Problems Caused by Poor-fitting Dentures
At our Philadelphia cosmetic dentistry practice, we strive to provide our patients with comfortable and effective tooth replacement treatments. When most or all of a patient’s teeth have been lost, dentures are a great way to achieve a full smile once more. In order for dentures to be effective, though, they need to fit a patient’s mouth precisely. If dentures are not crafted properly or no longer match the mouth’s changing contours, they can present a number of problems.
To help you determine if you are suffering from poor-fitting dentures, examine the common symptoms listed below. If you believe that one or more of the following problems are caused by your dentures, contact your dentist for an adjustment or replacement.
Why Might Dentures Not Fit?
When you first receive your dentures, it will likely take a little while to grow accustomed to them. It may feel strange to speak or eat normally, but the dentures should not be uncomfortable. If they do not fit snugly against the gums, however, this may indicate that they have not been molded well. Although dentures are customized from impressions of the gums, there are cases of patients receiving an ill-fitting pair at first. In this event, we will happy to create a superior set of dentures to help you start off on the right foot.
More commonly, dentures that once fit perfectly have slowly become a poor fit. This is not due to a change in the dentures, but in the structure of the mouth and jaw due to gradual bone loss. While some dentures can be adjusted to accommodate this change, they often need to be replaced.
Indications of Poor-fitting Dentures
If dentures do not properly complement the shape of your mouth and gums, this discrepancy can usually be felt. Specifically, poor-fitting dentures may feel loose or as if they are protruding into your gums. After a while, this tends to result in irritation; an especially poor fit can result in outright pain. Similarly, they will be harder to secure in the mouth, moving around when talking or eating. If they are not replaced within a reasonable time-frame, multiple problems may arise.
Problems from a Poor Fit
Depending on how poorly dentures fit and for how long they are worn, one or more of the following problems can ensue:
- Impeded speech: Difficulty with pronunciation is a common effect of ill-fitting dentures, with some words or letters becoming particularly hard to enunciate.
- Impeded diet: Biting and chewing may become difficult or painful. As a result, some foods may be averted and one’s overall eating habits can suffer.
- Swollen gums: As dentures rub unnaturally against gums and irritate them, the tissue may become swollen or inflamed.
- Blisters: Mouth sores and blisters may also form as a result of gum irritation. Due to discomfort, this can further discourage someone from wearing an already uncomfortable set of dentures.
- Bacterial and fungal infection: With enough irritation, gums can become exposed and vulnerable to bacterial infections. Fungal infections of the mouth, called thrush, can also form, leading to pain and difficulty swallowing.
- Cheilitis and Stomatitis: These particular infections are caused by an abundance of yeast in the mouth - a possible symptom of loose dentures. Chleilitis causes an inflammation near the corners of the mouth, whereas stomatitis causes redness and bumps near the roof of the mouth.
To address faulty dentures, consult your dentist before additional complications occur. In addition to revision or replacement, dental implants can be installed to permanently support dentures, ensuring a proper and secure fit every time.
Correct Your Loose Dentures
Your dental health is our priority. Whether you require new dentures or other restorations, such as dental crowns, implants, or bridges, we will provide top-of-the-line, personalized treatment. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.