Ask a Dentist: Why Shouldn’t I Wear Loose Dentures?

Dentures Chamblee, GA

Let's cut to the root of the matter: wearing loose dentures is uncomfortable, dangerous, and often a source of embarrassment for their wearers - mainly when speaking or enjoying a meal. 

Many patients don't realize the potential long-term impact of wearing loose dentures or that they don't have to spend months or years dealing with ill-fitting and uncomfortable ones.  

How do they become loose?

The number-one cause of loose dentures is called bone resorption. They work by gripping the patient's gum line, allowing for a snug and natural fit. Unfortunately, because the jaw is no longer actively being used to secure and support the teeth, both the jaw and gums begin to recede over time. 

This is the process referred to as bone resorption and the leading cause of looseness. While practicing good oral health can slow this process, many patients will still suffer denture discomfort because of the phenomena at some point in their lives. 

What are the risks?

There are many severe downsides to living with loose dentures. These include long and short-term health issues, as well as social embarrassment and discomfort during daily activity.  

Other common issues:

  • Inflamed and painful gums
  • Frequent oral sores
  • Persistent headaches due to an uneven bite
  • Nutrient deficiencies due to difficulty eating
  • Advanced bone resorption in the jaw

More severe health risks include an increased risk of oral cancer and fungal infections of the mouth.

Other considerations

Many of our patients also report loss of confidence and self-esteem when they experience this looseness. Patients' discomfort and embarrassment when their dentures become dislodged at inopportune moments can cause significant mental distress and social anxiety. 

Some patients suffering from looseness also notice undesired changes to their facial structure and appearance. This occurs because the teeth (and, by extension, dentures) play a vital role in supporting and "rounding out" the cheeks. Patients with looseness may notice sunken or depressed cheeks and other facial features. 

Another social consequence of this looseness be a change in speech. Dentures that have excess movement in the mouth or become easily dislodged often cause lisps, slurred speech, difficulty pronouncing certain words, and excessive salivation when speaking. 

How to tell if yours are loose

We always suggest scheduling an appointment with your dental specialist for the most precise diagnosis, but you may be suffering from loose dentures if you frequently:

  • Experience gagging due to denture movement.
  • Have red or swollen gums.
  • Readjust them when speaking or eating.
  • Struggle to bite or chew properly.
  • Notice an increase in slurring, lisping, or salivating during speech.

Other less frequent symptoms include:

  • Changes to appearance and facial structure
  • Pressure sores 
  • Angular Cheilitis
  • Stomatitis 
  • Advanced bone resorption
  • And more

Luckily, this all can be treated by a skilled dental professional. While irritating, loose dentures are by no means uncommon, giving rise to various effective treatments.

Request an appointment here: https://chambleedental.com or call Chamblee Dental Care at (770) 238-4316 for an appointment in our Chamblee office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dentures in Chamblee, GA.

Recent Posts

When Denture Repair Is Needed

Dentures and partial dentures require denture repair as needed, depending on the stage of your oral health, including any damage or wear that has occurred to the denture over time. If you notice that they are worn out or cracked, it's time to head to the dentist and get them fixed up so that you…

Why It's Important To Leave Denture Repair To A Dental Professional

In need of a denture repair? Those who wear dentures often find a need to have them repaired at one point or another. These tooth replacement appliances are extremely susceptible to damages. Their delicate materials make them extremely durable, but also prone to things like cracking or chipping. A common question that comes along with denture…

Choosing The Right Dental Professional For Denture Repair

Have a need for a denture repair? A lot of those wearing dentures often come across a need to have them repaired. Accidents happen and dentures are extremely delicate, which makes them prone to damage. However, with the help of the right dental professional, denture repair can be seamless. The following information is important for those…

Temporary Dentures? What Happens During Denture Repair?

Over time, dentures can become worn or damaged, resulting in a need for denture repair. While dentures are meant to be a permanent solution, they do experience wear and tear. Additionally, unforeseeable accidents can happen. Whether dentures are broken or simply worn, it may be necessary to undergo a denture repair, which may consist of…

Recent Posts

Ways To Know If Professional Teeth Whitening Is Right For You

3 Ways To Know If Professional Teeth Whitening Is Right For You

Looking into the different teeth whitening options and wondering if you should choose the professional route? Even though it is easier than ever to whiten one’s teeth with over-the-counter options, generic whitening options tend not to be a good idea for many people. Ready to find out more about the professional teeth whitening route?Learning the…

Can Periodontics Help Prevent Dental Emergencies?

Can Periodontics Help Prevent Dental Emergencies?

Periodontics care is specialized dental care for treating and preventing periodontal disease from reappearing. Scaling and root planing may be performed on patients with periodontal disease to eliminate bacterial plaque and other toxins. Gum disease-causing bacteria can reappear three to four months after initial treatment. As a result, the dentist will recommend coming for cleanings…