Dentures are a source of joy for many patients with partial or complete tooth loss. However, Ill-fitting dentures can lead to a range of problems that affect both oral health and your health overall. Who knew that such a seemingly simple issue could turn out to be so hazardous? If you want to learn more about how poorly fitting dentures affect your health, continue reading.
1. Oral Sores
The constant friction between improperly fitted dentures and the gums can create infections and sores. When the gum tissue is eventually rubbed raw, breaking the skin, bacteria can enter the irritated areas. This leads to inflamed gums with infected sores that require prompt attention from a dentist.
2. Jawbone Resorption
When dentures are fitted properly, they evenly distribute the force of chewing along the entire ridge of the gums. However, warped, or ill-fitting dentures may contribute to the breakdown of bone in your jaw. Over time, this process actually shrinks the jawbone and distorts your facial features.
3. Speech Impediments
Properly fitted dentures are essential for clear speech. Many sounds are made by using the tongue against the teeth. Because of this, when dentures are loose, you may feel several speech impediments like slurring and clicking. This can severely dampen communication and self-confidence.
4. Trouble Eating
It can be quite a daunting task to chew with loose or ill-fitting dentures. Proper alignment is necessary to ensure that food is able to be sliced and chewed. Without this, dentures will tilt, slip, or even fall out while trying to eat.
5. Oral Cancer
Continuing to wear dentures that don’t fit properly has been linked with upticks in oral cancer, especially among seniors. It’s important to note that the dentures themselves don’t cause cancer. The opportunity that loose dentures create for oral bacteria to move below the gumline and accumulate is the cause. This can be made worse if you also happen to smoke, chew tobacco, or drink a lot of alcohol.
Ill-fitting dentures are no joke. As you can see, they can cause many maladies ranging from irritating to deadly. If you’re experiencing any discomfort or challenges with your dentures, it’s important to seek professional assistance quickly. This is key to supporting a comfortable and functional smile for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Puneet Sandhu, DDS is the owner and lead dentist at Complete Dental Care Paradise Valley in Phoenix, AZ. A graduate of the University of Arizona where he completed his degree in physiology with a minor in chemistry in just three years, he went on to earn his dental degree from UCLA. Dr. Sandhu is a faculty member of Spear Education, the world’s largest dental education organization, and holds a Fellowship with the International Dental Implant Association as well as memberships with the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Known for his warm, easy-going approach and his belief that patients are true partners in their own care, his clinical focus is full mouth reconstruction and comprehensive restorative dentistry. Outside the office, Dr. Sandhu enjoys Cardinals and Giants football and spending time with his family.
call (480) 526-4317 to schedule a consultation at Complete Dental Care, or visit the website to explore the services they offer.
