Time to Talk About – Problems with New Dentures

Dentures are, and long have been, an important and effective tooth replacement therapy for partial and/or total tooth loss. In fact, as the US population continues to live longer and grow older, more than 30 million Americans are currently wearing full dentures or partial dentures; with estimates rising to nearly 40 million denture wearers by the year 2020. As these numbers continue to grow, new technologies and applications are being devised to make dentures more comfortable, more natural in appearance, and easier to wear and care for, such as dental implants for anchoring dentures.

As your Littleton prosthodontist, we use the Dental Health Blog to share important information and educate you on the latest news in total tooth replacement and types of tooth replacement, to make your dental health choices easier and more effective.

With that being said, here are some common problems you may expect when wearing dentures:

Common Denture Problems

If you wear dentures, it is very important you keep your mouth clean and healthy. You should also only wear dentures that fit properly. Otherwise, the following problems may occur:

• Gum and mouth irritation
• Problems eating and speaking
• Dentures that move around in your mouth
• Mouth infections
• Treating Denture Problems

If you have problems with your dentures, see your dentist right away. Your dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced. WebMD.com

Properly fabricated and properly fitted dentures are the single most important factor to preventing problems over time. Further, regular visits to check the fit of your dentures will help prevent problems from developing, as your gums and bones will change, causing the fit of your dentures to change as well. Your dentist or prosthodontist can adjust the fit as needed, making subtle modifications to them, possibly delaying the need for replacement dentures, which will save you money in the long run.

Adapting to your New Dentures

One of the more common complaints we hear from patients with new dentures at our Littleton area prosthodontist office has to do with speech problems. The new appliance has made forming certain words more difficult, which can be embarrassing and frustrating. This is a normal reaction to placing something new and foreign inside your mouth, and will improve over time. Practice speaking the most difficult words and be patient as you adapt to your new dentures. You’ll get there.

Here are a few more steps you can take while adapting to your dentures:

• Eat soft foods, such as eggs, yogurt, and soups until you’ve become used to your dentures.
• Take smaller bites of your foods.
• Don't eat "sticky" foods.
• Chew your food slowly and thoroughly, using both sides of your mouth, to prevent slippage.
• Use a denture adhesive to hold your new teeth in place. Follow the instructions on the package carefully.

Don’t worry, eating will become easier as you get used to your new dentures. With time and practice, you should be able to eat most of the foods you’ve always enjoyed. If problems persist, visit your dentist or prosthodontist to check the fit of your new dentures, and for adjustments if necessary.

The doctors and staff at The Colorado Center for Implant and Prosthetic Dentistry are available to help you determine effective solutions to all of your dental problems, including effective tooth replacement therapies. If you would like more information from your Littleton area Prosthodontist, please call to make an appointment today.