Your new dentures are a substitute for your own teeth. Even though they have been constructed just for you, because they are artificial, they can't be expected to be as efficient.
The tongue, cheek, and lip muscles must be trained to keep the dentures in place during chewing and speaking. The successful use of your dentures depends on the effort invested to master them – please persevere, as the advantages are well worthwhile!
• It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness and a strange sense of bulk in your mouth. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth and facial muscles become accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish. The sore spots, resulting from places of pressure from the denture, are almost impossible to avoid. After you've persevered for a few hours, if any problem persists, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult the denturist. One or more follow-up appointments are not unusual after a denture is inserted.
• Eating will take a little practice. Learning to chew satisfactorily with new dentures generally takes 6–8 weeks. Start with soft foods, cutting everything into small pieces rather than trying to bite with your front teeth, as this will dislodge the denture. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet.
• Thickness in your speech and perhaps a lisp are also common symptoms which will usually correct themselves in a short period of time. Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures "click" while you're talking, speak more slowly.
• Your dentures may slip occasionally when you laugh, cough or smile. Reposition the dentures gently with your fingers.
• Denture adhesives may improve the fit of loose dentures. You are best advised by the dental professional who originally fitted the dentures. Returning to them periodically for inspection will prevent long-term damage to oral tissue by ill-fitting dentures.