Sciota, Pennsylvania
The latest U.S. Census data indicates that almost 41 million Americans have dentures. If you have chosen dentures to replace your missing teeth and restore your smile, you may have questions about how to care for them. That’s why Drs. Brian Chiusano and David Miller composed this five-step guide to help you adjust to your new dentures.
Step 1: Embrace patience and understanding
Adjusting to dentures is a gradual process, but essential for a positive experience. Most patients typically require around 30 days to feel entirely comfortable with their new dentures. Initial discomfort is common, including soreness, increased salivation and tight facial muscles during the first few weeks. Our dentists in Sciota recommend pacing yourself, especially when it comes to eating. Start off by taking smaller bites of soft foods, progressively transitioning to a more varied diet. Should you experience persistent discomfort, do not hesitate to contact our office for adjustments and professional guidance.
Step 2: Practice speech and vocal exercises
Speech may feel different with dentures, and practicing can significantly contribute to a smoother adjustment. Stand in front of a mirror and repeat various words and phrases to enhance your diction. Additionally, singing along to your favorite songs is an enjoyable and effective way to improve oral muscle coordination. Regular practice aids your mouth in adapting to the presence of dentures, making it easier to articulate and enunciate. This proactive approach enhances your confidence in speech, making communication more comfortable and natural.
Step 3: Incorporate facial muscle exercises
Building strength in your facial muscles is instrumental in achieving better control while eating and minimizing discomfort associated with dentures.
Integrate facial exercises into your daily routine, such as:
- Smiling widely for at least 10 seconds several times a day;
- Opening your mouth slightly, keeping your upper lip relaxed, wrinkling your nose and flaring your nostrils in an exaggerated motion; or
- Pulling your top lip up and holding it there for 10 seconds.
- Repeat these exercises to enhance muscle engagement.
- Facial muscle exercises contribute to improved denture control and reduced discomfort, allowing your muscles to adapt to your new oral appliance.
Step 4: Consider denture adhesive for comfort
If you experience irritation during the initial stages of wearing dentures, a dental cream or adhesive can provide relief. However, it’s crucial to use such products as a temporary solution and not as a substitute for well-fitted dentures. If you find yourself heavily relying on adhesives, consult with our dentists to ensure your dentures fit correctly.
Step 5: Regular communication with your dentist
Maintaining contact with your dentist is a crucial aspect of the adjustment process. If you encounter challenges or have questions about adapting to your new dentures, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist.
Dentures in Sciota, Pennsylvania
Adapting to new dentures is a transformative process that not only restores your smile but enhances your overall confidence and quality of life. Whether you’re receiving partial or full dentures, you can follow this comprehensive guide to ease into your new oral appliance seamlessly. Quiet Valley Dental is proud to offer both partial and full dentures to our patients. To find out more, contact our office online or call (570) 992-0740.
