Is It Difficult to Get Used to Fixed Dentures?

Unlike traditional fully removable dentures, fixed dentures are permanently affixed in your mouth. Your prosthetic dentures are supported on a few dental implants, which gives you the coverage of dentures and the stability of implants.

This is why fixed dentures are a popular prosthetic option here at The Dental Center of Hercules in Hercules, California.

If you find yourself asking this question — “Is it difficult to get used to fixed dentures?” — then read on as Dr. Lovely Manlapaz Teodoro discusses the adjustment period.

What to expect in your initial adjustment period

All dentures require an adjustment period, and fixed dentures are no exception. Getting used to fixed dentures can take some time.

Initially, you’ll recover from your implant placement surgery. While implant placement surgery shouldn’t hurt (thanks to anesthetics), you may experience some pain and swelling that lasts for a few days. You’ll need to stick with a soft diet while your mouth heals.

Getting used to eating and speaking with your new dentures

Once your dentures are secured to your implant posts, you may notice changes in how your mouth feels and functions. This is normal as your tongue and muscles adjust to the presence of your new fixed dentures.

Tips for eating with new dentures

Eating with fixed dentures may require patience as you learn how to chew effectively. Start with softer foods. Soft food doesn’t have to be bland!

Consider:

Soup — both hot and cold varieties can make your meals more exciting
Yogurt
Cottage cheese
Scrambled eggs, omelets, or even sous vide-style eggs
Pureed fruits and veggies
Gelatin and pudding
Smoothies and milkshakes
Mashed potatoes (add in cheese, garlic, or fresh herbs for more flavor)

As you get used to your dentures, gradually reintroduce a variety of textures. As you shift from soft foods and start to eat some of your favorites, cut your food into smaller-than-normal pieces while you learn to chew with your dentures.

Tips for speaking with new dentures

Similarly, speaking may feel different initially, but practicing speaking aloud can help improve clarity. Although it may feel awkward at first, try reading books or poems out loud so you can practice speaking.

Learning how to care for fixed dentures

It’s not difficult to care for your new fixed dentures. Because they’re secured by implants, there’s no need to remove them, soak them, or store them in a case. You simply brush your teeth as usual.

You’ll need to use a soft toothbrush with a nonabrasive toothpaste.

Are fixed dentures right for you?

All dentures restore your ability to chew thoroughly, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. Fixed dentures also give you added peace of mind that you’ll never have to worry about messy denture glue or dentures that slide out of place.

You might consider fixed dentures if: