picture of dental lab worker relining a denture, denture challenges

Common Issues With Traditional Dentures and Their Solutions

December 18, 2024 9:00 am

Traditional dentures can be a life-changing solution for people who’ve lost their natural teeth, restoring their ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, like any dental appliance, dentures can come with their own set of challenges. The good news is that most of these issues have simple solutions, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable and functional smile. Let’s explore some common issues with traditional dentures and how you can overcome them.

    1. Slipping or Shifting Dentures

    One of the most common complaints about dentures is that they can slip or move around, especially while eating or speaking. This usually happens when dentures no longer fit snugly due to natural changes in your gums and jaw over time.

    Solution: Regular adjustments can help keep your dentures secure. In some cases, a denture adhesive may provide extra stability. If the fit has significantly changed, it may be time to reline or replace your dentures for a better fit.

    2. Sore Spots or Irritation

    New dentures or poorly fitting ones can sometimes cause sore spots or irritation on your gums.

    Solution: Your dentist can adjust the fit to eliminate pressure points and ensure even distribution of force. In the meantime, rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe irritated areas.

    3. Difficulty Eating Certain Foods

    Crunchy, sticky, or tough foods can pose a challenge for denture wearers.

    Solution: Start with soft foods while adjusting to your dentures, then gradually reintroduce more textured options. Cutting food into smaller pieces can also make it easier to chew.

    4. Speech Difficulties

    It’s not unusual to experience difficulty pronouncing certain words when first wearing dentures.

    Solution: Practice speaking out loud to adjust to the feel of your dentures. Reading aloud or reciting tongue twisters can help you regain confidence more quickly.

    5. Dentures Losing Their Shine

    Over time, dentures can stain or develop plaque, just like natural teeth.

    Solution: Clean your dentures daily with a soft denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface.

    6. Candida and Dentures

    Wearing dentures can sometimes create the perfect environment for Candida, a type of yeast, to thrive. When dentures aren’t cleaned properly or are worn overnight, moisture and trapped food particles can lead to a fungal infection called denture stomatitis. This condition causes redness, irritation, and discomfort on the gums beneath the dentures.

    Solution: Remove your dentures at night to let your gums breathe, and clean them thoroughly each day. Antifungal treatments prescribed by your dentist may also be necessary if Candida overgrowth occurs.

Comfortable Dentures at Lynn Lane Family Dentistry in Broken Arrow, OK

If you’re experiencing challenges with your dentures, Dr. Valerie Holleman and the caring team at Lynn Lane Family Dentistry are here to help. We specialize in creating and maintaining comfortable, well-fitting dentures so you can enjoy life without the hassle. Located in Broken Arrow, OK, we’re ready to help you smile confidently again. Call us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you find the solutions you need!

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0



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