Living With Dentures in Your Life

In the U.S. alone, over 25% of individuals age 60 or older do not possess any of their natural teeth. As such, many people choose dentures as a way to avoid the embarrassment and hassle associated with missing teeth. Though some people tend to find these replacements initially uncomfortable, it only takes a little getting used to. With a few minor adjustments and some proven techniques, you can easily learn to enjoy all of the benefits that your dentures have to offer. 

Step 1 – Start off by eating softer foods when you initially start using your dentures. This will help you get used to the feeling of eating with them. As you begin to get used to softer food items, you can begin to eat harder and tougher foods. The transition to harder substances will be much easier if you take the time to gradually build yourself up to it. Additionally, you may feel a bit of discomfort when you first begin eating. By choosing softer foods, you will be able to chew and bite with ease. 

Step 2 – Take small bites. Smaller mouthfuls of good will be much easier to chew with your new replacement teeth due to the fact that you will still be getting used to the feel of them. Start off small and build up to larger mouthfuls. After a period of 3 months, you should be good to start trying your hand at normal sized bite of harder foods. 

Step 3 – Make sure to maintain your new teeth. Keep in mind that these teeth will require cleansers as opposed to toothpaste alongside a softer-bristled toothbrush. Your new teeth should be cleaned each morning and every night. To clean, simply remove the teeth from your mouth and apply the cleanser to the surface. Next, brush the teeth with your soft brush as you would with your old teeth; up and down, side to side. Make sure you are thorough, cleaning each tooth and the gums. 

Step 4 – Most people do not sleep with their new teeth, opting to leave them in water overnight in a cup of cool water to keep them moisturized. Additionally, some people choose to soak their teeth in a dental cleanser to keep them looking clean and smelling fresh. 

Step 5 – Speaking may initially pose a minor problem to some people, but can be easily overcome. Try to practice saying words aloud that are difficult to say with your new teeth. These will generally include words that include S or F sounds. Practice in front of your bathroom mirror to see just how your mouth moves when you are speaking correctly. 

Step 6 – Get in the habit of biting down on your new teeth before you begin speaking to somebody. Though there are certainly some strong bonding agents on the market, this practice will help protect you from any embarrassment should the unexpected occur. This practice will help secure your teeth in place and make your words easier to say.