Your Guide to Denture Risks and How to Avoid Them
Dentures are a popular solution for restoring smiles, improving oral health, and helping individuals eat and speak confidently. However, like any dental treatment, they come with potential risks and complications.
At Mint Dental in Pearl, MS, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their dental care. Whether you’re considering dentures or already wearing them, understanding these risks can help you maintain good oral health and avoid common issues.
If you’re experiencing discomfort or have questions about dentures, call us at (601) 882-5600 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alexa Lampkin. We proudly serve patients in Pearl, Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and surrounding areas.
Common Risks and Complications of Dentures
1. Gum Irritation and Inflammation
Poorly fitting dentures can cause gum irritation, leading to redness, soreness, and swelling. This discomfort can make wearing dentures challenging and may even result in gum disease if left untreated. Regular checkups with your Pearl dentist can ensure your dentures fit properly and prevent gum inflammation.
2. Mouth Infections and Denture Stomatitis
Dentures that aren’t cleaned properly can harbor bacteria and fungi, increasing the risk of mouth infections like denture stomatitis. This common fungal infection causes redness, soreness, and white patches on the gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene and using a denture cleaner daily can help prevent these issues.
3. Bone Loss and Jawbone Shrinkage
Missing teeth can lead to bone loss over time, causing your jawbones to shrink. This can result in ill-fitting dentures, a sunken or aged look, and difficulty eating. Restorative dentistry options like dental implants can help preserve jawbone health and provide a more stable solution.
4. Difficulty Speaking and Eating
New dentures can feel bulky and uncomfortable, making it hard to speak or eat properly. While most people adjust over time, poorly fitting dentures can prolong these challenges. Eating soft foods initially and practicing speaking can help ease the transition.
5. Dry Mouth and Changes in Taste
Dentures can irritate the salivary glands, leading to a dry mouth. This not only makes it harder to taste food properly but can also increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Staying hydrated and using saliva substitutes can help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.
6. Bad Breath and Poor Hygiene
Bad breath (halitosis) is a common issue for denture wearers, especially if food particles and oral bacteria aren’t properly removed. Cleaning your dentures daily and brushing your gums, tongue, and remaining natural teeth can help maintain good oral health and prevent bad breath.
How to Prevent Denture Problems
There are a few things you can do to prevent denture complications, including:
- Clean Your Dentures Daily: Use a denture cleaner to remove food particles and bacteria.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular checkups ensure your dentures fit properly and help identify problems early.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods supports gum tissue and jawbone health.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease and other complications.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps prevent dry mouth and keeps your mouth clean.
- Be Mindful of Fit: If your dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, contact your dentist immediately for denture relining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing dentures 24/7 can lead to gum irritation, dry mouth, and infections. It’s important to remove them at night to give your gums a break and clean them thoroughly.
Yes, missing teeth can lead to jawbone shrinkage over time. Dental implants or other restorative dentistry options can help preserve bone health.
Properly fitting dentures should feel comfortable and secure. If you experience pain, difficulty eating, or loose dentures, schedule an adjustment with your dentist.
Take Control of Your Oral Health Today
Dentures can transform your smile and improve your quality of life, but they require proper care to avoid complications. At Mint Dental in Pearl, MS, our skilled team is here to help you maintain good oral health and address any denture-related concerns.
If you’re experiencing gum irritation, difficulty eating, or other denture problems, don’t wait—call us at (601) 882-5600 to schedule an appointment. Let us help you enjoy the benefits of dentures while minimizing the risks.