4 Common Issues With New Dentures & Their Solutions
Although dentures can be a godsend for people who are missing teeth, they don't come without their problems. False teeth will never feel completely natural, and they often take some time to feel comfortable and adjust to your mouth. If you are thinking about getting dentures or are a new denture wearer, you should be aware of common denture problems and solutions for them.
Not fitting properly
The most common problem with dentures is that they don't fit properly after a while. When you put your dentures on for the first time, it's immediately after getting your remaining teeth pulled. Because of this, your gums are swollen when you first receive them. Your dentures will fit tight for the first few days. As the swelling goes down, they'll become comfortable, but then, they often become too loose.
Your prosthodontist will give you instructions on when to come back to get them adjusted. Make sure you keep your appointments. Even if your dentures don't feel loose the day of the appointment, they may begin to feel loose shortly afterward, and you'll wish you went. They may have to be adjusted several times in the first six months to ensure they fit properly.
Pain while eating
Eating will be difficult when you first get your dentures. Since you have no sensation in your false teeth, it's almost like eating with someone else's mouth. It will take some practice and time to get used to it. Start with soft foods. Eggs, mashed potatoes, pasta, and yogurt are all great foods while getting used to your dentures.
When you chew your food, don't limit the food to one side of your mouth. Chew evenly throughout your whole mouth so the dentures don't push to one side or move forward. You also need to be careful about eating foods that are too hot. You have a greater chance of burning your mouth since you can't feel the heat on your teeth. Take extra care to test temperatures with your hands, lips, and tongue before popping hot foods into your mouth.
Denture-induced infections
Two common fungal infections contracted by denture wearers include Cheilitis and Stomatitis. These are both yeast infections in the mouth. Cheilitis is painful and causes cracking and swelling in the corners of your mouth. When dentures don't fit properly, the yeast can built up in of your mouth that are extra-moist.
Stomatitis is another infection that triggers yeast build-up. The causes of denture-induced stomatitis include not properly cleaning your dentures, not taking your dentures off at night, and traumatizing your gum tissue with dentures that don't fit properly. These infections are another reason to ensure that you have your dentures adjusted in a timely manner. You also want to make sure that you use proper cleaning solution to soak your dentures at night. Only sleep with your dentures in, if your prosthodontist instructs you to do so. Signs of stomatitis include pain, swelling, and rashes in the mouth.
Dentures popping out
One of the most embarrassing things that can happen with dentures, is them popping out of your moth while you're talking to someone or eating. Even properly adjusted dentures can pop out from time-to-time. It's simply a downside of having false teeth. To avoid this, you should purchase denture adhestive.
There are three different kinds of denture adhesive. These include cream, powder, and strips. Cream is basically like a denture glue. It generally provides the best hold out of the three options; however, it often leaves a residue that can be difficult to clean off of your dentures and gums.
If the residue bothers you too much, you can try a denture powder. It's a powder that you shake onto your dentures, and then pop them in your mouth. Your saliva will mix with the powder and create a paste. The powder is a little messy, and it isn't as strong as cream.
Another popular option is adhesive strips. It's basically a double-sided tape for your dentures. The strips are thick, so they also provide a cushion between your gums and your dentures. Many people prefer the cushion and the lack of messes.
Dentures can be frustrating at the beginning, but it's better than having missing and damaged teeth. After a while, you will get used to them, and the hassle will be minimal. If you find yourself having any of these issues, remember these solutions so you don't suffer and contact a professional if you need denture repair.
Share