Most people adjust within 1–2 weeks for basic comfort, though it can take a few months to feel completely natural. Speaking usually improves faster than eating. Practice reading aloud to help your tongue and cheeks adapt, and be patient with yourself — it gets easier every day.

It is best to remove them at night to give your gums a rest and allow healthy blood circulation. Wearing dentures 24 hours a day can lead to gum irritation, fungal infections, and bone loss over time. Soak them overnight in water or denture solution to keep them moist — dentures that dry out can warp and lose their fit.

A gagging sensation is fairly common when first wearing dentures, especially upper dentures, as the palate coverage can trigger the gag reflex. This usually improves as your mouth gets used to the prosthesis. If it persists beyond the first couple of weeks, contact us — we may be able to adjust the denture or explore alternative options.

Denture adhesive can help provide extra grip for daily wear. When eating, try chewing on both sides at the same time to keep the denture balanced and stable. If your dentures slip frequently, they may need adjustment or relining to improve the fit — don’t put up with loose dentures, as we can usually help.

Sore spots are very common with new dentures as your gums adjust to the new pressure points. Do not try to adjust the denture yourself, as this can damage it. Warm saltwater rinses can help soothe the area. Make sure to wear your denture for a few hours before your adjustment appointment so we can see exactly where it is rubbing.

Dentures typically need relining every 1–2 years as the shape of your jaw and gums changes over time. Immediate dentures (placed the same day as extractions) often need their first reline within 6–12 months, as the gums heal and change shape significantly during that period. Regular check-ups help us monitor the fit.

No — never use superglue, household adhesives, or DIY repair kits on your denture. These products are not safe for use in the mouth and can make a professional repair more difficult or even impossible. If your denture cracks or breaks, bring it in to us and we can arrange a proper repair or replacement.

Start with soft foods and gradually introduce more variety as you get comfortable. Avoid very sticky foods (toffee, caramel, chewing gum), very hard foods (nuts, hard crusts, raw carrots), and foods with small seeds that can get trapped under the denture. Be careful with hot foods, as dentures reduce your ability to sense temperature and you could burn your mouth.

You may use adhesive for extra security if needed — a small amount can boost your confidence while eating and speaking. Always clean off old adhesive before applying new. If you find you need a lot of adhesive to keep your denture in place, the fit may have changed and it could be time for an adjustment or reline.