Are you having denture problems? Are your dentures ill-fitting or causing you discomfort? When was the last time you could eat what you enjoy with confidence?
Strong and healthy teeth help us look and feel good – so it’s no surprise that losing teeth and facing a lifetime of full or partial dentures can seriously affect our happiness and self-confidence.
If you’re struggling with your dentures, your dentist can help.
What are the most common denture problems?
Denture problem 1 – unstable, loose dentures
The problem: Most people think their dental problems will come to an end with the removal of their teeth, but it’s not always that straightforward. Bone density diminishes once your teeth are removed, which means your jawline constantly changes. That’s the main reason dentures become loose and unstable with time. If your upper dentures drop a little while you’re eating, or they move around causing pain and irritation, you will probably feel self-conscious as well as uncomfortable.
The solution: We recommend you visit your dentist regularly for your overall oral health, as well as to check your dentures. During your appointment, your dentist will check the fit of your dentures, as well as the condition of your gums and periodontal structures. Usually your dentist will either adjust your dentures or fit new ones . Another possible solution could be dental implants, so it’s worth asking your dentist if you are a suitable candidate for implant treatment.
Denture problem 2 – pain and soreness
The problem: Dentures which slip and move about cause pain and soreness to your gums and the side of your mouth. When patients start wearing dentures they often experience this particular problem. It’s important to take time learning how to fit and maintain your dentures to get the best wear from them.
The solution: It’s important to use a good denture adhesive to keep your dentures firmly in place. Try rinsing your mouth with a mild salt solution while your gums get used to the pressure of dentures. If the soreness continues, however, see your dentist straight away. You may need to have your dentures adjusted for a better fit.
Denture problem 3 – lack of confidence
The problem: If your dentures don’t fit well, you might worry that you can’t rely on them staying in place whilst you eat and laugh. You may worry that the fixtures and clasps keeping partial dentures in place are visible, revealing the fact you’re wearing dentures to other people. Lack of confidence when wearing dentures is a common denture problem.
The solution: Often your dentist can help solve the problem of poorly fitting dentures with adjustments. If you’ve been wearing the same dentures for three years or more, it’s likely that you will need new dentures for a better fit. Dentures that fit better will help you to feel more confident again.
Dental implants can solve your problems
An implant placed directly into the jawbone replaces the root of a missing tooth and supports a replacement crown. It is the nearest alternative to getting your real teeth back. Dental implants offer a secure, fixed solution to replace missing teeth. Supports can also be placed strategically to hold a whole arch of teeth, offering greater stability than traditional dentures. They last well with proper care.
Moreover, with implants you avoid common denture problems. These days, more and more people are opting to have implants placed even though they are a challenging treatment, and more expensive than dentures.
However, dental implants are not for everyone. During an initial assessment, your dentist will be able to tell you if you are a suitable candidate for implants.