Receiving dentures or partial dentures can take a lot of getting used to. Right after receiving them, they affect your ability to speak and eat – but don’t worry. Those side effects will fade as your mouth gets used to the new appliances, and the benefits of wearing dentures and partial dentures significantly outweigh the negatives. In the meantime, we have answered the top seven questions most asked by our patients receiving dentures and partial dentures in order to make your transition as easy as possible.

How Quickly Will I Adjust To Dentures?

Most people adjust to their new dentures in about a week. With a new denture, you may notice some minor disturbance in speech, but your tongue, lips, and cheeks will quickly adapt to the new shape of your mouth.

How Will Dentures Affect My Eating?

Once you are acclimated to them, properly fitted dentures improve your ability to chew, allowing your body to properly digest foods and obtain the nutrition it needs.

How Will Dentures Affect My Speech?

With a new denture, you may initially notice some minor differences in speech. Most patients find they adapt, and speech becomes natural very quickly. If you experience clicking or whistling sounds and/or slightly slurred speech, your dentures are not properly fitted, and you should contact your dentist.

When Should I Replace My Denture?

Dentures will need to be replaced every five to 10 years depending on how well they are cared for and natural changes to the mouth over time. Since it is normal for your mouth to change and denture teeth to wear down, have your dentures and partial dentures checked during a yearly dental visit.

Do I Have To Visit My Dentist As Often Now That I Have Dentures?

Even if you have lost all or some of your natural teeth, you still need to visit your dentist annually. Your dentist will be able to evaluate the fit of your denture, offer suggestions for improving your denture care and hygiene, and check for diseases like oral cancer.

How Should I Clean My Dentures And Partial Dentures?

For everyday cleaning, use a soft brush and a mild cleaning agent, such as soap and water, or products sold especially to clean dentures. Brush both the inside and outside of your denture to eliminate harmful bacteria. We also suggest soaking your dentures in water or a denture-cleaning agent when you take them out at night.

Tip:

Hold your dentures over a sink filled with water when cleaning them. That way, if you accidentally drop them, you significantly reduce the risk of breaking them.

What If My New Denture Is Causing Soreness On My Gums?

It is not unusual for a new denture to create sore spots on your gums as your mouth gets used to them. If the soreness persists longer than 10 days, call your dentist, and they will schedule a time for you to return to have your denture adjusted.