3 Tips for Getting Used to Dentures

Getting dentures for the first time takes some adjustment. Anytime you introduce something foreign to the soft tissues of the mouth, such as getting braces, it can take some time to get used to. There may be some soreness and general discomfort. But once your mouth gets accustomed to the dentures you’ll likely find that you can eat and talk more easily than you could before.

There are different types of dentures. Some are removable and others are fixed, such as implant supported dentures. Some are partial and others consist of a complete arch of teeth. Whatever type of dentures you get, there are ways to make the transition a bit easier. Try these 3 tips for getting used to dentures.

Start with soft foods. Eating is definitely one of the biggest challenges to getting used to dentures, but this is one of the main purposes of your dentures. Once you get used to eating with dentures you will find that you can eat most things you could eat before and even some things you couldn’t if your teeth were causing you pain.
Ease into eating with dentures by starting with soft foods. As you get used to eating the softer foods, gradually ease into chewier and harder foods. If you’re experiencing sore gums or cheeks, give yourself a few days before trying harder foods to allow your mouth to heal.
Take breaks from your dentures. You don’t have to wear your dentures all the time, but the longer you wear them the sooner your mouth will get used to them. If you’re experiencing a great deal of pain or discomfort, try taking them out every 4 hours or so for a short period of time to let your mouth rest.
Removable dentures are usually removed at night while you sleep. This gives you the longest rest period from your dentures each day. A lot of healing can happen overnight. Try rinsing your mouth with salt water after removing your dentures at night, as it can help to accelerate healing.
Go back to your dentist for readjustments. Sometimes dentures don’t fit exactly right at first. If you are experiencing severe discomfort or if your dentures fail to stay in place, call your dentist. It may be necessary to go back in order to have your dentures adjusted for a better fit.

How do you know if your dentures are poorly fitting or if you’re just in need of a longer adjustment period? If your dentures seem to slip around a lot or fail to suction properly, they may need to be adjusted. A change in adhesives can also help. Another sign of poorly fitting dentures is if your gums feel like they are being pinched. Call your dentist if you experience any of these symptoms.

Get Dentures or Denture Adjustments at Oakdale Dental Associates

If you’re in need of dentures or if you need your dentures adjusted, Oakdale Dental Associates can help. We offer a complete range of dental services, including denture fittings, adjustments, and repairs. If you need multiple or all of your teeth replaced, dentures are an affordable option. Dental insurance will likely cover part of the cost of your dentures. Oakdale Dental Associates accepts many dental insurance plans and is a participating provider with a long list of insurance companies.

Call 413-536-1782 or request an appointment today. We look forward to helping you get the most from your dentures.

Traditional vs Implant Supported Dentures

Are you in need of full mouth teeth replacement? A complete arch or row of artificial teeth is called a denture (also known as a prosthesis). There are two basic types of dentures: traditional and implant supported dentures. Both options have their pros and cons. If you’re trying to decide which option would be better for you, consider this comparison.

Traditional Dentures

These are basically the same type of dentures that have been used for decades, just with advancements in design that have improved their fit and appearance. Traditional dentures attach to the gums via adhesives and suction. They are typically removed at night while you sleep and soaked in a cleaning solution.

Pros of Traditional Dentures

Removable for easy cleaning. Traditional dentures are easy to remove, clean, and store.
Cost effective. When you need a full mouth replacement, traditional dentures are one of the most affordable options.
Allow you to eat the foods you need for proper nutrition. Traditional dentures are sturdy enough to allow you to eat the foods you need and love.

Cons of Traditional Dentures

Can slip out of place. Even with the best adhesives, traditional dentures can slip out of place when eating or talking.
Require the purchase of adhesives. You’ll need to purchase denture adhesives for the duration of the time you wear traditional dentures, which will most likely be for the rest of your life.
May irritate gums. Dentures can pinch and irritate the gums and eventually cause damage.
Bone loss in the jaw can occur. Because traditional dentures sit on top of the gums with no roots, bone loss of the jaw is likely to occur over time.

Implant Supported Dentures

As the name suggests, implant supported dentures attach to the jaw via a few dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. A few implants will be placed in each jaw, between 2 and 6, depending on your needs. Dentures can then be permanently attached to the implants or can be removable by patient. This makes it a little easier for patients to clean the dentures.

Pros of Implant Supported Dentures

Sturdy hold. With dental implants in the jaw bone acting as anchors, implant supported dentures will not slip out of place when eating or talking.
Preserve jaw bone. The implants fuse with the jaw bone, offering support and promoting bone health and density in the jaw.
Function like natural teeth. Implant supported dentures function as similarly to natural teeth as possible, aside from a full mouth of implants.

Cons of Implant Supported Dentures

More expensive than traditional dentures. Getting dental implants placed is a more costly procedure than getting traditional dentures.
More invasive. Dental implants have to be surgically placed, meaning the procedure is more invasive and will require anesthesia.
Longer procedure. From start to finish, getting fitted for implant supported dentures will take longer than traditional dentures.

Choosing the Right Option for You

Implant supported dentures have many benefits over traditional dentures. Most dentists would recommend this option first, unless cost is your biggest priority. Talk to your dentist about your lifestyle and concerns so that they can help you determine the best option for you.

Oakdale Dental Associates Can Help You Restore Your Smile

If you need all or a significant amount of your teeth replaced, dentures may be the best option. Oakdale Dental Associates can restore your teeth using traditional or implant supported dentures. We specialize in a wide range of restorative dental procedures in Holyoke, MA.

Call 413-536-1782 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to restoring your smile for a lifetime.