Most people would never just reply with a simple yes to this question; they may often have at least a small complaint about their dentures and would prefer an improvement. This may be due to the fact that we grow up with our teeth, and when we lose it, we go through a change and have to learn to adapt to prosthetic teeth. Adaptation at seniority may also tend to be difficult. However, there are newer techniques and better solutions in how to deal with dentures.
As people age, their mouths change. The gum ridges and bone shrink causing the dentures to loosen and not fit properly. Proper care and regular dental visits are important factors for keeping your mouth healthy and your dentures in good shape.
If you are facing the following dental problems then you should consider changing your denture:
- Denture slipping and moving
- Speaking difficulties and unwanted sounds like clicking, whistling, smacking
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- Lack of suction or adhesion
- Wrinkles above or around lips or at the corners of mouth
- Sore spots in the mouth
- Soreness at the corners of the mouth
- Worn out teeth
It’s always best to seek the dentists help when a denture is not comfortable and not try repairing it by yourself at home. When a dentist repairs or adjusts dentures, he uses dental materials that are made specifically for dentures. Other over the counter products may worsen the situation and contain harmful chemicals. The denture may have to be relined, rebased or replaced according to the problem. Generally a denture can be used for 5-7 years before a replacement is necessary.
Caring for Your Dentures
- You should brush you dentures with a soft bristled tooth brush to remove food and plaque. It also prevents the formation of stains on the dentures. Be careful not to damage the plastic or bend attachments. In between brushings rinse your denture after every meal.
- Hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid can be used for cleaning dentures. Ultra sonic cleaners can also be used. It is a small bath tub like device that contains a cleaning solution. The denture is immersed in the tub and then sound waves create a wave motion that dislodges the undesirable deposits.
- Dentures should always be handled over a folded towel or a sink full of water as they may crack or break when dropped.
- When not being worn dentures need to kept moist by placing it in a bowl of water but never hot water as it causes warping.
- Make sure you do not have any long time denture inflicted wounds or ulcers. Just because it does not cause pain it does not mean you should ignore it. Any persistent ulcers should be evaluated by a dentist as it can lead to oral cancer.
With good care and regular dental visits every 6 months your dentures should fit well and stay in good shape for a long time. So put on your dentures and smile.
