Common Problems with Dentures and How to Solve Them

Missing teeth? Dentures are a fantastic solution for restoring your smile. However, like any dental appliance, they can come with their own set of challenges. Understanding these common problems and how to address them can significantly improve your comfort and confidence!

#1. Sore Spots and Irritation

One of the most common problems new denture wearers experience is sore spots and irritation. This discomfort typically occurs because your gums and other soft tissues are not used to the pressure and friction of the dentures.

Ensure that your dentures fit properly to alleviate sore spots. Sometimes, a minor adjustment by your dentist can make a significant difference.

Cleanse your palate, tongue, and gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush to eliminate unpleasant debris.

Applying denture adhesive can also help keep dentures in place and reduce friction. If the soreness persists, schedule an appointment with your dentist for further adjustments.

#2. Difficulty Eating and Speaking

It may require some time to become used to speaking and eating with dentures. You might find that certain foods are more challenging to chew or that your speech is slightly altered.

Once you feel more at ease, start with soft meals and move to more difficult textures. Cut your food into smaller, easier-to-chew pieces, and chew it slowly and evenly with both sides of your mouth.

Speaking skills improve with practice. Try reading out loud or speaking in front of a mirror to get used to the feel of your dentures. Over time, your tongue and muscles will adapt, and your speech will improve.

#3. Dentures Slipping Out of Place

It’s not uncommon for dentures to slip or move, especially when talking or eating. This can be embarrassing and inconvenient.

Denture adhesive can be a temporary fix for keeping dentures in place. However, if your dentures are constantly slipping, it might indicate that they need to be relined or adjusted.

For your dentures to fit and perform as intended, routine dental exams are necessary.

#4. Excessive Saliva Production

When you first get dentures, your mouth might produce more saliva than usual. This is a natural response as your body adjusts to a foreign object in your mouth.

Give it some time. Your salivary glands will eventually adjust, and the excessive saliva production should decrease.

In the meantime, swallowing more frequently can help manage saliva. Consuming lots of water can also help maintain hydration.

#5. Denture Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is an inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues caused by a yeast infection, often due to poor denture hygiene.

Ensure that you clean your dentures thoroughly every day. Remove them at night to give your mouth a break and prevent the build-up of bacteria and yeast. Soaking your dentures in an antifungal solution can also help.

See your dentist for the necessary care if you may develop denture stomatitis.

#6. Loose Dentures

Your jawbone and gums may gradually change in shape, which could lead to loose dentures. Speaking and eating can be challenging, with loose dentures, and they irritate and produce sore places.

It’s essential to see a dentist regularly to check how your dentures fit. Your dentist can reline or rebase your dentures to improve their fit, and in some cases, you might need new dentures.

Don’t try to adjust your dentures yourself, as this can cause more harm than good.

#7. Difficulty in Removing and Inserting Dentures

Putting in and removing dentures can be challenging, especially for new denture wearers.

Practice makes perfect. Your dentist can demonstrate the proper procedure for putting and removing your dentures.

Use both hands and be gentle to avoid damaging dentures or gums. Applying a thin layer of denture adhesive can make insertion more accessible and help keep them in place throughout the day.

#8. Bad Breath

Poor hygiene and food particles trapped in your dentures can lead to bad breath, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.

Maintain a rigorous cleaning routine for your dentures:

• To eliminate food particles and plaque, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and do dental cleaning once daily.
• Remember to clean your gums, tongue, and palate.
• Soaking your dentures in a solution overnight helps keep them clean.
• It’s essential to have routine dental exams to ensure your mouth and dentures remain healthy.

Dealing with denture problems can be frustrating, but with the correct care and guidance, you can overcome these obstacles and enjoy the rewards of wearing dentures. If you’re experiencing any of these common denture issues, consider reaching out to your dentist.

They can give personalised advice and solutions to ensure your dentures fit and function correctly.

Regular dental check-ups are vital to maintaining oral health and dentures’ longevity.

Dentures Management in Casula

If you’re facing persistent problems with your dentures or have any concerns, scheduling an appointment with your dentist can make a big difference.

At Casula Dental Care, we provide comprehensive dental services tailored to your individual needs.

We are a family-friendly dental clinic, welcoming patients of all ages in Casula and the surrounding areas.

Visit us today at Shop 17A Casula Mall, 1 Ingham Drive in Casula, or contact (02) 919 99695 to schedule your appointment.