Wearing dentures means adapting to the newness of these prosthetic teeth. While it’s natural to be excited about their benefits, it can take time to get used to eating and speaking. This is often the aspect of treatment many patients forget about or are unprepared for. To hurry the adjustment phase along so that a person can enjoy their favorite foods again, here are 3 tips to make wearing dentures and eating a more natural experience.
Stick to Soft Foods Initially
This is unlikely to be what a patient wants to hear after receiving custom dentures, but the truth is that it takes time for these teeth to become familiar with the chewing motion. Since natural suction and denture adhesive are often all that is holding them in place, an individual needs to practice keeping them in place when chewing and swallowing.
Also, the early stages of denture wear can be a bit uncomfortable, as the prosthetic rests on top of the gums all day. Soft foods can minimize any soreness. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, oatmeal, soft fruits and vegetables, soft bread, and other similar foods can be a good first step to reclaiming a normal eating routine.
Practice Chewing
Once a person begins to incorporate denser foods into their diet, the key is to practice chewing. This requires using both sides of the mouth. This may seem odd, as most individuals use only one side of the mouth to chew; however, with dentures, it’s necessary to keep the prosthetic from popping up by applying too much pressure to one side.
Although it might be difficult at first, it’s recommended that foods be cut up into small pieces so that they can properly fit toward the back of the mouth to allow for chewing on both sides.
Avoid Sticky Foods
Wearing dentures and attempting to eat anything sticky will more than likely cause a person embarrassment. Caramel, gum, peanut butter, and other similar substances can stick and make it difficult to eat without the denture popping out of place.
Also, trying to remove a piece of food from dentures can be time-consuming – something a person will want to avoid while out with friends, colleagues, or family.
In just a few weeks, patients with dentures can expect to resume normal eating habits, but it’s worth the time and effort in those initial days to allow for proper healing while getting used to one’s new smile.
About Grand Dental – Wilmington
At Grand Dental – Wilmington, tooth loss sufferers can improve their bite force with the help of customized dentures. Made to replicate the look of a smile, they make it possible for individuals to eat certain foods again as well as exude more confidence because of their complete, vibrant smile. Visit our website or call (815) 240-8822 to discover more ways to adjust to your new custom prosthetics.