After receiving your new teeth and enjoying the many benefits they provide, it can be frustrating when they no longer fit as they once did. Ill-fitting dentures can cause multiple complications, resulting in pain and annoyance that cannot be addressed without the help of a trusted dental professional. If you are dealing with this type of situation and want a solution that provides comfort and functionality, keep reading.
What Causes Dentures to No Longer Fit Properly?
The most common reason that your dentures no longer feel good inside your mouth is jawbone resorption. Over time, this area of your mouth will begin to weaken, as there are no tooth roots to help deliver stimulation to the bone. As this process occurs, your dentures will no longer fit in place properly.
When receiving your prosthetic teeth, they were built according to the current oral structure; however, as time passes, this begins to change – a common occurrence among all denture wearers.
Other reasons dentures may no longer fit properly include warping of the material, general wear and tear, food particles existing underneath the denture, plaque forming on the exterior of the prosthetic, and even oral cancer.
What Kind of Complications Can Arise?
Many complications can occur when dentures do not fit well inside your mouth; however, three of the most common include:
- Increased discomfort – As the denture no longer fits in place, it can begin to rub against your soft oral tissues, causing gum swelling and sores. Increased soreness is likely to occur as well.
- Difficulty speaking – Dentures that fit ideally in place should allow you to speak with clarity; however, those that no longer fit correctly often slip and result in slurred speech.
- Trouble eating – A slipping denture that does not fit properly can make eating some of your favorite foods nearly impossible. As a result, you may become embarrassed and begin to lack the proper nutrition your body needs.
Why Consider Implant Dentures?
While you have the option to inquire about receiving a new denture to replace your old one (or have it relined), there is also the possibility of switching to implant dentures.
These long-lasting prosthetics are known for their versatility and ability to address all types of tooth loss. Whether it is multiple teeth or an entire arch that needs to be replaced, implant dentures can deliver more natural, functional, and stable smiles thanks to their permanent placement within the jawbone.
Life with dentures requires that you commit to seeing your dentist regularly to ensure a proper fit; however, if you want to seek an alternative option, you cannot go wrong with implant dentures and their longer-lasting lifespan.
About the Author
Dr. Joanne Bancroft earned her dental degree from the State University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2002, and she completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. As one of Colorado’s Top Dentists in 2020, she proudly offers her patients both dentures and dental implants to replace their missing teeth. If you’re tired of wearing regular prosthetics, however, and want a permanent solution, contact us at (720) 458-6561.