Our dentists in Grand Rapids, MI may recommend dentures to replace missing teeth. Yet, it’s important to understand that there’s a transition period while you’re getting used to wearing dentures.
It’s not uncommon for people to lisp until they get used to speaking around dentures. Likewise, patients may not realize that it’s still important to protect their gum health.
Continue reading to learn our expert tips for how to get used to wearing dentures.
Even if you have full dentures, it’s important that you brush your gums. Otherwise, food particles and plaque will build up on the surface of your gums and increase your risk of gingivitis. While gingivitis is reversible, the same can’t be said once it progresses into periodontal disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 47.2% of Americans age 30 and older have periodontal disease. Don’t be one of them.
Since your dentures sit on top of your gums, you’ll want to do everything you can to avoid gingivitis and periodontal disease. We recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles to help stimulate gums and keep them healthy.
Brush denture teeth like you would natural ones. If you have partial dentures, you’ll need to make sure you also take care of the remaining teeth in your smile by brushing twice a day and flossing once daily.
If you don’t brush your dentures, bacteria will build up on the surface and give you bad breath. Neglecting denture care can also discolor or stain your false teeth. Our dentists will make sure you understand how to care for your new dentures before leaving our office so you can take control of your oral health.
When your dentures aren’t in your mouth, they should be submerged in a glass of water or cleanser. While natural teeth are constantly bathed in saliva, you’ll need to make sure you never let your full or partial dentures dry out lest they crack and warp.
Talking with a lisp is normal while getting used to new dentures. It will take some time for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to get used to speaking around a new oral appliance. We recommend keeping a running list of words that give you difficulty. Later, you’ll be able to practice these words so you can get used to speaking while wearing dentures.
Once you get used to your full or partial dentures, the lisp will disappear. We recommend reading out loud from one of your favorite books in the meantime.
Your dentures will slip occasionally when you sneeze, cough, laugh, or smile. When you feel your dentures slipping, gently bite down and swallow. Doing this will help you discretely adjust your dentures while in public.
If you notice your dentures slipping more than usual, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with one of our family dentists as soon as possible. They’ll be able to adjust the fit of your dentures so they look natural and fit comfortably.
Our denture dentists in Grand Rapids, MI want to help you restore your smile after tooth loss. To request an appointment, call Contemporary Family Dental at (616) 209-3969.
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