Over time, your dentures will inevitably start to lose their fit. It may seem like a minor annoyance that causes discomfort, but did you know it can do worse? The truth is that it can be life-threatening in certain cases. That’s why it’s so important to make sure they feel snug and head to your dentist when they don’t. Keep reading to learn what you should know.
Why Are Ill-Fitting Dentures Harmful?
You should know that the dentures themselves aren’t harmful. Rather, when they don’t sit right, they can increase your risk of oral cancer. This condition can be life-threatening and may start small with no or minor symptoms.
Ill-fitting dentures can trap a lot of different things, from food debris to alcohol, tobacco, and other substances. These all can lead to gum inflammation, which not only causes some pain, but can also cause cell damage and repair if it’s chronic. You increase your chances of developing oral cancer, so continuing to wear them in this state can only spell bad news.
How Can I Tell If My Dentures Don’t Fit Right?
To help avoid this, you should learn about the signs of ill-fitting dentures. Here is what commonly happens:
- You have difficulty chewing and biting as they can shift while you enjoy your meals.
- You notice changes in your speech because they move when you are pronouncing certain words and syllables.
- You develop pressure sores as your bite isn’t evenly distributed across the prosthetic.
- You experience discomfort or soreness after you have initially adjusted to them.
What Should I Do About Ill-Fitting Dentures?
If you notice any of the symptoms above, then it’s important that you visit your dentist right away. They will do an oral examination and look at your dentures to see exactly where the problem areas are. Here, they may offer a simple relining, where they add material to bring back a snug fit. If they are a bit older and need to be replaced, then this route may be recommended instead.
In the end, an ill-fitting prosthetic can be more than just an annoyance. Not only may it slip while you are eating and talking with those around you, but you can inadvertently increase your risk of oral cancer! By keeping in mind how they are supposed to sit, you can make sure you get the care you need and keep your restored smile the best it can be for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Sanker earned his dental degree from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and then later specialized in prosthodontics. This means that he is an expert in all things replacing missing and damaged teeth, including dentures. With high-quality materials, you can trust your prosthetic not only looks natural but feels comfortable. If you have experienced tooth loss, schedule an appointment or call his office at (301) 468-5566.