Have your dentures been feeling a bit off lately? They may not fit properly anymore. Dentures, when they are well-adjusted, can restore functionality and confidence if you’re missing teeth. However, when the fit of your dentures is off, they can cause many complications that affect your oral health and overall wellness. If you’re curious how something so simple as denture fit can lead to issues, continue reading. You’ll find five common complications caused by ill-fitting dentures.
1. Soreness and Irritation
Warped or damaged dentures often rub against the gums, causing soreness, irritation, and even painful ulcers. Persistent sore spots can make wearing dentures uncomfortable and affect daily activities like eating and speaking. A reline may be necessary to restore your denture’s comfort.
2. Difficulties Chewing or Speaking
Dentures that don’t fit well may shift or slip while chewing, making it difficult to eat some of your favorite foods. This can decrease eating enjoyment and lead to nutritional or digestive issues due to lack of nutrients or unchewed food. Additionally, poor-fitting dentures can alter speech patterns, causing difficulty in articulating words and making socializing harder.
3. Chronic Headaches
Pain often spreads, especially when two systems like the mouth and facial muscles are so close together. Ill-fitting dentures can cause jaw pain which spreads quickly into the neck and face. Many patients don’t ever associate headaches with their denture woes, but it’s a very common issue.
4. Bone Resorption
Dentures that don’t fit well constantly put pressure on the jawbone and can accelerate bone resorption. This is a process where the jawbone gradually shrinks over time due to lack of stimulation. Not only can this change the way your face looks, but it can also compromise the stability of your dentures.
5. Loss of Confidence
The discomfort and embarrassment caused by ill-fitting dentures can have a significant social and psychological impact. Patients may start to avoid social situations or feel self-conscious about their appearance. This decreased self-esteem can take a stressful toll on your body, lowering your quality of life.
As you can see, poorly-fitted dentures can lead to multiple complications that affect your oral health, comfort, and self-confidence. It’s important to address any issues with denture fit quickly to prevent these kinds of complications. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or signs, reach out to your dentist for help. They can assess the problem and get you back to smiling and feeling great in no time.
About the Author
If you need new dentures, or if you’re trying to repair the ones you already have, Dr. Barry R. Franzen can help. He has decades of experience in denture treatment with many satisfied patients. He earned his dental doctorate at the Marquette University School of Dentistry and then obtained his specialty training in prosthodontics at the University of Missouri and Truman Medical Center. Call (414) 543-5432 to schedule a denture consultation at Barry R. Franzen, D.D.S., or visit the website to discover other services.