How to Handle Common Problems with Dentures

 Dentures can significantly improve the quality of life for those who need them, restoring the ability to speak, eat, and smile with confidence. However, like any dental appliance, dentures may sometimes cause issues that can be frustrating or uncomfortable. Understanding common problems with dentures and knowing how to address them can help ensure a comfortable and long-lasting experience. Whether you are new to dentures or have been wearing them for years, this guide will provide you with practical solutions. For professional assistance, consider visiting a trusted Dentist Downtown Ottawa like Constitution Dental for expert care and advice.

1. Soreness and Discomfort

One of the most common issues people face with new dentures is soreness or discomfort. This usually happens as your gums and tissues adjust to the new appliance. If your dentures are not properly fitted, they may rub against the gums, causing sore spots.

Solutions:

• Give it time: It’s normal to experience some discomfort when you first start wearing dentures. Your gums may need a few weeks to adapt. Be patient, but if the discomfort persists, schedule an appointment with your dentist.
• Use a dental adhesive: Applying a small amount of dental adhesive can provide a cushion between your gums and the dentures, reducing friction and easing discomfort.
• Consult your dentist: If the pain doesn’t go away or becomes unbearable, your dentures may need to be adjusted. A professional at Constitution Dental can ensure a proper fit to prevent ongoing issues.

2. Difficulty Eating

Learning to eat with dentures can take time, especially if you are adjusting to a new set. You may experience difficulties with biting, chewing, or even sensing the temperature of food.

Solutions:

• Start slow: Begin by eating soft foods that require minimal chewing, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Gradually introduce harder foods as you become more comfortable.
• Cut food into smaller pieces: This makes it easier to chew and reduces the risk of your dentures slipping out of place.
• Chew evenly: Try to distribute food on both sides of your mouth when chewing to keep your dentures balanced and in place.
• Avoid sticky and tough foods: Foods like caramel, taffy, and tough meats can pull at your dentures, making them more likely to shift or cause discomfort.

3. Speaking Difficulties

Another common issue for new denture wearers is difficulty speaking. You might find that certain words are harder to pronounce or that you lisp when trying to talk. This can be an embarrassing issue, but it’s usually temporary.

Solutions:

• Practice speaking: Reading aloud or talking to yourself in front of a mirror can help you get used to speaking with your dentures. Over time, your muscles will adjust, and you’ll regain your natural speech patterns.
• Repeat troublesome words: Identify which words are causing you the most trouble and practice saying them slowly and clearly. Repetition can help your mouth adjust.
• Seek advice from your dentist: If your speech problems persist, your dentures may need to be adjusted. Consider visiting a Dentist in Downtown Ottawa for guidance and support.

4. Dentures Slipping Out of Place

Dentures may occasionally slip out of place, especially when eating or speaking. This is not only inconvenient but can also be embarrassing. Slippage often occurs when dentures do not fit snugly or if there has been bone loss in the jaw over time.

Solutions:

• Use denture adhesive: A denture adhesive can help keep your dentures in place, preventing them from moving while you eat or talk.
• Adjust your dentures: If your dentures are slipping frequently, visit Constitution Dental for a professional adjustment. Sometimes a minor tweak can make all the difference.
• Consider a reline: Over time, your gums and jawbone may change shape, causing your dentures to fit less securely. Regular relining, where the base of your dentures is reshaped, can help ensure a snug and comfortable fit.

5. Denture-Related Infections

Wearing dentures increases the risk of developing infections, such as denture stomatitis (a fungal infection) or cheilitis (inflammation of the corners of the mouth). These conditions can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort.

Solutions:

• Clean your dentures daily: Proper hygiene is essential. Remove your dentures at night and clean them thoroughly with a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive cleaner. This will help remove food particles and bacteria that could lead to infections.
• Soak your dentures overnight: Soaking your dentures in a cleaning solution overnight can keep them clean and free from bacteria. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for soaking solutions.
• Maintain oral hygiene: Brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth every day to keep your mouth healthy. Regular visits to a Dentist in Downtown Ottawa will also help monitor your oral health.

6. Broken or Damaged Dentures

Dentures can break or crack, particularly if they are dropped or if too much force is applied while eating. Broken dentures can cause significant discomfort and may be challenging to use.

Solutions:

• Handle with care: Be careful when removing, cleaning, or handling your dentures to prevent dropping them. Consider cleaning them over a soft surface or a sink filled with water to reduce the impact if they fall.
• Do not attempt DIY repairs: While it may be tempting to fix broken dentures yourself, this can cause more damage. Instead, take your dentures to Constitution Dental for professional repairs.
• Have a backup pair: If possible, keep a backup pair of dentures so you are not left without any if your primary set is being repaired.

7. Excessive Saliva or Dry Mouth

When you first start wearing dentures, you may notice an increase in saliva production, as your mouth adjusts to having a foreign object. Conversely, some people may experience dry mouth, which can make wearing dentures uncomfortable.

Solutions:

• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help balance saliva production and alleviate dry mouth. If you experience excessive saliva, drink water throughout the day to help manage it.
• Suck on sugar-free candy: If dry mouth is an issue, sucking on sugar-free candy or chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production.
• Consult your dentist: If saliva issues persist, talk to your dentist. Dentures Ottawa professionals, like those at Constitution Dental, can provide solutions to help manage these problems.

8. Difficulty Adjusting to Dentures

It’s common for people to feel discouraged if they find it hard to adjust to new dentures. Feeling a foreign object in the mouth, changes in chewing, and concerns about appearance can all contribute to the adjustment period.

Solutions:

• Give yourself time: It takes time to adjust to dentures, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Give yourself a few weeks to get used to them.
• Seek support: Talk to friends or family members who have dentures, or join a support group where you can share experiences and tips. Knowing that others have gone through the same challenges can make coping easier.
• Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups are essential for ensuring your dentures fit correctly and addressing any issues. The team at Constitution Dental can offer personalized advice and make any necessary adjustments to your dentures.

Conclusion

Handling common problems with dentures can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, these issues can be managed effectively. Maintaining proper hygiene, practicing patience, and seeking help when needed are essential to having a comfortable experience with your dentures. For expert assistance with Dentures Ottawa, consider Constitution Dental in the heart of Dentist Downtown Ottawa. Their experienced team can help ensure your dentures fit properly and comfortably, giving you the confidence to smile, eat, and speak without worry.