Getting used to your new dentures from your dentist in Kennesaw
As a skilled dentures dentist in Kennesaw, Dr. Vo understands that getting used to new dentures can take a little bit of time. Even with the challenges that may come from your new denture appliance, the benefits of this treatment, with or without support from dental implants, is worth the effort of learning new habits.
The most common issues with new dentures will occur in the first days after you receive your new appliance. This does not mean that there is a problem with fit, or that you are not a good candidate for dentures. It simply means that your tongue, cheeks, and lips have to grow accustomed to these new teeth and gum fixtures.
We hope, as your dentures dentist in Kennesaw, that being prepared will help you through the process of getting new dentures at 32 Dental. The four common challenges that new dentures present include:
Irritation
With new dentures in place, even with a strong adhesive, eating may result in minor irritation. To combat this challenge upon receiving new dentures, try starting out with soft foods until the irritation subsides. Add new foods as your gums heal and you learn to chew with your new appliance. Should irritation become overwhelming, remove dentures, and contact our office for an assessment of gums and your denture appliance. When dentures are causing irritation that seems too much, wear them on your way to your review appointment so your dentures dentist in Kennesaw can immediately see areas of concern.
Fit
Initially, it is common for a new denture appliance to feel somewhat loose. This is especially common with lower dentures. Fit should improve with time, as the muscles of the mouth adapt to their new fixture. For the first night or two, it is acceptable to wear your dentures while you sleep. This prolonged wear encourages the tongue, lips, and cheeks to adjust. After the first two days, fit should feel much better and dentures should be removed for sleep.
Eating
Dentures have long been associated with eating dilemmas. Even with today's advanced dentures that fit far better than their predecessors did, eating should be approached carefully at first. Starting out slow is your best bet for helping the mouth become accustomed to eating with your new appliance. Liquids and soft foods are best for the first week or so, with harder foods reserved for the time when you are feeling more comfortable with the fit of dentures.
Eating can be made easier by cutting food into smaller pieces, which are easier to chew. Biting down with the front teeth should also be avoided, as this may cause dentures to dislodge. Biting and chewing are best performed with back teeth. When chewing, using both sides of the mouth promotes balance and helps dentures stay firmly situated.
Speaking
Within the first week, it is common for patients to experience an increase in salivation; however, this will diminish quickly. We encourage our denture patients to talk as much as possible while at home. With practice, speech will sound just as it did with natural teeth.
About Dr. Sean Breckley
A graduate from the Temple University School of Dentistry and Susquehanna University, Dr. Sean Breckley is an established professional in the field of dentistry. He is a firm believer of contributing to the community and ensuring his patients receive the best possible dental care. Whilst maintaining his professionalism, Dr. Breckley takes time to get to know his patients and make sure they are comfortable and at ease to avoid any unnecessary dental anxiety and stress. He is presently a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Northwest District Dental Society, and a graduate of the Mercer Mastery Program.
About Dr. Lan Vo
A graduate from the University of California-Irvine and Temple University School of Dentistry, Dr. Lan Vo is a highly skilled and resourceful dentist in the field of professional dentistry. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Northwest District Dental Society, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a graduate of the Mercer Mastery Program whilst maintaining a certification with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Dr. Vo is very people-oriented and is a favorite amongst children and commands a great deal of trust amongst anyone who has had the fortune of being treated by her.