Eat, Drink and Be Merry with Dentures or Partials

There are lots of reasons people of all ages may require dentures or partials. Many people worry about how dentures will affect their daily lives, including cost, smiling, eating, and speaking. However, affordable quality dentures are easily found by discussing the available options with your dental care professional. And, with more than 50 million Americans wearing dentures or partials to improve their quality of life, you can learn to eat, drink, and be merry comfortably with dentures or partials. It takes a little time, some practice, and patience, but you can easily enjoy the same freedoms with dentures or partials as you did with a full set of teeth.

Eating with Dentures or Partials

Initially, eating with dentures or partials may seem like a complicated task; however, with time and practice, you will begin to feel comfortable again and eating with your new set of teeth will become second nature. To make the progression toward normal eating with your dentures or partials, follow these tips:

• Consume foods that are simple to chew and easy to swallow. Examples include eggs, fish, cheese, chopped meat, cooked vegetables, and ice cream.
• Small bites and thorough chewing are essential—be careful not to bite down with your front teeth.
• Chewing gum and similar hard or gooey food and food items should be avoided.

Generally, comfortable eating resumes within a month or two of using your dentures or partials on a regular basis. When you feel comfortable, you should begin adding a wider variety of foods to your diet, focusing on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. Your dentist in Georgia may suggest adding a denture adhesive cream to enhance your comfort level and confidence during this period of adjustment. Denture adhesive creams are designed to seal out bits of food that typically get stuck between the teeth, such as strawberry seeds, nuts, and popcorn. The most important thing to remember is to have patience as you adjust to your dentures or partials. It takes time, but with regular use, you will resume your normal eating habits quickly.

Speaking with Dentures or Partials

Along with learning to eat a variety of foods comfortably, you may have to relearn effective speech patterns when you begin wearing dentures or partials for the first time. Difficulty speaking clearly as you transition to dentures or partials is quite normal. Most people struggle with the “S” or “F” sounds, but as with eating—practice makes perfect. In fact, learning to speak with dentures or partials usually occurs at a faster rate, as there is greater opportunity to practice and improve your skills. Follow these tips for transitioning to normal speaking patterns with dentures or partials:

• Whether you’re alone or among friends, making it a priority to speak aloud when wearing your dentures or partials for routine practice.
• Take time each day to read aloud from a newspaper, magazine, or book to assess your abilities with various words. Practice in front of a mirror to observe mouth movements and make changes as necessary.
• For some, biting down and swallowing before beginning to speak can reduce movement of dentures or partials, improving speech patterns.

Dentures or partials are designed to improve dental care and quality of life. It may seem frustrating to have to “relearn” basic habits, such as eating or speaking, but the value of being able to comfortably interact in social settings is well worth the transition. Speak with your dental care professional for additional tips on adjusting to dentures or partials.

To learn more about affordable quality dentures from a dentist in Georgia, call Dental One Associates of Georgia today at or make an appointment. Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Georgia. With 5 affiliated practices throughout Georgia, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Georgia, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Georgia.