Recommendations
Recommendations for fitting your new dentures
Adjustment period
When you receive your new prostheses, it’s important to realize that there will be a period of adaptation, varying in length from person to person. Adaptation takes place on several levels, and generally takes around 2 weeks to become fully adapted.
Wearing new dentures can feel cumbersome, uncomfortable and like they’re taking up all the space in your mouth. Your mouth and mouth muscles will get used to the new dentures, and this adaptation will happen more quickly if you wear your dentures continuously (except at night). However, if you experience pain, you should have your dentures adjusted by your denturist. Please do not attempt to make the adjustments yourself, as this may damage them.
Pronouncing certain words may be more difficult with your new dentures. This is because the teeth are not positioned in the same place as on the old prostheses, and also because the teeth are probably longer than on the previous ones. The tongue needs to relearn how to position itself in the mouth and on the teeth, so that pronunciation can be corrected. This re-education of the tongue and mouth muscles is facilitated by simple exercises such as speaking, singing or reading aloud.
The diet must be modified for the first few days. Stick to a soft diet (pasta, fish, omelettes, soups) and avoid hard foods (raw vegetables, meats, nuts). It is advisable to gradually introduce more substantial foods during the period of adaptation to the new prostheses. It’s also advisable to eat more slowly and take smaller bites to avoid biting your cheeks and tongue.
The suction of the upper full denture will not be optimal when placed in the mouth. Sucking will improve over time, as the mouth muscles get used to the new dentures. With a full lower denture, the tongue and lip muscles will try to push the denture away, causing it to move. The movement will subside after a few days.
It is recommended to remove the prostheses every night. If you sometimes fail to follow this recommendation, it is advisable to remove your dentures for a period of about 2 hours a day. We also recommend brushing your gums morning and night with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Recommendations for metal partial dentures
In addition to everything described above, you may experience some sensitivity in your natural teeth. Teeth with clasps may be sensitized for a few days. If the sensitivity does not subside after a few days, the denturist will adjust the partial denture.
The metal partial denture has an insertion plane that must be respected. It’s best to perform the first insertions in front of a mirror. We strongly advise against biting the partial to insert it. This could cause the prosthesis to misalign, damage teeth or injure surrounding tissue. The partial denture must be removed in the same direction as it was inserted. You need to use your fingers for leverage.
It is advisable to consult your denturist to have your clasps reactivated when you feel that your partial denture is less stable in the mouth. We’ll do a free annual consultation to check the condition of your mouth and the fit of your dentures.