Dentures are among the most effective tooth restoration solutions, and countless generations of patients have turned toward the prosthetics to rebuild their smiles in terms of beauty and functionality. But unfortunately, some struggle with dentures that stubbornly refuse to stay in place, particularly lower dentures. Here’s more from your dentist about why this can happen and some ways your dentist can remedy the issue!
What Causes Dentures to Shift Out of Place?
It’s pretty easy to tell if your lower denture is loose; you might endure symptoms like looseness during speech, eating, and whenever you open your mouth, as well as pain when you bite or chew. This can be pretty aggravating; however, it can sometimes be just as frustrating trying to determine what’s causing the issue. That’s why you should turn to your trusted dentist to identify and then handle the issue.
In any case, some common explanations for the issue include things like:
- Changes to the jaw’s anatomy, which can occur after losing teeth, and can impact how well you’re able to support a lower denture.
- Damage to the denture, either to the prosthetic teeth or the base.
- Poorly designed dentures; these often fall short of their expectations and rarely fit correctly.
- Decreased saliva production; if your saliva production is lowered or compromised, it can cause the denture to not fit as intended.
- Inability to exert control, since the patient must alter how they chew and control their tongue to help keep the denture in place.
How Can I Keep My Lower Denture from Slipping?
Here are three possible ways your dentist can resolve the issue:
- A reline of the denture, in which your dentist will readapt the base to your current ridge anatomy. This can usually be done within a single appointment.
- When a reline isn’t possible, a new denture is usually a good option.
- You could also consider an alternative to a removable denture, such as having dental implants placed to secure your denture, which is arguably the best alternative and most effective solution as they’re intended to last for several decades.
You don’t have to suffer through life with a lower denture that won’t stay in place; by knowing what causes the issue and having the means to address it,
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Villescas has proudly served patients and families in the Port Charlotte, FL area for several years. Dr. Villescas received his DDS from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has spent countless hours continuing his education in a wide variety of fields, and his practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of treatment options including restorative solutions like dentures. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule a consultation, you can contact Dr. Villescas online or over the phone for further information or assistance: (941) 627-9900.