Signs That You Need To Replace Or Repair Your Dental Plate

Dentures are a removable replacement for natural teeth. They are made of acrylic resin and metal, and there are several types, including: Full dentures, Partial dentures, Flexible partial dentures, and Implant dentures. Dentures allow many individuals to speak, eat, and smile normally. Dental experts estimate that more than 20 million Americans wear dentures. If you have dentures, you know you must care for them properly to ensure they last as long as possible.

Just like natural teeth, dentures require proper care in order to extend their life for as long as possible and get the most of your money. If your dentures are in need of any sort of repair or replacement, it’s important not to delay. This can not only shorten their lifespan, but also cause serious oral issues. Here are signs that you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Having Difficulty Chewing

The primary purpose of getting dentures is to restore your ability to eat, and there is an initial adjustment period where you will need to get used to eating with dentures. However, if the dentures remain uncomfortable or start to irritate your mouth after they were previously comfortable, then it could mean they need an adjustment as they are no longer a fit for your mouth.

2. Cracked Dentures

Sometimes a damaged tooth may not break away from the entire set, but instead develop a crack or a chip. You may still be able to wear the dentures, but you can cut the tissues in your mouth, which can cause severe irritation or infection. Visit your denturist quickly to repair your damaged dentures. Getting regular readjustments are important, as wearing ill-fitting dentures can lead to sores in the mouth.

3. General Discomfort

Dentures shouldn’t cause you any sort of discomfort in the mouth. Any discomfort such as uneven pressure, soreness, pain, or looseness means that the dentures are no longer right for you.

If an adjustment or reline cannot solve the problem, you may need to have your dentures replaced to get ones that fit properly.

4. Changed Facial Appearance

Dentures are supposed to make you look the same as you did when you had your natural teeth. If you notice any sagging, wrinkles, a sunken look in your jaw line or cheeks, or just a more aged appearance, it could mean that your dentures need a readjustment or replacement.

5. Broken Dentures

It’s not uncommon for people to drop their dentures. However, if you do so and one of your teeth detaches from the denture, bring it to a professional for repair. Never try to attach it yourself using a household adhesive.

6. Loose or Slipping Dentures

If you have been wearing dentures comfortably for some time and suddenly notice that your dentures do not fit properly any more, it means that the shape of your gums have changed. This is quite common among denture wearers and is an indication that it’s time for a denture readjustment.

7. Bad Breath

Dentures require regular cleaning and rinsing. However, if you notice that you have bad breath even after taking proper care of your dentures, then you might want to get your dentures checked. Your dentures could have cracks in them or they may be stained, which may be causing the bad odor to linger in your mouth.

8. Pressure Changes

Pressure sores are caused from ill-fitting dentures. It can develop if your dentures are not well fitted for your mouth. Also in places on your gums where the dentures put more pressure on certain areas of your gums. Pressure from the dentures should be distributed evenly  across your gums. If a pressure sore does develop, it is a good indicator as to where your dentures need to be adjusted.

Keep your dentures clean and store them in a safe place when not using them. Schedule checkups every six months or as recommended by the dentist or denturist. For more information about prolonging the life of your artificial teeth, talk to your dental specialist.