After first receiving your dentures, they will fit snuggly, only relying on suction to stay in place. However, over time, your jawbone will change shape, which can cause your dentures to fit poorly if they are not relined. Slipping and irritation aren’t the only concerns of ill-fitting dentures. If the problem is not resolved, you may face life-threatening complications. Here’s why it’s important to visit your dentist regularly to have your dentures relined.
Gum Inflammation and irritation
Poor-fitting dentures can cause inflammation and irritation of your gums. Eventually, this can lead to sores and infections that can affect your health negatively. An infection may enter your bloodstream through the pressure of regular chewing, which can increase your risk of several issues, including heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Chronic inflammation is also linked to a number of health conditions, like hypertension and some cancers.
Difficulty Eating
If your dentures don’t fit well, eating certain foods can be challenging, like meats. As a result, you may remove them from your diet because they are too difficult to chew. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can compromise your overall wellness.
Atrophy of the Jawbone
Poor-fitting dentures can cause your jawbone to shrink at a much higher rate. As you lose density in your jaw, your facial structures can change and you can experience a number of complications, including jaw pain.
Oral Cancer
Chronic inflammation caused by slipping dentures can cause cell damage, which can lead to mutations. If the mutated cells replicate faster than the body can repair them, they can turn into cancerous cells. 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer annually. Although oral cancer is treatable, the 5-year survival rate is only 68%.
Maintaining a Snug Fit
It’s best to visit your dentist every 6 months for a dental checkup. Besides keeping your mouth healthy, they’ll check the fit of your dentures. They can add and remove material as needed to ensure your dentures continue to fit and function as intended.
Consider Dental Implants
If you’re ready to stop slipping and irritation for good, you may be a candidate for implant dentures. Implant posts are placed into your jaw to serve as new tooth roots, anchoring your denture in place. You’ll benefit from a solution that has a 95% success rate and can last for decades with the correct care, like brushing and flossing.
Slipping dentures are nothing to ignore. Keeping your dentures fitting correctly will support a healthy mouth and body.
About Dr. Khalida Stutman
Dr. Stutman graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Graduate Dentistry. She has also attended the BU Goldman School of Graduate Dentistry and the United States Dental Institutes. She regularly continues her education in many specialties, including dentures, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (516) 366-3345.