Will It Take Long to Adjust to Implant Dentures?

Receiving implant dentures is one of the most beneficial and worthwhile investments you can make in your smile. Not only do these prosthetics promise greater permanency and stability, but they can last 30 years or even a lifetime as long as you commit to taking proper care of them. But how long will it take to adjust to these new teeth, and will it be a difficult process? Read on to hear from a dentist who explains what you can expect when it comes to life with implant dentures.

Post-Implant Surgery Expectations

Immediately following your oral surgery, you will likely feel some soreness. This is normal, as your gums and bone must heal. The initial days following your procedure will require some adjustments that will likely include:

• Eating soft foods to minimize chewing – Pressure caused by chewing will only result in more discomfort. It is best to stick to soft foods for 1-2 weeks so that your mouth can properly heal.
• Drinking plenty of water – Water not only helps to keep you hydrated, but it also flushes out any bad oral bacteria and food particles that may try to negatively affect your oral health.
• Limiting your sugar intake – While sweets may be tempting during this time, it’s best to limit your consumption immediately following your surgery. Sugar can lead to cavities and gum disease, which can cause dental implant failure if left untreated.
• Practicing good oral hygiene – Although you will need to be careful brushing and flossing around your surgical sites, you will need to maintain good oral hygiene habits to avoid the development of decay and bacteria. Follow the instructions provided by your dentist regarding proper ways to clean your teeth.

Living with Implant Dentures

An important component of adjusting to implant dentures is that you will need to talk. Depending on how long it took you to commit to this type of treatment to replace your missing teeth, you may have become accustomed to speaking without a complete smile.

Once your implants and customized denture are in place, you may find it challenging to say certain words or even feel comfortable speaking in front of others at first. One of the best ways to overcome this fear and normalize your speech again is to keep talking. Whether it is practicing in front of the mirror, reading aloud, or chatting with your spouse or best friend, the more you talk, the easier it will become.

When receiving implant dentures, remember that no two patients are the same, so your adjustment phase might be shorter or longer than someone else. The important thing to keep in mind is that once you see your new, complete, and fully functional smile, you’ll begin to enjoy all the benefits it offers.

About the Author

Dr. John E. Russo earned his dental DMD degree with honors from the University of Florida in 1993. He also earned his Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) from Wright-Patterson Medical Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. As a skilled dentist, he can improve smiles using advanced methods like dental implants. By making the switch to a more permanent smile, you’ll enjoy many of the great benefits only dental implants can provide. Visit our website or call (407) 470-1224 to learn more.

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