When you first got your dentures, they might’ve been snug and comfortable. You’ve gotten good use out of them over the years, but what if they aren’t fitting as they did before? While you may think it’s just a minor annoyance, they can actually be life-threatening in certain cases. To make sure your oral and overall health stay strong, here’s what you need to know.
What’s So Bad About Ill-Fitting Dentures?
In short, it’s not the dentures themselves that are harmful, but rather the complications they cause when they don’t fit right. You might notice new pressure points or have constant friction, but they can irritate your gums and lead to inflammation. This can damage the cells in the soft tissue, which in turn can make them more prone to mutate and become cancerous.
A study in 2014 found that ill-fitting prosthetics can actually increase your risk of oral cancer by nearly four times when compared to snug ones. This is then only heightened if you smoke or have heavy alcohol consumption.
Is There a Way I Can Tell If My Dentures Don’t Fit Right?
While the thought of this dental problem is worrying, you can avoid it by making sure your dentures sit comfortably. If they don’t, then one of the first things you might notice is that they slip more often. The movement may lead to you having more trouble biting and chewing. With this shifting, you might also have changes in your speech, such as issues pronouncing certain syllables and words.
It’s also likely that you’ll develop pressure sores as your bite isn’t evenly distributed anymore. This can also cause discomfort and soreness even after you adjust to them initially.
How Can I Fix Ill-Fitting Dentures?
As soon as you notice any of the complications above, you should visit your dentist about them! They will be able to do an oral examination and look at your dentures to determine where they don’t fit right. They’ll likely reline them and add material to them to fill in those spaces. If your prosthetic is older, then you may need a replacement as yours might’ve reached the end of their lifespan.
An ill-fitting restoration can be frustrating to deal with, but it can be serious trouble if you aren’t careful. Not only can the slippage make you embarrassed, but it can also increase your risk of oral cancer. Simply keep in mind how they are meant to fit; that way, you can make sure they stay comfortable and help you stay confident.
About the Author
Dr. Prachi Shah has nearly 20 years of experience that she uses to give the Pantego community the high-quality care they deserve. She is here to help you replace your missing teeth with reliable options like dentures. By making sure they fit right throughout your time with them, you can enjoy a comfortable grin you feel your best in. If your prosthetic doesn’t fit like it used to, schedule an appointment or call her office at (817) 860-2222.