Nowadays, dentures are a tried-and-true solution to missing teeth. They are made of high-quality materials that help them last for years. However, this tooth replacement option isn’t made to last forever, as it’ll eventually need to be replaced. Finding when it’s the right time to do this may be confusing, so here are four signs that you need a new prosthetic sooner rather than later.
Your Dentures Are Broken or Fractured
Just like with natural teeth, your dentures can break if you aren’t careful. Hard foods or dropping them are often the culprits, but if this happens, then this is a dental emergency! Any damage or fracture can leave sharp edges that can harm the soft tissues in your mouth. Instead, call your dentist to get them repaired or replaced entirely.
You Can’t Eat or Speak Very Well
Dentures are more comfortable than ever before as they are molded to fit your mouth. They form a suction that makes them reliable to bite and chew with, but your jaw will change over time. They may sit oddly, making it harder to eat and speak with them.
When this prosthetic doesn’t sit properly, then you’ll likely have trouble enjoying your food fully. If they slip, then your tongue may not be able to help you sound words out properly as well. By getting them relined or replaced if they are older, then you can get back to feeling confident once again.
Your Dentures Feel Very Loose
For some people, their dentures may feel loose or off while wearing them. As was mentioned above, this is often a sign of a poor fit, but you should visit your dentist about this as soon as possible. Relying on adhesives and other ways to keep them stable is seen as a short-term fix. You deserve to have a long-term solution you feel more confident in, whether that’s by adding new material or getting a new set.
You’re Getting Aches from Your Dentures
A new pair of dentures is often followed by an adjustment period with some discomfort. Your mouth will need to get used to them over the next couple of weeks, and then they should feel entirely comfortable! However, if your prosthetic is causing persistent pain, then you may need a new one.
High-quality dentures are designed to put even pressure on your gums. When this doesn’t happen, then specific points may bear more weight, which often means something is wrong with the design itself. Replacing your prosthetic with a better one can help get you back to a full smile that you don’t have to worry about as much.
About the Practice
At United Dental Centers of Hammond, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are happy to help the local community replace their missing teeth with reliable options like dentures. Not only that, but we are here to replace them when prosthetics are worse for wear. If you want to make sure your restoration is in good shape, schedule an appointment or call our office at (219) 933-4900.