Having no teeth, even temporarily, can be discomforting. If you’ve had your teeth extracted in preparation for dentures, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance and have difficulty chewing and speaking. However, having no teeth doesn’t have to mean feeling “toothless” for long. Here’s what to expect while waiting for dentures.
Why do I have no teeth before getting dentures?
It’s common to have all your teeth removed before getting dentures. This allows the gums and bone to heal fully before dentures are placed. It typically takes 6-8 weeks for complete healing, during which time you’ll be toothless. There are a few reasons your dentist may recommend removing all teeth at once:
- It avoids multiple surgeries to extract damaged or infected teeth over time.
- It allows the jawbone and gums to be fully reshaped in preparation for dentures.
- It prevents future dental infections or issues under new dentures.
Although you may feel self-conscious without teeth initially, remember this transition period is temporary. Proper healing now means your dentures will fit comfortably and function well for years to come.
What can I eat without teeth?
Your diet will be limited temporarily while you have no teeth. However, you can still enjoy a variety of nutritious foods. Here are some tips:
- Eat soft, mushy foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, soup, pudding, applesauce, and bananas.
- Cut food into small pieces or shred/chop meats and veggies to make them easier to chew.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, chewy, and sticky foods which can be difficult to chew and swallow.
- Take small bites and chew slowly and thoroughly with your gums.
- Drink plenty of fluids with meals to help moisten food.
Focus on getting adequate nutrition by choosing nutrient-dense foods. Protein shakes, smoothies, and nutritional supplement drinks can also help boost your calorie and protein intake.
Will I be able to speak normally?
Having no teeth affects your speech. You may find yourself slurring words or sounding different. Here are some tips for speaking clearly:
- Take your time and speak slowly.
- Practice tongue and lip exercises to strengthen your mouth muscles.
- Place your tongue firmly against the roof of your mouth as you speak.
- Over-pronounce words, focusing on enunciating clearly.
- Keep your lips closed as much as possible when speaking.
Give yourself time to adapt. Recording your speech and listening back can help you hear where improvements can be made. With practice, your speech should become clearer. Let friends and family know you may sound different temporarily.
How will my facial appearance change?
Losing all your teeth changes the shape and look of your face. Here’s what to expect:
- Your cheeks will appear more sunken or hollow without teeth roots to support them.
- Your jaw may appear more protruded or pointed as chewing muscles weaken.
- Nasolabial folds (lines from nose to mouth) may deepen.
- Your lips may seem thinner and your chin closer to your nose.
- Smiling may feel unnatural since some lip support is gone.
These facial changes are normal but can feel pronounced at first. Rest assured they are temporary. Once dentures are placed, they will restore facial structure and appearance. Focus on health rather than looks for now.
What home remedies provide relief?
You may experience pain, swelling, or tender gums after extractions. This is normal but uncomfortable. Here are some home remedies to help provide relief as you heal:
- Use an ice pack on your cheeks to reduce swelling and pain.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep your gums clean.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen to ease discomfort.
- Drink cool, soft foods like smoothies to soothe irritated tissues.
- Apply topical benzocaine gel directly to the gums for temporary numbing.
Avoid very hot or spicy foods that can aggravate tender gums. Proper oral hygiene is also important to prevent infection. Brush gums and use medicated mouthwash daily.
What dental adhesives help temporarily?
Dental adhesives can provide some temporary relief until you get dentures. They help hold tissues together to aid eating and speaking. Options include:
- Denture adhesive – Provides hold for brief denture wear until permanent ones are ready.
- Dental wax – Coats and protects sore spots on the gums.
- Cushion adhesives – Soften rough edges of remaining teeth.
- Tissue conditioners – Relieve irritated gums and improve comfort.
Adhesives should not be used long-term as they cannot replicate the fit and function of permanent dentures. But they can temporarily ease the transition to being toothless.
Are there tips for coping emotionally?
Being without teeth can negatively impact your self-confidence and body image. Here are some tips for coping emotionally:
- Give yourself time to adjust – uneasiness about your appearance is normal at first.
- Practice positive self-talk and remember this is temporary.
- Spend time doing activities you enjoy to stay upbeat.
- Find supportive friends and family to boost your confidence.
- Avoid situations if needed where you feel self-conscious.
- Focus on your health, not just looks – this is an important medical process.
Share your feelings with loved ones and your dentist. With time, you’ll adjust both physically and emotionally. Focus on the end result of getting a functional, beautiful smile.
When will I get my permanent dentures?
You can expect to get permanent dentures around 6-12 weeks after extractions. This allows for complete healing as follows:
| Week 1 | Initial healing of extraction sites |
|---|---|
| Weeks 2-3 | Formation of smooth gum ridges |
| Weeks 4-5 | Gums completely line jawbone sockets |
| Weeks 6-8 | Jawbone fully reshapes and stabilizes |
| Weeks 9-12 | Gums, jawbone, and facial muscles strengthen and tone |
Getting immediate dentures right after extractions is also an option. However, you’ll still need to return around 12 weeks later to have permanent dentures properly fitted as your mouth changes shape during healing.
What care is needed for my permanent dentures?
Once you get your permanent dentures, proper care is important for keeping them functioning optimally long-term:
- Remove and clean dentures daily by soaking and brushing them.
- Use denture cleansers or mild soap, not toothpaste.
- Brush your gums and tongue daily.
- See your dentist regularly to check fit and condition.
- Use denture adhesives for added stability if needed.
- Store dentures in water or adhesive when not worn.
- Avoid dropping dentures or exposing them to high heat.
With good care, dentures typically last 5-7 years or longer before needing to be repaired or relined for proper fit. Be diligent about cleaning both your dentures and mouth.
Are implant-supported dentures an option?
Traditional dentures rest on the gums, staying in place with suction and adhesive. A newer option is implant-supported dentures. These use 2-6 dental implants placed in the jawbone to securely anchor dentures.
Benefits of implant-supported dentures include:
- Improved stability and retention
- More natural fit and comfort
- Prevents bone loss compared to traditional dentures
- Allows dentures to feel more like natural teeth
- Easier chewing and speaking
- More confidence in dentures staying put
The implants integrate with the jawbone, acting like tooth roots. This provides solid support for denture teeth. Implants may cost more initially but are a smart long-term investment for your health and smile.
Conclusion
Being without teeth temporarily can feel uncomfortable and impact your confidence. However, this transition period is normal and short-lived on your journey to getting dentures. Focus on healing properly, eating nutritious foods, and caring for your mouth during this time. Leaning on loved ones for support can help you adjust both physically and emotionally. With patience and a positive outlook, you’ll soon reap the benefits of renewed function and an attractive, confident smile.