Dentures can replace missing teeth and give a patient a fully-functional smile with a natural appearance. We can measure the patient's mouth and develop dentures for the patient's teeth, but we cannot be at the patient's home 24/7. There may be times in which the patient damages the dentures and needs to seek treatment at our office.
While damage or natural wear and tear to dentures is inevitable, we can help patients prevent possible damage and other issues by going over the best methods for effective denture use prior to receiving dentures. Here are a few problems that patients with dentures struggle with and the solution to each.
Problem: Dentures become loose over time
Solution: Seek professional adjustment at our office
Over time, dentures will begin to loosen due to the gums and bones changing. Since there are no longer teeth within the jawbone to stimulate the jaw and the body that teeth are still there, the body will go through a process known as resorption. This process leeches calcium from the jaw bone to other areas of the body in need. Fortunately, we can adjust modify or replace denture as necessary with regular appointments.
When the dentures feel loose, it will not always be a noticeable amount. In some cases, it will begin as a slight shift that the patient may not even notice. However, even if the dentures are only slightly loose, it is crucial to seek repairs from our office.
Problem: Irritation in the gums or mouth
Solution: Proper care and professional treatment
If the dentures do not fit properly, they can cause irritation on the gums or within the mouth. In cases where the dentures begin to loosen after several months of use, there is a higher chance that the gums will begin to hurt. If the patient continues to feel pain or irritation, then give us a call and schedule an appointment.
The best solution is prevention, if at all possible. By taking the proper precautionary steps, patients can prolong the life of their dentures. When the gums continue to experience irritation, we recommend scheduling an appointment for us to examine the mouth and see what is wrong.
Problem: What to do when traveling with dentures
Solution: Bring the proper cleaning supplies
While one will not need a traveling case for taking the dentures on a flight or car ride, it is crucial to have the proper cleaning tools for the trip. Traveling with dentures can be easy if one brings the proper cleaning fluid and container/glass to soak the denture in overnight.
Similar to bringing a toothbrush, patients need to bring whatever solution or brush they use to clean their dentures with them. Even though one is on vacation, keeping dentures in the best shape possible is important for one's overall health.
We look forward to meeting you.
Call 760-346-1414 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We'll be in touch soon.