When you get dentures, they become part of one of the most noticeable, intrinsic parts of you: your smile. Few features are as basic to your confidence and personality. And dentures should help you feel more confident, with a smile that appears healthy and natural.
But until you've adjusted to wearing dentures—and until you've gotten the fit just right—you might feel like your smile is not your own. The difference might be glaring to you, and you might worry that others can see it, too.
You can take steps, before and after you get dentures, to help ensure that they look natural, to you and to others. Follow these tips.
Find the right fit.
Any time you change something as basic as your smile, it's bound to take some getting used to. However, if you really feel like your dentures do not look natural—especially if you can point to specific features or areas where they are causing discomfort—then visit your denturist. Don't be shy about asking for adjustments and denture replacement until you get the fit and appearance you are looking for.
Choose wisely.
If you're at the stage where you are having dentures made, consider asking a loved one to help you pick out a set that most resembles your natural smile. This includes selecting a color that appears just a little bit "worn in." Avoiding stark, bright white when getting dentures will help you avoid that "false teeth" look.
Feel like you've got a mouthful?
In the first weeks and months after getting dentures, you may get the feeling that your dentures are too big or that your lips are being pushed forward. This "full-mouth" feeling is common and should go away as you get used to wearing your dentures. Try not to let it affect your confidence. Remember: In most cases, it's more noticeable to you than it is to others.
Keep 'em cared for.
Be sure to follow a regular denture-care routine to keep your dentures looking their best. And just like with natural teeth, be mindful of smoking and consuming foods or drinks, such as coffee and tea, that could stain your dentures and make cleaning your dentures difficult.
Get snug and secure.
Many denture wearers worry that their dentures will slip, causing embarrassment in social situations. This is especially true at the beginning, while your mouth muscles get used to holding your dentures in place. A denture adhesive such as Fixodent® can secure your dentures and help them feel more comfortable in your mouth, so you can smile without fear of them slipping.