Understanding the Risks of Dentures and Potential Complications

Our Kennett Square Dentist Breaks Down Risks and Complications of Dentures

While dentures can be an effective way to restore a person’s ability to eat, speak, and smile, they also come with potential complications. Gum irritation, mouth infections, and difficulty speaking are among the most common risks associated with dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can cause pain, discomfort, and potential health issues, impacting eating, speaking, and oral health. It’s important to seek professional dental help to adjust or remedy ill-fitting dentures.

Understanding these risks and how to prevent them can help individuals make informed decisions about their dental care and maintain good oral health. Contact Kennett Center for Advanced Dentistry today by calling 610-444-6311 to schedule an appointment.

Denture Risks and Complications for Denture Wearers

Gum Irritation

Wearing dentures can cause gum irritation, particularly if they don’t fit properly or if they’re not properly cleaned. Dentures rubbing against the gums can cause irritation and discomfort. This can lead to soreness, redness, and inflammation in the gums, which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to wear the dentures.

Mouth Infections

If dentures are not properly cleaned, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which can lead to mouth infections. Poor dental hygiene can lead to discomfort or inflammation in the mouth. Poor hygiene can also cause bad breath, which can be embarrassing and socially isolating.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common problem for denture wearers. This is because dentures can rub against the gums and irritate the salivary glands. A dry mouth can make it difficult to keep the dentures clean and can also lead to other problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, dry mouth can be a common issue for those with new dentures, and it may take time to adjust.

Difficulty Speaking and Eating

Dentures can feel bulky and uncomfortable, which can make it difficult to eat and speak properly. Unlike natural teeth, which are securely anchored in the gums, dentures may cause slippage and require adjustments for comfort and function. It may take some time to adjust to the new prosthesis, and some people may never fully adapt to wearing dentures.

Changes in Taste

Dentures can cover the taste buds on the roof of the mouth, which can make it difficult to taste food properly. Some people may also experience a metallic taste in their mouth due to the materials used to make the dentures. Partial dentures, which have replacement teeth connected to a plastic base and possibly a metal framework matching the color of the gums, can also affect taste depending on their design and fit.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a problem for denture wearers. This is because bacteria can grow on the dentures, especially if they are not cleaned properly. Using denture adhesive can help improve the fit of dentures and reduce bacteria buildup, thereby reducing bad breath.

Bone Loss

When teeth are missing, the jawbone can start to shrink over time. This can cause dentures to become loose and ill-fitting, which can lead to discomfort and difficulty eating. Bone loss can also affect the appearance of the face, causing a sunken or aged look.

Gum Disease

Dentures can trap food particles and bacteria, which can lead to gum disease if not properly cleaned. Denture wearers should clean their prostheses thoroughly after each meal and brush their gums and tongues to prevent gum disease.

Dentures Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is a common fungal infection that occurs in the mouth of denture wearers. It is caused by a buildup of bacteria and yeast on the dentures. Symptoms include redness, soreness, and white patches on the gums.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can happen if I wear my dentures all the time?

Wearing your dentures all the time can increase the risk of some complications, such as:

• Irritation and inflammation of the gums: Dentures that are worn all the time can put pressure on the gums, which can lead to irritation and inflammation. This can cause pain, redness, and swelling.
• Dry mouth: Dentures can rub against the gums and irritate the salivary glands, which can lead to a dry mouth. A dry mouth can make it difficult to keep the dentures clean and can also lead to other problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
• Infections: Dentures can harbor bacteria, which can lead to infections in the mouth, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and pneumonia.

How can I prevent denture problems with proper denture care?

There are a few things you can do to prevent denture problems, including:

• Take good care of your dentures: This includes brushing and flossing them daily, using a denture cleaner, and having them adjusted by your dentist as needed.
• See your dentist regularly: This will help to identify any problems early on and prevent them from getting worse.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of gum disease and other problems that can lead to denture complications.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help to keep your gums and jaw bones healthy, which can help to prevent denture problems.
• Be aware of your dentures: Be aware of how your dentures fit and feel, and report any problems to your dentist right away.

Learn More About Dentures Today!

While dentures can provide many benefits, they do come with some risks. To minimize the risk of complications, it’s important to properly clean and care for your dentures, and to see our Kennett Square dentist regularly for checkups and adjustments.

If you experience any problems with your dentures, such as gum irritation, mouth infections, or difficulty speaking, be sure to contact Dr. Peter Patellis at 610-444-6311 for advice and treatment.