What Is The Most Common Denture Problem?

Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to mimic the appearance and functionality of our teeth. While they can effectively replace missing teeth, one common concern associated with them is the problem of improper fitting. In this blog, we aim to delve into this issue, exploring its causes and implications. 

Dentures are custom-made to fit your gums, providing you with a blend of comfort, functionality and aesthetics. However, over time, dentures can become loose or uncomfortable. This is often accompanied by other oral issues.

To comprehend the issue, it would be helpful to understand why it happens. Common causes of ill-fitting dentures include:

• Bone Resorption: With the loss of natural teeth, the underlying bone in the jaw begins to resorb or shrink over time. This can result in changes to the shape and structure of the jawbone, making it challenging for dentures to fit securely.
• Changes in Gum Tissue: Along with bone resorption, the gum tissue can also change in shape and thickness. This can further contribute to the poor fit of dentures.
• Normal Wear and Tear: Dentures, like any other prosthetic device, undergo wear and tear over time. With regular use, the fit of dentures can gradually deteriorate, leading to discomfort and instability.
  

Wearing ill-fitting dentures can lead to a series of complications, including:

• Oral Health Issues: These may include gum and mouth irritation, sores, infections and, in severe cases, even oral ulcers. These issues can make it painful to wear your dentures.
• Difficulties in Daily Activities: Ill-fitting dentures can make eating and speaking challenging. They can slip or move, which can lead to discomfort.
• Lowered Self-Confidence: When dentures don't fit properly, it can result in feelings of insecurity and lowered self-confidence, significantly impacting your social interactions.

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor changes in your oral health and ensure your dentures still fit properly.
• Denture Adjustments: If your dentures feel uncomfortable or loose, your prosthetist can adjust them to improve the fit. This might involve relining (adding new material to the denture base) or rebasing (making a new base while keeping the existing denture teeth).
• Denture Replacement: If the denture is too old or severely damaged, it can be replaced. The lifespan of dentures varies, but a general recommendation is to get a new set every 5 to 7 years.
• Proper Denture Care: This includes cleaning your dentures daily, storing them properly and avoiding activities that could damage them, such as using them to open packages or biting your nails.

At The Denture Care Group Sunshine Coast, we offer same-day and after-hours denture repairs in our state-of-the-art onsite laboratory. If you notice any damage or feel your denture has become loose, book an appointment with us. Our prosthetists will conduct a thorough assessment and recommend a solution for your denture problem.