Dentures are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile, but only if they fit properly. Over time, changes in your jawbone, gum tissue, or even wear and tear on the denture itself can lead to a poor fit. And the ill-fitting dentures aren’t just uncomfortable—they can also create serious complications for your oral health in day-to-day function. Here’s what you need to know about the risks of poorly fitting dentures and why regular dental checkups are essential for preserving their function and, by proxy, your oral health.
3 Notable Complications of Ill-Fitting Dentures
Dentures can cause a variety of complications when they don’t fit correctly, but three common ones include:
- Sore spots and mouth sores – When dentures don’t fit snugly, they can shift and rub against your gums and soft tissues. It leads to painful sore spots, irritation, and even open sores, which can become infected and inflamed if left untreated. Gum inflammation that triggers gum disease also has the potential to cause infections and issues elsewhere in the body.
- Difficulty eating and speaking – Poorly-fitting dentures can make chewing difficult and may cause you to avoid healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, since they’ll give you too much trouble to eat. You may also notice changes in your speech, such as slurring or clicking sounds when you talk, which can lead to difficulty or even embarrassment when trying to converse with others.
- Bone loss and facial changes – Dentures that no longer fit properly may not provide the necessary stimulation to your jawbone, leading to accelerated bone loss. Over time, this can change the shape of your face, making you look older and affecting how your dentures fit even more.
How Regular Dental Checkups Can Help
Your mouth naturally changes over time, and your dentures will evolve with it. Seeing your dentist regularly allows them to make adjustments and modifications if needed, to improve their fit and comfort. Plus, small issues like sore spots or pressure points can be caught before they become serious complications.
It also goes without saying that even though dentures replace your teeth, they don’t replace the need for consistent oral hygiene and oral cancer screenings—and routine preventive care twice a year plays a large role in this.
Dentures also need to be replaced after their lifespan has reached the end, and your dentist is the best person for this job. If you notice your dentures slipping, feel discomfort, or are having trouble chewing or speaking, it’s time to schedule a visit. Ignoring these issues can lead to avoidable problems!
About the Practice
Our team here at Miles of Smiles has served the dental needs of patients in Londonderry for several years, offering a wide range of services, including restorative solutions like dentures, in partial, full, and implant-retained varieties. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to follow up with our team to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, you can contact us online or call today for assistance. Telephone: (603) 437-8204.