Countless generations of patients with missing teeth have relied on dentures to rebuild their smiles and improve their overall quality of life. But although dentures are designed to fit snugly and securely, over time, their fit can become loose—which in turn can lead to all kinds of problems. Here’s what you need to know about how poorly-fitting dentures can impact your smile and oral health, along with why seeing your dentist routinely is the secret to keeping your restoration in optimal shape.
3 Complications of Ill-Fitting Dentures
Dentures can cause all sorts of complications when they don’t fit correctly, but three common ones are:
Mouth Sores
If your dentures don’t fit correctly, they can shift and rub against your gums and soft tissues, causing irritation. This can lead to painful sore spots and open sores that have the potential to become infected if left untreated. Keep in mind that an infection that starts in the mouth has the potential to spread to other parts of the body!
Difficulty Eating & Speaking
Ill-fitting dentures can make chewing difficult, which may in turn cause you to avoid healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, or anything else nutritious that’s also tough to eat. You may also notice changes in your speech, such as slurring or clicking sounds when you talk.
Bone Loss & Facial Changes
Dentures that no longer fit properly won’t provide the stimulation that your jawbone needs to remain healthy and full, leading to accelerated bone loss. Over time, this can lead to facial collapse, making you look older and affecting how your dentures fit even further.
How Routine Dental Care Can Keep Your Dentures in Great Shape
Your dentist is the expert when it comes to your dentures—and as soon as you notice a problem with how your restoration fits, contacting them should be step number one. But aside from that, seeing your dentist regularly also allows them to make adjustments as needed, to improve their fit and comfort, provide you with tips for ensuring their cleanliness, or to replace them if needed. Plus, this also means small issues like sore spots or pressure points can be caught before they become serious complications.
If you notice your dentures moving or sliding around, you’re having trouble chewing or speaking, or you believe there’s something else wrong with your restoration, it’s time to schedule a visit. Ignoring these issues can lead to issues that are otherwise preventable!
About the Practice
Our team here at Webster Lake Dental has served the needs of patients and families in Webster and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of services, including numerous restorative solutions such as dentures. If your dentures haven’t been fitting like they should lately, you can trust our team to get things back on track! If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 943-8111.