Dentures are one of the most popular and accessible solutions for patients with missing teeth. They’ve assisted countless generations with rebuilding their smiles and enhancing their quality of life. However, as amazing as dentures are, they don’t come without drawbacks, one of which is their tendency to stop fitting correctly over time. Even worse, this can cause issues that have severe, even sometimes fatal, consequences. Here’s more from your dentist about some of the common problems caused by ill-fitting dentures, along with why they’re the best person for adjusting them and getting your smile back on track!
Top Problems Caused by Ill-Fitting Dentures
Even though denture technology has improved over the years, the restorations are still subject to breakage or alteration due to continuous use. This can lead to them becoming ill-fitting and unable to facilitate proper oral function. In fact, a poorly fitting denture can cause several types of problems in the mouth, some of which can lead to alarming conditions. Here’s more about a few of them:
- Jawbone atrophy – Our jaws cannot remain resolute and strong without the constant pressure and stimulation that our teeth provide. Ill-fitting dentures can suppress the formation of new jawbone tissue, eventually leading to atrophy and limited jaw mobility.
- Gum inflammation and irritation – Ill-fitting dentures can rub against the soft oral tissues of the mouth and cause painful sores and lesions, which have the potential to become infected.
- Angular cheilitis – When your bite is uneven, saliva can sometimes pool in the corners of the mouth on both sides, which is a prime environment for bacteria to thrive that can sometimes result in this painful and debilitating type of yeast infection.
- Oral cancer – Studies have found that there is a link between dentures and cancer; poorly fitting dentures may work to trap known carcinogens, like alcohol or tobacco, against the gums which can intensify their unfavorable effects. Oral cancer is one of the most common and deadly types of cancer out there, and you should always be looking to minimize your risks whenever possible.
How Your Dentist Can Help
The bottom line is that since ill-fitting dentures can cause a wide variety of issues, including those listed above, it’s always going to be in your best interest to have your dentures readjusted whenever they stop fitting as intended. And as tempting or convenient as it might seem to attempt to adjust or correct your dentures yourself, your dentist is the best person for the job. If you try to do things yourself, you risk injuring both your dentures and the inside of your mouth! Your dentist will thoroughly examine and assess your needs before correcting the issue, so you can rest assured that your smile will be fully functional again in no time and you won’t be at risk for the issues caused by ill-fitting dentures!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Lisa Wadsworth and Dr. Rishit Patel, the team at RP Dental & Implants is ready to assist patients in the Lady Lake, FL community with all of their dental needs. They’re proud to offer a wide range of services including restorative options such as dentures. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a visit for you or a loved one, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone for further information or assistance. Telephone: (352) 750-0008.