For many, dentures are a life-changing solution for addressing tooth loss, restoring not only the mouth’s functionality but also the aesthetics of a natural, symmetrical smile. However, when dentures do not fit as intended, they actually have the potential to cause more problems than they solve – and some of these issues can even be potentially life-threatening! But by understanding these risks and the importance of regular denture maintenance, you can ensure that your prosthetic does nothing but make life easier and bring joy to you and those around you. Here’s what you need to know.
Problems Caused by Ill-Fitting Dentures
Dentures are a tried-and-true, practical option for replacing teeth. They look realistic, assist with eating and speaking, and restore a patient’s confidence that has plummeted due to tooth loss. However, when they stop fitting or functioning as intended, they can cause all kinds of problems, including gum inflammation, jaw pain, headaches, jawbone atrophy, angular cheilitis, and most noticeable of all, difficulty performing oral functions.
However, what’s truly alarming is the link between ill-fitting dentures and serious health conditions such as oral cancer. While they can’t directly cause cancer, when you have dentures that slip and move around due to poor fit combined with inadequate dental hygiene, the irritation that develops can cause the cells in your mouth to become much more vulnerable to cancer.
This means that neglecting your oral care as well as your dentures can lead to cancer – and though oral cancer is very treatable if caught early on, it still only has around a 65% survival rate at the 5-year mark. It’s also worth noting that patients who smoke or use tobacco, regardless of their dentures, are at a greatly heightened risk of oral cancer and other serious conditions.
Signs Your Dentures Need Professional Maintenance
If your dentures do not fit properly or feel uncomfortable to wear, it’s a telltale sign that they need adjustment or repair, and you should contact your dentist immediately. However, other signs of compromised dentures include things like:
- The dentures have lost or broken teeth.
- There are chips or cracks in the teeth or base of the dentures.
- You’re unable to chew easily while wearing your dentures.
- You notice changes in the shape of your cheeks or jawline.
- Your gums that support your dentures are inflamed or irritated.
- You experience changes in your speech patterns.
- Your dentures are stained or persistently odorous.
Dental experts estimate that over 20 million Americans wear dentures – and if you fall into this category, it’s imperative that you keep tabs on your dentures and ensure they undergo regular maintenance. By doing so, you can ensure that your new smile is optimally healthy, unlikely to lead to frightening long-term health issues, and of course, undeniably beautiful!
About the Practice
The team at Soldotna Dental Arts has proudly served patients and families in the Soldotna, AK community for several years, offering a comprehensive range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, including denture-related services. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with the team to set up an appointment for you or a loved one, feel free to visit their website or call their office for additional information or assistance. Telephone: (907) 420-3938.