Caring for your new denture or partial

Give yourself a little time

A new denture or partial can feel bulky and strange for the first week or so. You might notice extra saliva, a slight lisp, or a sore spot where the edge rubs. All of that is normal, and it settles down as your mouth adapts and we fine-tune the fit. Here's how to make the adjustment easier and keep your denture in good shape for years.

The first few weeks

Expect a few adjustment visits. Almost every new denture needs small tweaks as your gums settle. Don't try to file or bend it yourself. Call us and we'll take care of it.
Start with softer foods. Cut food into smaller pieces and chew on both sides at once to keep the denture balanced. Work up to tougher foods as you get comfortable.
Practice talking. Reading out loud for a few minutes a day helps your tongue and lips get used to the new shape. Any lisp usually fades within a week or two.
Sore spots are common. If a spot stays tender for more than a couple of days, let us know so we can adjust that area.
Wear it as directed. Some patients are asked to keep the denture in for the first 24 hours; others can remove it right away. Follow the instructions you were given at your Milford or Henniker visit.

Daily cleaning

Take the denture out and rinse it after eating to clear away food.
Brush it once a day with a soft denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser. Regular toothpaste is too rough and can scratch the surface.
Use a soft toothbrush on your gums, tongue, and palate every day. If you have a partial, brush and floss your natural teeth as usual.
Sleep without it, or give your mouth a break of six hours or more each day, so your gums can rest.
Store it in water or a denture-soaking solution when it's out of your mouth. Letting it dry out can change its shape.
Handle it over a folded towel or a sink of water. Dentures can break if they're dropped on a hard surface.

Keeping the fit right over time

Your gums and jawbone change shape slowly over the years, and a denture that once fit well can start to loosen. A loose denture can rub, trap food, and speed up bone loss. Plan on a yearly checkup so your dentist in Milford or Henniker can check the fit, look at the health of your gums, and reline or adjust the denture if needed.