When your dentures fit properly, it’s easy to forget they’re there so you can just enjoy life. But with time, your prosthetics can often begin to change shape or become worn or damaged. When this occurs, they may begin to cause a variety of oral health problems that can take your focus off enjoying life and put it squarely onto your painful smile. While it may not seem like ill-fitting prosthetics could really be that problematic, here are five dangers of damaged dentures, and what you should do if they happen to you!
Trouble Speaking
Speaking with new dentures takes a little bit of practice but eventually will become second nature. Unfortunately, however, if your prosthetics become damaged due to wear or improper fit, it can begin to affect your speech again, even years after you’ve had them. This may result in a lisp, or in your restorations clicking or shifting when you try to talk.
Eating Difficulties
When your dentures fit and feel great, they can help you enjoy a wide range of delicious, healthy foods. With time, however, they may begin to change shape or become broken due to wear or accidental damage. When this occurs, it can limit your diet, causing malnutrition or indigestion due to the inability to chew your food completely.
Mouth Blisters
Mouth blisters can develop when your dentures rub against your gums and soft tissues due to improper fit. Not only is this painful, but it can also increase your risk of periodontal infection which may lead to things like gum disease and cost you more of your remaining natural teeth or portions of your jawbone.
Damage to Remaining Teeth
If you still have any natural teeth, improperly fitting dentures could put them at risk, too. That’s because if they wear them down or rub against them, it could cause sensitivity, or even chip or crack them. It can even damage dental implants if you have those!
Swollen Gums
Dentures that don’t fit correctly can rub against the soft tissues in your mouth, creating friction, pressure, and inflammation. This can increase your risk of bleeding and painful oral injuries.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Now that you know all the ways poorly fitting dentures can put your health at risk, the good news is that your dentist can help protect your smile and prevent each of these negative side effects. If your prosthetics have begun exhibiting signs of wear, including improper fit, cracks, chips, or any other damage, it’s time to have them evaluated. In some cases, you may just need a reline, or in others a full replacement may be required. Either way, your dentist is the best person to help, and can easily bring back your beautiful, pain-free smile so you can once again enjoy all the benefits of a full set of teeth!
About Our Practice
At Hanford Family Dental Center, Dr. Raiyani and Dr. Randhawa want you to have a healthy, beautiful, comfortable smile. If your dentures are showing signs of wear and tear, don’t suffer in silence. Schedule an appointment for a denture exam today and let us find a solution to bring back your gorgeous, pain-free grin. To book your appointment, visit our website or call us today at 559-530-8080.