Making the transition to dentures

Dentures are a great option for those who are missing teeth because dentures can boost your confidence and improve your quality of life. However, as with any change, initially getting dentures may take some adjusting to as your body adapts.

Here are tips to help make your transition to dentures easier:

Continue to wear your dentures as your mouth adapts. See your dentist as needed for adjustments.
Practice eating. Here are tips for eating with your new dentures::
- Choose soft foods
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Cut food into small pieces
- Bite carefully and chew slowly
- Chew using both sides of your mouth
Practice talking. Just like with eating, speaking will also get easier with practice.
- Tip: Read aloud to get used to talking with dentures and to get used to how they feel in your mouth. Just like with eating, speaking will also get easier with practice.
Clean your dentures daily with a denture cleanser and denture brush. Learn more about cleaning your dentures here.
Take your dentures out at bedtime to give your gums a rest while you sleep.

Common issues for new denture wearers

Some common issues may occur when you first start wearing your dentures. These are common and will most likely go away.

Increased saliva
Soreness of the mouth muscles or along the gums
The sensation that your dentures are loose or too big – your tongue and mouth muscles will soon adjust and help keep your dentures in place

As always, you can contact your Aspen Dental practice if you are uncomfortable or have questions about your new dentures. Your Aspen Dental practice will make any adjustments as needed to help with your comfort level.

If you’re using a lot of denture adhesive your dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced. Denture adhesives are a great way to help you get used to your new dentures, but avoid extended use of denture adhesives. A loose-fitting denture can cause irritation, mouth sores, and infection, and a quick adjustment to your denture will likely fix the issue. In most cases, your denture team can make same-day adjustments.

Living well with dentures

When you have dentures, oral care is still very important. Routine exams are recommended to maintain overall oral health. Here are some at-home tips:

Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth before you put in your dentures and before bed.
Eat a balanced diet.
If you have remaining teeth, you’ll still need to follow your recommended hygiene schedule to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
If you have no remaining teeth, your dentist will need to routinely examine your gums and check the fit of your dentures.

Dentures FAQs

Will dentures really help?

Losing your teeth can be painful – in more ways than one. But it's a problem that can be resolved with excellent results. Dentists with Aspen Dental and staff can provide you with a comfortable, attractive substitute to your natural teeth that, with proper care, will help you live a healthier, happier life.

What is the denture money back guarantee?

The Denture Money Back Guarantee is our promise that you’ll get your money back if you’re not happy with your dentures. If you’re not happy with your dentures, we’ll make them right, or your money back.

The Denture Money Back Guarantee applies to all full and partial dentures and covers the cost of the denture(s) only. The refund request must be submitted within 90 days after insert of final denture or hard reline. Denture(s) must be returned within 90 days after refund request date.

Dentures are expensive. How do I know I’m getting a good price?

No doubt, dentures are an investment. But the confidence, comfort, and freedom they provide can be invaluable. At Aspen Dental, we always offer our patients low everyday prices and no surprises – we’ll provide a clear, detailed estimate on the cost of your treatment plan in writing, so you know what to expect.

How long will dentures last?

Between 5 and 7 years. Just like natural teeth, dentures wear down and stain with age. Your mouth is constantly changing. To make sure your dentures fit properly, they will need adjustments from time to time. We suggest seeing your dentist yearly for a denture check-up. You should always notify your dentist at the first sign of irritation, no matter how minor it may seem. Your health and comfort are important.

Will dentures affect my appearance?

Aspen Dental dentures are custom-crafted to suit you - making them incredibly comfortable and natural looking.

At the beginning of the denture process, there is a "try-in" period. Your teeth will be positioned in wax so you and your dentist can see what your dentures will look like. This is a great opportunity to discuss the appearance and make adjustments, so you'll be happy with the end result.

Many patients notice that once they get dentures, pronounced facial lines are softened, giving them a more youthful look. We want our denture patients to be proud of their smile. Don't be afraid to show it.

How will dentures affect my eating?

Adjusting to dentures takes time and patience, but you'll get used to them before you know it. Our dentists will be happy to help you work through any challenges and explain the best ways to get used to biting and chewing with your new dentures.

How quickly will I adjust to dentures?

Dentures may feel strange at first. They may seem too big, and you may notice an increase in saliva. This is normal. Once your facial muscles and oral tissues adapt, your dentures should feel very comfortable. Some people adjust to dentures in a week, while others take a little longer.

How should I clean my dentures?

Always clean your dentures over a basin of water or a damp towel to avoid breakage if you drop them. Hold them gently between your thumb and fingers and brush them using a denture brush and denture cleaner or soap - all readily available at any drugstore. Use only lukewarm water and avoid gritty pastes or powders. You should clean your dentures after every meal.

Will dentures affect my speech?

There may be minor differences at first. Don't be concerned. Once your mouth is accustomed to the change, this should subside. Reading aloud is an excellent exercise for helping to restore normal speech quickly.

Should I remove my dentures at night?

Every case is different. Your dentist will let you know what's right for you. There are special precautions to take with your dentures when they are not being used. Your dentist will explain these to you.

Can I use store-bought liners?

Never attempt to reline your dentures. You could seriously damage your dentures and injure your mouth. If you have any problems, call us. We’re trained to recognize and treat them. Adhesive powders and pastes may be used according to manufacturer's instructions.