So, you’ve joined the club of those who have dentures?
Welcome aboard! Whether you’re planning to get dentures or you’ve been rocking them for a while, it’s important to know how to properly eat and speak with them.
Because let’s be real, you don’t want to be in the middle of an important conversation and suddenly have your dentures fly out of your mouth like a catapult. That’s not a good look.
But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this blog, we’ll be giving you some tips and tricks on how to successfully chew and communicate while wearing dentures. So, let’s dive in and get you munching and chatting like a pro!
Eating with Dentures
Eating with dentures can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re new to wearing them. But fear not, because with a little practice and some helpful tips, you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods without any problems.
Challenges of Eating with Dentures
The main challenge of eating with dentures is getting used to how they feel in your mouth. Dentures can feel bulky or loose, which can make it difficult to chew and swallow your food. Additionally, certain foods can be more difficult to eat with dentures, such as tough meats, sticky or gummy foods, and foods that require a lot of biting or tearing.
Tips for Chewing and Swallowing with Dentures
To make chewing and swallowing easier with dentures, try the following tips:
- Chew slowly and deliberately, using both sides of your mouth to evenly distribute the pressure.
- Take small bites of food and cut your food into smaller pieces if necessary.
- Drink water or another beverage with your meals to help moisten your mouth and make swallowing easier.
- Use denture adhesive to help keep your dentures in place while eating.
Speaking with Dentures
Dentures not only affect your ability to eat, but they can also have an impact on your speech. It’s not uncommon for denture wearers to experience difficulty speaking clearly, particularly when they first start wearing them. However, with some practice and helpful tips, you’ll be able to speak confidently and effectively with your dentures.
How Dentures Can Affect Speech
Dentures can cause changes to the way you speak because they occupy space in your mouth that was previously filled with natural teeth. This can make it difficult to pronounce certain words or sounds, particularly those that involve the tongue and lips. Additionally, dentures that do not fit properly can cause clicking or whistling sounds when speaking.
Tips for Speaking Clearly with Dentures
To speak clearly with dentures, try the following tips:
- Practice speaking out loud, particularly words or sounds that you find difficult to pronounce.
- Speak slowly and enunciate your words clearly.
- Take your time when speaking and avoid rushing your words.
- Use a denture adhesive to help keep your dentures in place while speaking.
General Tips for Wearing Dentures
Taking care of your dentures is essential for their longevity and your oral health. Proper care and maintenance will not only keep your dentures looking and feeling great, but it can also prevent issues like infections or sores in the mouth. Here are some general tips for wearing dentures:
- Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or denture cleaner after each use.
- Soak your dentures in water or a denture solution overnight to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out or warping.
- Rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
Conclusion
Proper denture care, regular checkups, and adjustments are all essential for maintaining the health and quality of your dentures and your oral health in general. At Parkview Dental, we understand the importance of proper denture care and maintenance, and we’re here to help. If you have any questions or concerns about your dentures or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
