Dentures are a versatile way to replace some or all of your missing teeth. Wearing your prosthetics closes the gaps in your grin so that you can eat, speak, and smile more confidently.
Regardless of how many teeth you have remaining, it’s still important to visit your dentist every six months for a routine examination and cleaning to monitor your oral health. For instance, routine visits allow them to check the fit of your dentures to avoid potential problems. Continue reading to learn about 3 issues that an ill-fitted restoration can cause!
Concern #1: Sores or Blisters
The gum-colored acrylic base of your dentures relies on a firm suction against your gums over the bony ridges in your mouth to stay firmly in place. Unfortunately, your jawbone begins to thin after adult teeth go missing. As it weakens, this foundation eventually becomes loose or destabilized. This can rub raw spots into your connective tissues, making it uncomfortable to wear your restoration.
Your dentist can help reline or replace your dentures to improve their fit for another five to seven years, if they’re cared for correctly. Also, be sure to remove them at night and leave them to soak in water or a special cleaning solution. This retains their shape while giving your gums enough time to rest and recover.
Concern #2: Speech Impediments
You rely on two complete arches to clearly enunciate different words, and under normal circumstances, your dentures function as artificial teeth to fulfill this function. Unfortunately, if they no longer fit well, you might struggle to keep them in place while speaking, which can result in a lisp, slur, or other changes to your speech patterns.
Your dentist can help you overcome these concerns by making the necessary adjustments to the lining or providing a new restoration.
Concern #3: Malnutrition
Having a well-fitted prosthetic is also essential to your ability to bite and chew wholesome foods to maintain your oral and overall health. If they’re wobbly in your mouth or are easily displaced, you might have a hard time grinding up your meals enough to be easily swallowed and digested. This can contribute to other medical concerns, like gastrointestinal issues from consuming large pieces, or malnutrition if your body can’t absorb nutrients sufficiently.
Improving the fit of your dentures can also increase your bite force so that you can eat a variety of ingredients that support your dental and general well-being. For example, dairy products have calcium for strong teeth and bones, and many citrus fruits and leafy greens are high in vitamin C to support your connective tissues.
Improving the fit of your dentures helps preserve your oral health while simultaneously enhancing your smile’s appearance so you can look and feel like the best version of yourself!
About the Practice
At Galleria Dentistry, patients benefit from a family of dentists eager to help you build and maintain a happy, healthy smile. Drs. Gery, Chelsea, and Anthony Benza collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs at one convenient location, and are happy to offer lifelike dentures to restore your smile. Their caring approach, combined with advanced technology, can help you feel comfortable while they deliver accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (239) 592-5112.