Practicalities of Denture Wearing

Post by: Gerarda on 08 Jan 2020

Today´s blog, part 3 of a 6-part series.

How is the denture held in the mouth?
The denture is held in the mouth by creating a seal with the roof of the mouth. Otherwise, a denture adhesive, denture glue or denture cream can be used to help keep the denture in place. A small amount of denture adhesive is applied to the denture to help improve the retention and stability instead of depending on suction or metal clasps. This also provides an extra sense of security especially if you are new to wearing dentures.

Denture adhesive is not meant to be a substitute for a poor-fitting denture or as an alternative to visiting your dentist.

As we are all individuals it stands to reason that each mouth is also individual, therefore, each denture is custom-made.

How will dentures affect the way I eat and drink?
While eating and drinking require practice it will be best to start with soft foods like pasta, fish and rice. Eat on both sides of your mouth and slowly introduce more solid foods as you feel more confident. Avoid eating sticky or chewy foods. Over time the tongue and cheeks will get used to the denture and will automatically be engaged in keeping the denture in place. The quicker you start introducing more solid food the faster you will forget about the denture as it will become a part of you.

Will I ever get used to speaking with my new denture?
1. Practice. Practice. Practice. It will require active practice on your part, but it will become easier the more you practice. Begin by saying words out loud that start with the letters F, S and Th.

2. Practice in front of a mirror – Look at where your tongue, lips and denture are and make necessary adjustments. You know how something should sound so you will be able to adjust accordingly.

3. Practice reading aloud – Whether it is your favorite book, a piece of poetry or a tongue twister practice reading out loud so you build confidence in speaking outside your family circle.

It is like anything new you get, it is important to practice!