Dentures are among the most popular dental treatment alternatives for individuals with more than one missing tooth. Dentures provide you with a whiter, brighter smile and may enhance the contour of your face. These restorative appliances can also help you enjoy your beloved foods again, which enables you to lead a healthier and happier life.
However, as with most dental devices, dentures Bala Cynwyd do not last forever. If you have had your current dentures for some time, you might wonder if it is time to consider a replacement. Here are some of the signs to watch out for.
1. Loose dentures
One telltale sign that your dentures require replacement or adjustment is a loose fit. When initially receiving your set of dentures, these appliances should fit snugly in your mouth. However, if the dentures begin feeling loose, especially if you have had them for several years, it may be time to get new ones.
2. Damaged Dentures
Another sign that you want dentures is noticeable damage. If you have dropped your dentures or bite on hard food when wearing them, you might have cracked or chipped a tooth. Nobody appreciates cracked dentures, so you should see a dentist for a replacement or repair.
Although you probably will not experience the discomfort of the chipped tooth, you may experience discomfort from its sharp edge. Besides, dentures may aggravate the insides of your mouth near the tooth as you eat and talk.
3. Denture Discoloration
You and your dentist select dentures that match the color of your other teeth. Unfortunately, as with natural teeth, dentures may experience discoloration, even with proper cleaning. If the hue of your dentures begins changing, it might make you feel self-conscious about your smile; thus, requiring a replacement.
4. Difficulty Chewing
One key reason persons consider dentures is to restore normal eating habits. Dentures allow you to consume the foods you like, which enables diet diversification. When you first get your dentures, eating is pretty different than with natural teeth. However, with time, eating with dentures becomes normal.
Unfortunately, your dentures wear and tear, so you might feel discomfort chewing. Even slight misalignments can cause problems with your bite and chew. In such cases, you should consult your dentist about a replacement.
5. Gum Irritation and Pressure Sores
Your dentures make continuous contact with the gums. Gums have sensitive tissues; thus, a correct fit is vital to ensure the dentures feel comfortable in the mouth. However, if your dentures do not fit correctly, you might begin experiencing pressure sores and gum irritation.
The uncomfortable experiences are the outcomes of your dentures shifting and pressing against specific areas of the gums more than others. Your dentures should distribute pressure across the entire gum. For this reason, if some gum areas receive added pressure, they might become sore to the touch, making dentures unpleasant.
If you have lost more than one tooth in one or both arches, dentures are a convenient solution to restore your smile. Dentures have undergone numerous improvements over the years to improve their function and fit. While these appliances are more durable than ever, dentures will eventually require replacement.
You do not need to live with the challenges of damaged or slipping dentures. Your dentist can reinstate a functional, beautiful smile. Talk to your dental specialist about your concerns to determine if you require a replacement or repair.