearing dentures might feel odd, but we're here to help you get used to them. We'll give you instructions for wearing and cleaning them, and we'll be available to answer any questions that come up.

Here are some of our best tips for getting used to dentures:

Start slowly

When you first get dentures, ease into using them. Start by eating soft foods that don't require much chewing, like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs.

Gradually introduce harder or chewier foods into your diet as you get more comfortable. Cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing slowly will also help you adjust to the sensation of dentures while eating.

Wear them regularly

Although dentures can feel strange in your mouth at first, wearing them regularly is the best way to get used to them. Wearing them consistently allows your mouth to adjust more quickly, but remember to take them out overnight to rest your gums and clean them properly.

Practice talking

Talking with dentures can feel awkward, and you might notice changes in your speech, such as difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Practicing at home by reading out loud or repeating difficult words can help you overcome speech challenges.

Over time, your mouth and tongue will adapt to the dentures' presence, and talking will become more natural.

Use a denture adhesive

If your dentures feel loose or you’re concerned about them slipping, a denture adhesive can provide extra stability. Many over-the-counter adhesives are available and can offer added confidence, especially when eating or talking.

See your dentist for adjustments

It's normal to need adjustments in the first few weeks after getting dentures and getting a good fit is important for long-term comfort and function. Make an appointment with our team if your dentures are causing discomfort or don't fit perfectly. And don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions during the adjustment period.

Be patient with yourself

Last but not least, being patient when you're getting used to dentures is important. Everyone's experience differs, but most people adapt to dentures within a few weeks. If you're feeling frustrated, remember that getting used to dentures is a process, and with time, they will feel more like a natural part of your mouth.

Are you considering dentures? Learn more about what to expect during a consultation at Austin Advanced Dentistry. Call us at 512-886-6734 or request an appointment online now.