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Getting Used to Your Denture
New dentures often feel bulky or awkward at first — this is completely normal. Expect a
2 to 4-week adjustment period as your mouth and muscles adapt.
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Speaking with Dentures
Difficulty speaking — especially with “S” and “F” sounds — is very common at first. Your tongue,
cheeks, and lips need time to adjust.
Speed up your speech adjustment by
- Reading aloud daily
- Speaking in front of a mirror
- Swallowing before talking to “set” your denture
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Eating with Dentures
Dentures rest on your gums (not in the bone like natural teeth), so slight movement is normal — especially with
lower dentures. With time and practice, you’ll build confidence and control.
Tips for eating more comfortably
- Start with soft foods: scrambled eggs, yogurt, cooked vegetables, fish, or pudding
- Take small bites and chew slowly
- Chew on both sides at the same time to balance pressure
- Avoid biting with front teeth to cut food (may dislodge the upper denture)
- Cut foods like apples or corn off the cob before eating
- Dentures reduce heat sensitivity — avoid very hot foods/drinks to prevent burns
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Sore Spots & Adjustments
Mild soreness is common and often requires minor adjustments.
💡 Comfort Rinse
Rinse with warm salt water:
¼ tsp baking soda + ⅛ tsp salt in 1 cup warm water.
- Call us to schedule an adjustment appointment
- Wear your denture beforehand so we can locate problem areas accurately
- Most patients need one or more follow-up visits in the first few weeks
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Loose Dentures
If you had teeth extracted before receiving your denture, your gums will shrink as they heal, causing looseness
over time.
🚫 Important Reminders
You may need a denture reline once healing is complete. Never attempt to adjust or repair your denture at home.
Adhesives can help temporarily but aren’t a long-term solution.
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Cleaning Your Denture
Cleaning your denture daily is critical for your oral health and the longevity of your appliance.
Denture cleaning instructions
- Brush daily using a soft denture brush and non-abrasive denture paste
- Never use regular toothpaste (it can scratch the surface)
- Soak in water overnight; use cleaning tablets 1–2 times per week
- Clean over a soft surface or a filled sink to prevent breakage
- Never use hot or boiling water (may warp the denture)
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If You Have an Overdenture
If your denture is supported by implants or remaining tooth roots, take extra care:
- Brush inside your mouth at least twice a day
- Floss daily around supporting teeth
- Use fluoride toothpaste/rinses to protect natural tooth structure
- Visit us more frequently for checkups and cleanings
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What Not to Do
- Never place your denture on a napkin or tissue (it can be thrown away accidentally)
- Always store it in a case or soaking solution when not in use
- Keep dentures away from pets — dogs love to chew them!
- Do not use bleach or household cleaners on your denture
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Sleeping with Dentures
Unless advised otherwise, do not sleep with your denture in place. Removing it at night allows your gums to rest,
promotes circulation, and helps reduce long-term bone loss.
When your denture is out
- Soak it in water to prevent drying and warping
- Clean gums, ridges, tongue, cheeks, and palate with a soft toothbrush or washcloth
- Rinse daily with warm salt water
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When to Contact Us
Call our office if you experience:
- Persistent sore spots
- Looseness or discomfort
- A broken or damaged denture
- Questions about adhesives or cleaning products
✅ We’re Here to Help
We’re here to make your transition to wearing dentures as smooth and successful as possible.
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Additional Resources
Contact Us