Worn-Out Dentures? 5 Clues It’s Time for a New Set
Dentures are meant to restore your smile, confidence, and ability to eat comfortably. But over time, they can wear out, causing discomfort and functional issues. Many people ignore the warning signs, assuming discomfort is normal. The truth is, outdated dentures can lead to gum irritation, difficulty chewing, and even changes in facial structure.
If you’re experiencing problems with your dentures, knowing when to replace them can prevent unnecessary pain and frustration. Here are five clear signs it’s time for a new set of dentures in Decatur, AL.
1. Your Dentures Feel Loose or Unstable
Well-fitting dentures should stay secure throughout the day. If yours shift when talking or eating, they may have lost their snug fit. Over time, changes in gum tissue and jawbone structure affect how dentures sit in your mouth. This natural bone resorption causes gaps between the dentures and your gums, leading to discomfort and instability.
What Causes Loose Dentures?
- Bone loss: Without natural teeth, your jawbone gradually shrinks.
- Worn-out material: Denture bases and clasps degrade over time.
- Poor fit from the start: If your dentures were never properly fitted, issues may arise sooner.
Solutions for Loose Dentures
A denture reline might help in mild cases, but a replacement is the best option if your dentures frequently slip. Implant-supported dentures offer a more stable alternative by anchoring them directly to the jawbone.
2. Pain, Sores, or Irritation on Your Gums
Well-maintained dentures should feel comfortable. If you’re experiencing sore spots, frequent ulcers, or gum irritation, your dentures might be the problem. Poorly fitting dentures create uneven pressure, leading to painful friction on soft tissues.
Common Causes of Denture Pain
- Shrinkage of the gum ridge: Bone and gum structure changes can lead to an improper fit.
- Cracks or sharp edges: Worn-down dentures develop rough spots that can cause sores.
- Overuse of adhesives: Relying on adhesive to keep dentures in place is a sign they no longer fit properly.
How to Fix Denture Discomfort
If minor discomfort persists, your dentist can adjust your dentures. However, chronic irritation may indicate it’s time for a new set designed to fit your mouth’s current shape.
3. Chewing Becomes a Struggle
Eating should be effortless with properly fitted dentures. If you find yourself avoiding certain foods or struggling to chew, your dentures might be worn down. Excessive wear on the biting surfaces affects how they function, making it harder to break down food.
Signs Your Dentures Are Affecting Your Diet
- Food feels harder to chew than before
- You experience frequent indigestion from swallowing larger pieces
- Your bite feels uneven or weak
The Best Fix for Worn-Down Dentures
If chewing has become difficult, a replacement will restore function and comfort. Modern dentures are designed to provide better bite efficiency so you can enjoy meals without frustration.
4. Speech Changes or Lisping
Dentures impact how your tongue and lips interact to form words. If you notice slurring, lisping, or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, worn-out dentures could be the culprit.
Why Do Dentures Affect Speech?
- Loose fit: Unstable dentures shift during conversation.
- Worn-down teeth: A decrease in height or structure alters tongue placement.
- Changes in gum support: Your mouth adapts to denture shape over time, leading to misalignment.
What to Do If Your Speech Is Affected
Practicing with difficult words and reading aloud can help, but if your speech hasn’t improved, new dentures may be necessary. A properly fitted set will restore natural speech patterns.
Need to Upgrade Your Dentures in Decatur, AL?
If you have loose, painful, or ineffective dentures, replacing them can make a huge difference. At Terry Family Dentistry, we provide high-quality dentures in Decatur, AL, designed for comfort, function, and aesthetics. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and regain the confidence of a well-fitting smile.