Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI
Dentures can restore function and aesthetics to people’s smiles, helping them feel more confident during an otherwise daunting transition. Learning to eat and speak with new dentures can be a challenge that requires time and patience. Our family dentist in Royal Oak compiled the following tips to help you navigate the process smoothly:
-
Have patience
Adjusting to dentures can take some time. Dentures may at first feel bulky or uncomfortable, and you may find it difficult to eat or speak. Be patient with yourself as you adapt to this significant change. While it’s common and normal to experience some discomfort at first, those feelings will improve as you become accustomed to wearing your dentures.
-
Follow proper denture care procedures
Just like with natural teeth, having a strong oral hygiene routine will help the longevity and comfort of your new dentures. Dentures require regular cleaning to prevent plaque buildup and ensure freshness — no different than natural teeth. Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and bacteria. Be sure to remove your dentures at night to give your gums a chance to rest and recover.
-
Start with soft foods
As you’re growing accustomed to wearing your new dentures, our Birmingham family dentist recommends sticking to soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup and scrambled eggs. As you feel more comfortable, you can gradually add firmer foods. Avoid sticky or hard foods that can get into your dentures and cause discomfort. Cutting your food into smaller pieces and chewing slowly and evenly can help prevent slipping or irritation.
-
Practice speaking
Speaking with dentures may feel awkward at first because they can affect the way your tongue and lips move. To improve your speech clarity, practice reading aloud or repeating challenging words and phrases. Take your time to enunciate each word clearly, and try to spend a few minutes each day practicing in front of a mirror. With practice, your tongue and oral muscles will adapt to your dentures, and your speech will become more natural.
-
Come see us!
Regular visits to our dentist office in Royal Oak will help us monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. We can make adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and address any issues or concerns that you may have. Routine dental exams allow us to assess the health of your gums and oral tissues, helping to prevent any potential complications.
Sleep apnea dentist in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan
We know adjusting to dentures can be challenging, but we are here to help. Call us at Hartrick Dentistry, (248) 712-1149, or reach us online today if you have questions or any issues with your dentures.