Congratulations on your new denture! You’ve taken an important step toward restoring your smile and ability to chew, speak, and live confidently. To keep your denture comfortable, clean, and long-lasting, follow these essential home-care instructions.
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 to your new smile.
Eating with Dentures
Dentures rest on your gums, not in the bone like natural teeth, so movement is natural—especially with lower dentures. With time and practice, you’ll build confidence and control.
Tips for eating more comfortably:
Start with soft foods like scrambled eggs, yogurt, cooked vegetables, fish, or pudding.
Take small bites and chew slowly.
Chew on both sides of your mouth simultaneously to balance pressure.
Avoid biting with front teeth to cut food—this can dislodge the upper denture.
Cut foods like apples or corn off the cob before eating.
Dentures reduce heat sensitivity—avoid very hot foods or drinks to prevent burns.
Speaking with Dentures
Difficulty speaking—especially with “S” and “F” sounds—is very common at first. Don’t worry! 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
Sore Spots & Adjustments
Mild soreness is common and often requires minor adjustments.
Rinse with warm salt water (¼ tsp baking soda + ⅛ tsp salt in 1 cup warm water)
Call us to schedule an adjustment appointment—be sure to wear your denture beforehand so we can locate problem areas
Most patients need one or more follow-up visits in the first few weeks
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
Denture adhesives can provide temporary stability but aren’t a long-term solution
Cleaning Your Denture
Cleaning your denture daily is critical to maintaining your oral health and the longevity of your appliance.
Denture cleaning instructions:
Brush your denture daily using a soft denture brush and non-abrasive denture paste
Never use regular toothpaste—it can scratch the surface
Soak dentures in water overnight, and use denture cleaning tablets 1–2 times a week
Always clean over a soft surface or filled sink to avoid breakage
Never use hot or boiling water—this can warp the denture
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 and rinses to protect any natural tooth structure
Visit us more frequently for checkups and cleanings
What Not to Do
To keep your denture safe:
Never place it on a napkin or tissue—you may accidentally throw it away
Always store your denture 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
Sleeping with Dentures
Unless advised otherwise, do not sleep with your denture in place. Removing it at night:
Allows your gums to rest
Promotes healthy blood circulation
Helps reduce long-term bone loss
When your denture is out:
Soak it in water to prevent drying and warping
Clean your gums, ridges, tongue, cheeks, and palate using a soft toothbrush or washcloth
Rinse daily with warm salt water
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 make your transition to wearing dentures as smooth and successful as possible!
Additional Resources
You may find these websites helpful:
Note: These resources are provided for information only. We do not specifically endorse the content provided by these third-party websites.