Dentures can cause pain when you first wear them. However, this pain should subside once you get used to them. You may experience pain intermittently as your dentures loosen up and rub on your gums. Your dentist may suggest a diet of soft foods until your mouth and gums adapt to your new appliance.
Types
Complete dentures refer to a total upper and lower set of false teeth. They may consist of acrylic resin in combination with other materials. Partial dentures fill the gaps of two or more missing teeth. This type of denture -- also is known as a removable partial denture -- may include metal clasps to help secure them in place. Flippers, which snap in place, usually need to be removed when you eat since they aren't secured.
Adapting
Learning to talk and eat with your new dentures may feel like a challenge. You might feel awkward wearing your dentures for the first few weeks as you become accustomed to them. You also may experience times when your dentures feel loose. They may slip out of place when you laugh, eat, smile or cough. Denture adhesive, if you use it properly, may prevent this from occurring.
Restrictions
As a new denture wearer, you should avoid certain foods. For example, your dentures may break if you bite down on hard or crunchy foods; this may result from the angle in which your denture comes into contact with the food. Foods that may damage your appliance include apples, large sandwiches, hard pretzels and crusty breads. You also should avoid hard candies.
Soft Diet
Your dentist may recommend you eat softer foods while you're adjusting to your new set of teeth. Safe food choices include eggs, pudding, gelatin, cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, soup, fish and chopped meat. Add chewier foods as your gums heal and you learn how to chew while wearing dentures.
Recommendations
Dentists usually recommend replacing your dentures or partials every five to 10 years. When you don't have teeth to support your jawbone structure, you may slowly experience bone and gum loss. This leads to loose dentures that rub and cause blisters. Proper replacement and denture adhesives can help you maintain a tight, stationary fit.
