Getting new dentures is an exciting step toward restoring your smile, confidence, and ability to eat and speak comfortably. However, adjusting to dentures can take time, and it’s normal to experience some challenges along the way. Regardless of the type of dentures you’re getting, your mouth needs time to adapt to the new appliance.

Understanding what to expect and following the right steps can make the transition smoother.

In this guide, the Grand Falls Smiles Dentistry team will walk you through the typical denture adjustment timeline, offer practical tips, and address common complaints that may arise as you get used to your new dentures.

Timeline for New Dentures: What to Expect

The adjustment period for dentures varies from person to person, but most people go through similar stages. The first few weeks can feel unfamiliar as your gums, tongue, and facial muscles get used to your new dentures.

• First Few Days: It’s common to experience mild soreness or discomfort, especially in areas where the dentures press against your gums. You may also notice increased saliva production, as your mouth perceives the dentures as a foreign object at first. Eating and speaking might feel awkward initially.
• One to Two Weeks: By now, your mouth will start adapting, but you may still need to make small adjustments in how you chew and speak. Minor sore spots may develop as your gums adjust, but this is normal.
• Three to Four Weeks: Most people feel more comfortable wearing their dentures regularly by this point. Any initial soreness should be improving, and you’ll have more confidence in eating and speaking. If persistent discomfort remains, it’s important to check in with your dentist for possible adjustments.
• After a Month: Your dentures should feel like a natural part of your daily routine. While occasional minor adjustments may still be needed, you should be able to eat and speak comfortably. Over time, as your gums change shape, your dentures may require relining or adjustments to maintain a perfect fit.

Tips for Adjusting to Life With Dentures

Adjusting to dentures can be a process, but there are steps you can take to make the transition easier and more comfortable.

1. Be Patient and Give it Time

Dentures won’t feel perfect overnight, and that’s okay. Your mouth needs time to get used to them, and your facial muscles need to learn how to work with your new teeth. It’s important to remind yourself that discomfort, excessive saliva, and minor speech changes are all temporary. With patience and practice, your dentures will soon feel natural.

2. Wear Your Dentures Every Day

It may be tempting to take your dentures out frequently, especially if they feel uncomfortable at first. However, wearing them consistently helps your mouth adjust faster. The more you wear them, the quicker your gums, tongue, and facial muscles will learn to work with them.

At the same time, you should remove your dentures overnight to give your gums a break and allow your mouth to rest. Keeping them in all day while removing them at night strikes the right balance for a smooth adjustment.

3. Follow Your Dentist’s Guidelines

Your dentist will provide specific instructions on how to care for and adjust to your dentures. This may include guidelines on cleaning them, how long to wear them each day, and when to schedule follow-up visits. Following these recommendations is essential for ensuring a comfortable fit and maintaining your oral health.

4. Stay in Contact with Your Dentist

If you experience persistent discomfort, sore spots, or difficulty eating and speaking after a few weeks, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. Adjustments are sometimes necessary to fine-tune the fit of your dentures. Dentists are accustomed to making these refinements and can help relieve pressure points or discomfort.

Common Complaints When It Comes to Dentures

While dentures restore function and aesthetics, some people experience temporary challenges as they adjust. Here are some of the most common complaints and how to manage them:

• Sore Gums: Mild soreness is normal in the first few weeks, but it should improve with time. If soreness persists, your dentist may need to make adjustments to the fit of your dentures.
• Speech Difficulties: Some words may be harder to pronounce at first, but practicing speaking out loud can help. Reading aloud or repeating difficult words can accelerate the learning process.
• Eating Challenges: Chewing with dentures takes practice. Start with soft foods and gradually introduce firmer foods as you become more comfortable. Cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing slowly can help.
• Loose Feeling: Dentures may feel loose at first because your mouth muscles need time to adapt. Over time, they will feel more stable, but if they continue to shift, your dentist can check the fit and adjust them if needed.
• Excess Saliva: Your mouth may produce more saliva initially, but this usually normalizes after a few weeks. Sipping water or swallowing frequently can help manage excess saliva in the meantime.

The good news is that most of these issues improve within a few weeks. The key is to stay patient and give yourself time to adjust.

Dentures at Grand Falls Smiles Dentistry

At Grand Falls Smiles Dentistry, we understand that getting dentures is a significant change, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our team provides personalized denture solutions to ensure a comfortable, natural fit that restores your confidence and ability to eat and speak with ease.

If you’re considering dentures or need help adjusting to a new set, our team is ready to assist you. Whether you need an initial consultation, a fitting, or an adjustment, we’re committed to helping you achieve a smile that feels great and functions beautifully.

Take the first step toward a comfortable and confident smile and book an appointment with Grand Falls Smiles Dentistry today!