6 Tips to Keep Dentures Securely in Place

If you are missing some or all of your teeth, a set of full or partial dentures can help you enjoy food and flash a winning smile. However, some new and experienced denture users have trouble with their false teeth sliding out of place, which can lead to them feeling nervous about speaking or eating in public.
If you struggle to keep your dentures securely seated in your gums, try using these six tips.
1. Practice Eating With Your Dentures
Eating with dentures instead of your natural teeth can feel very strange at first. While you get used to your new teeth, stick to eating softer foods. Oatmeal, soup and stewed vegetables are all good meals to try on your first couple of days with a new set of dentures. As you gain confidence, add steamed vegetables and rice. Gradually work your way up to tackling harder foods such as meat and crusty bread.
2. Swap Gum for Mouthwash or Breath Mints
Many people who wear dentures struggle with sticky foods, such as chewing gum. If you are worried about your dentures slipping, swapping your chewing gum habit for no-sugar breath mints is a good way to keep dentures securely in place. You can also use mouthwash after meals to freshen breath as an alternative to gum. If you cannot manage bad breath without chewing gum, see your dentist for advice.
3. Keep Your Dentures Moist
The base part of your dentures is made from a flexible polymer. When the polymer is moist, this material bends easily so you can slide the dentures into position without a struggle. However, if you let your dentures dry out, this material could become brittle. When you do not wear your dentures, keep them in a glass of water or denture-soaking solution to keep their base soft.
4. Handle Dentures With Care
Dentures can break or deform if you handle them too roughly. When putting full or partial dentures into your mouth, use a mirror to carefully push them into the correct position. Do not rush or try to force the dentures into position. You should also try to avoid dropping your dentures or knocking them. Treating your dentures with care will keep them securely in place and help them last a long time as well.
5. Ask a Dentist to Adjust Your Dentures
If your dentures do not seem to fit your mouth very well, schedule an appointment with your dentist. Adjusting dentures to make them fit more comfortably is usually possible. You should try this solution even if you have had your dentures for a long time, as your mouth might have changed shape over the years.
6. Use Denture Adhesive
Some denture users never need to use an adhesive product to hold their teeth in place, but for others, denture adhesive makes a world of difference. You can purchase denture adhesive as either a powder or a paste, which you would apply to the base of your dentures to help them stay in place throughout the day.
These products are safe to use every day and can give you the confidence you need to eat, talk, laugh and smile while wearing your dentures.
If you need more help getting used to your new dentures, or you want to know why an old set of false teeth no longer sit comfortably, schedule an appointment at Runcorn Dental today. Our four dentists have a combined experience of more than 25 years, which we are keen to use to solve your denture woes. Get in touch today to find out how we can help.