Is It Difficult Getting Used to Dentures? 

It takes time to get used to new things, and dentures are no exception. You may feel at first that getting accustomed to them is impossible; trust us, it won’t be as hard as you may think. 

At Downtown Dental Studio in New York City, we strive to provide our patients with the best information about their dental procedures before and after the procedure. Getting fitted for dentures is only the start of the journey; in time, you’ll grow comfortable with your new teeth. 

What to expect when you get dentures 

It’s true that getting dentures (whether your first set or a replacement) requires an adjustment period. After all, you use your mouth for so many things, so having a new set of teeth undoubtedly feels strange, even annoying, at first. 

You may feel like they make it hard to speak clearly, which can be embarrassing, or chew food easily and comfortably. You may be more likely to bite your tongue or fail to realize that you’re biting down on an inedible object, such as a bone. This stage doesn’t last forever. 

Over time, your dentures feel more like a part of your body than a foreign appendage. They make it easier to eat, and you learn to speak with them. But what if you don’t want to wait the weeks or months it may take for you to get comfortable with your new dentures? 

Making the transition easier

If you want to ease your transition to wearing a new set of dentures, there are several steps you can take: 

• Follow the advice of your dental providers and come in for follow-up fittings 
• Wear your dentures consistently, especially at first, even if they annoy you
• Use denture adhesive to ensure they stay put and don’t slide around in your mouth 
• Keep your dentures clean, and clean them properly; dirty dentures feel even weirder
• Do regular exercises by moving your facial muscles so you have more control over them 
• Practice speaking while alone and even sing to yourself to get more comfortable 
• Eat slowly to adjust to the feel of your dentures while chewing 

Like many things in life, wearing dentures gets easier with a little practice. 

What to do if you aren't getting used to your dentures 

If it’s been over a month and you still feel like your dentures are as uncomfortable, strange, or ill-fitting as when you first got them, consider seeking help. Your provider should be monitoring you as you acclimate to your dentures, so don’t hesitate to reach out. 

At your follow-up appointment, your provider ensures your dentures fit properly. That requires an exam and possibly some adjustments. They may also ask you questions about how you care for your dentures at home and suggest additional care tips. 

Dentures are medical devices, so how you care for them affects how long it takes to get comfortable with them and how well they function. Stay in contact with your provider to ensure your dentures serve you as well as possible. 

Talk to us about dentures 

To learn more about dentures and getting used to them, book an appointment by phone or online today at our Manhattan office in the Financial District.