Dentures are an excellent option for those who have experienced significant tooth loss. They are able to restore the appearance and function of your smile, giving you your confidence back. However, if your dentures aren’t fitting like they used to, they can result in various issues. Continue reading to learn why dentures become loose and what can occur if you continue to wear ill-fitting dentures.
Why Do Dentures Become Loose?
When you first received your dentures, they were perfectly shaped to fit in your mouth. This may make you wonder: what changed? It might seem like the denture expanded in size, but the truth is that the structure of the face changes over time. When you are missing teeth, your jawbone isn’t being stimulated by the natural tooth roots, so it begins to shrink. Ultimately, this can cause your dentures to become ill-fitting. This is why you need to see your dentist to have your restoration relined and replaced from time to time.
What Complications Can Come of Ill-Fitting Dentures?
Inflammation
If your dentures aren’t fitting right, they can rub against the gum tissue, resulting in irritation and inflammation of the soft tissues over time.
Blisters
Loose fitting dentures can cause blisters to develop in various locations in the mouth. This includes gum tissue, the interior surface of the jaw, and other areas of the mouth.
Ear Pain
If your jaw and gums are uncomfortable from loose dentures, pressure in your ears can build up as well. This can cause you to experience frequent earaches and headaches.
Difficulty Eating
When your dentures aren’t fitting how they should, this can make it much more difficult to eat. No one wants to experience pain when they are trying to get down food. Not eating properly can result in nutritional deficiencies which lead to various problems throughout the body.
Atrophy of the Jawbone
When the jawbone is constantly being worn down by ill-fitting dentures causing uneven pressure, it can start to break down.
Uneven Bite
Ill-fitting dentures can result in an incorrect bite. This can cause you to drool and result in an overgrowth of yeast. This can cause infection to develop in the future.
If your dentures aren’t fitting how they used to, this is a reason to call your dentist. They might need to be relined or replaced. By maintaining your dentures, you can avoid the issues listed above!
About the Author
Dr. Tarangini Suggala first earned her dental degree in India before moving to the United States and graduating with honors from The Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. She has been treating patients for over a decade and is committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. For more information or to schedule an appointment at her office in Carrollton, visit her website or call (972) 446-1111.