Wearing dentures can significantly improve your quality of life by restoring your smile, enhancing your ability to eat, and boosting your confidence. However, like any dental device, dentures are not without their challenges. Many people experience common issues with their dentures, but the good news is that most of these problems can be easily resolved with the help of a professional denture clinic in Edmonton.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common denture problems and provide practical solutions to keep your dentures comfortable, functional, and long-lasting.
1. Denture Discomfort
One of the most frequent issues denture wearers experience is discomfort. Whether it’s soreness, irritation, or a general feeling of unease, discomfort can affect your ability to wear your dentures regularly. This discomfort is often caused by an improper fit, which can occur over time as the shape of your gums and jaw changes.
Solution:
The best way to address denture discomfort is to visit a denture clinic in Edmonton for an adjustment. Your denturist can modify the fit of your dentures to ensure they rest comfortably on your gums. Regular check-ups and adjustments are essential to maintaining a comfortable fit as your mouth changes.
2. Loose Dentures
Loose dentures are another common problem that can make eating, speaking, and smiling difficult. Dentures become loose due to natural changes in the mouth, such as gum shrinkage or bone loss, which can cause them to no longer fit snugly.
Solution:
If your dentures feel loose, a reline or rebase may be necessary. A denture clinic in Edmonton can perform these procedures to improve the fit of your dentures. A soft reline involves adding a cushioning material to the denture base for a more secure fit, while a hard reline involves reshaping the denture base. In some cases, a new set of dentures may be required if the changes to your mouth are significant.
3. Difficulty Chewing
Chewing with dentures can take some getting used to, especially for new denture wearers. If you’re having trouble eating certain foods, it may be due to an improper bite or uneven pressure when chewing. This can lead to difficulty breaking down food, which can affect your nutrition and overall health.
Solution:
If chewing remains a challenge after an adjustment period, it’s important to visit a denture clinic in Edmonton for an evaluation. Your denturist can adjust the alignment of your dentures to improve your bite and make chewing more efficient. Additionally, starting with softer foods and gradually introducing tougher foods can help ease the transition.
4. Speech Difficulties
It’s common to experience speech difficulties when you first start wearing dentures. Certain sounds, particularly “s” and “f” sounds, may be harder to pronounce clearly. This occurs because your tongue and lips need time to adjust to the new shape and size of your dentures.
Solution:
Practice speaking out loud to get used to your dentures. Reading aloud or speaking in front of a mirror can help you adjust your speech patterns. If speech difficulties persist, a visit to a denture clinic in Edmonton can help. Your denturist may be able to make slight adjustments to improve the way your dentures fit, making speaking easier.
5. Denture Sores and Irritation
Denture sores, also known as pressure sores, can develop when dentures rub against the gums or other soft tissues in the mouth. This irritation can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort, making it difficult to wear your dentures for extended periods.
Solution:
To alleviate denture sores, try removing your dentures for several hours each day to give your gums time to rest. You can also use a denture adhesive to reduce movement and minimize rubbing. If sores persist, visit a denture clinic in Edmonton for an adjustment. A soft reline or adjustment can help redistribute pressure and prevent further irritation.
6. Bad Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a common problem for denture wearers, especially if dentures are not cleaned properly. Bacteria and food particles can accumulate on the surface of dentures, leading to unpleasant odors and an increased risk of gum infections.
Solution:
The key to preventing bad breath is maintaining good denture hygiene. Clean your dentures daily with a soft brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner. Additionally, soak your dentures overnight to ensure they stay clean and free of bacteria. Regular visits to a denture clinic in Edmonton for professional cleaning can also help keep your dentures fresh and odor-free.
7. Stained or Discolored Dentures
Over time, dentures can become stained or discolored, especially if you regularly consume staining foods and drinks like coffee, tea, or red wine. Smoking can also contribute to discoloration.
Solution:
To prevent stains, avoid foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, and quit smoking if possible. If your dentures are already stained, visit a denture clinic in Edmonton for professional cleaning. Your denturist can polish your dentures to remove surface stains and restore their original appearance. In severe cases, you may need to replace your dentures to achieve a brighter, more natural-looking smile.
8. Broken or Damaged Dentures
Accidents happen, and dentures can sometimes break, crack, or chip. Whether it’s from dropping them or biting into something hard, broken dentures can be a major inconvenience.
Solution:
If your dentures are damaged, don’t try to fix them yourself with over-the-counter repair kits, as this can cause further damage. Instead, take them to a denture clinic in Edmonton for professional repair. Many clinics offer same-day or next-day repair services, so you won’t have to go without your dentures for long.
9. Excessive Saliva
Some denture wearers may notice an increase in saliva production when they first start wearing dentures. This is a normal reaction as your mouth adjusts to the presence of a foreign object. However, excessive saliva can make wearing dentures uncomfortable or embarrassing.
Solution:
The good news is that excessive saliva usually subsides within a few weeks as your mouth adjusts to the dentures. If the problem persists, consult with a denturist at a denture clinic in Edmonton. They can check the fit of your dentures and offer advice on managing saliva production.
10. Poor Denture Retention
Poor retention is when dentures do not stay in place, making them difficult to wear and increasing the risk of slippage. This can occur due to bone loss or an improper fit.
Solution:
If your dentures are not staying in place, a denture adhesive may provide temporary relief. However, for long-term retention, a visit to a denture clinic in Edmonton is necessary. Your denturist can recommend a reline or adjustment to improve the fit. In some cases, implant-supported dentures may be an option for better retention and stability.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I visit a denture clinic for maintenance?
It’s recommended to visit a denture clinic in Edmonton at least once a year for check-ups and professional cleaning. If you experience discomfort or changes in fit, schedule an appointment sooner.
Q2: What should I do if my dentures feel loose?
If your dentures feel loose, contact a denturist for an adjustment or reline. Avoid using home repair kits, as they can damage your dentures.
Q3: Can I sleep with my dentures in?
While it’s possible to sleep with dentures in, it’s generally recommended to remove them at night to give your gums a break and allow for proper cleaning.
Q4: How can I prevent denture stains?
To prevent denture stains, avoid staining foods and beverages, and clean your dentures daily. Regular professional cleanings at a denture clinic in Edmonton can also help.
Q5: What should I do if my dentures break?
If your dentures break, contact a denture clinic in Edmonton for repair. Do not attempt to fix them yourself, as this can cause further damage.
Conclusion
Although wearing dentures can come with some challenges, most common denture problems can be easily solved with proper care and regular visits to a denture clinic in Edmonton. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, loose dentures, or difficulty chewing, a professional denturist can provide the necessary adjustments and repairs to ensure that your dentures continue to function effectively and comfortably. By addressing these issues promptly, you can enjoy the many benefits of wearing dentures and maintain your oral health for years to come.
