When you first start wearing dentures, you may feel self-conscious as you learn to eat or talk with a dental appliance in your mouth. Dating can bring a new layer of anxiety about your dentures, but with some forethought and knowledge, you can manage your concerns while dating. The denturists with Baker Lanoue Denture Clinic have some tips for feeling more confident with your dentures on your dates.  

Dentures are a part of your normal, just as if you wore eyeglasses. Dentures that fit well and are clean won’t be noticeable, so there’s no need to reveal information about your health until you’re ready. Keep in mind you’ll want to share it when you do develop the right level of intimacy. Feeling like you need to hide your dentures causes anxiety. Just make it part of the normal conversation. The less self-conscious you are, the more you put your date at ease.  

When you go to a restaurant with a new date, choose foods that you know you can eat with confidence. It can help to read the menu before you go to think about which menu items might be problematic for you. Watch out for spice blends on meat that contain small seeds. Steak and chicken can be chewy when not cooked correctly. Baked fish that easily flakes can be a good choice. Watch out for sticky desserts with toffee or caramel. After dinner, discreetly excuse yourself to the bathroom to rinse your dentures if you are uncomfortable.  

If you’re like most people, you got fitted with dentures to have more confidence. Smile brightly at your date to make a good first impression. Smiling releases endorphins and serotonin, making you feel better. You’ll feel more attractive and perhaps, younger. Plus, smiling is contagious!  

If you wear complete dentures, suction is the glue that keeps the dentures in place. When you kiss, you pucker your lips, which creates suction that can dislodge the dentures. Combined with the pressure against your partner’s lips, it might be problematic. Partial dentures can have hooks or clasps to hold them in place. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to dislodge the partial. To overcome the challenges of kissing with dentures:  

• Alert your partner and be aware of the situation.  
• Kiss with parted lips to reduce the suction.  
• Gently kiss to practice and to learn what can dislodge the dentures.  
• Consider taking your dentures out before an amorous evening. 

If your dentures are holding you back from dating, a consultation with a denturist at Baker Lanoue Denture Clinic can help you find solutions. It may be time to replace your dentures. You may need to have your dentures refitted to your mouth. We want to help you feel more confident with your dentures. Make an appointment today to get that bright smile you want.  

If you live in Windsor or the surrounding area, please call 519-252-7772 to book your appointment or request a consultation online.