Teeth help you communicate effectively and enjoy your daily meals, so if your lower denture keeps slipping out of place, you might be feeling a tad frustrated. To put a cherry on top of this uncomfortable ice cream, your denture was customized. It’s supposed to fit you’re your mouth and gums exactly, isn’t it? How is it coming loose?
There could be a couple of reasons why you’re experiencing this difficulty. Fortunately, solving the problem is usually rather simple.
You Might Still Be Adjusting
Dentures are carefully crafted to feel as much like natural teeth as possible. That said, they probably still feel different than what you’re used to. Holding a lower denture in your mouth involves oral muscles you didn’t really need to exert with natural teeth. It might take some time for you to adjust to how they fit, but by the 30-day mark, you should start to get the hang of it!
In the meantime, denture adhesives can give you a firmer hold. Just be careful not to use them too frequently. While they’re designed to be safe for your mouth, many denture adhesives contain zinc and applying them more than two to three times a week could lead to zinc overdose.
Your Oral Ridge is A Bit Flat
For the most part, your dentures rest on top of your gums. But your gums are basically made up of soft tissue; it’s your jawbone and oral ridge that give them structure. If your bone mass is lacking, your lower arch may be too flat to properly support a denture.
In this case, your dentist may be able to reline your denture or add to your jawbone mass with a bone graft treatment. Alternatively, you can ask about supporting your denture with dental implants – implant dentures are often praised for their superior stability.
Your Denture Needs Relined
Over time, the shape of your oral structure changes – regardless of your age! So while your dentures were initially designed to your measurements, it’s possible you’ll need a different fit months or years later. Schedule an appointment with your dentist, and they can perform a “reline.” Basically, they’ll adjust your denture so that it fits more snuggly and is more secure.
It’s no good to have a lower denture that keeps slipping out of place. If you’re struggling to talk and eat normally because of your prosthetic, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They’ll gladly help you master your dentures!
About the Author
Dr. Bo Tran earned his dental degree from the Midwestern University Glendale Campus, but before becoming a dentist, he actually worked in a dental lab. Because of his unique experience, he can customize dental restorations and cosmetics in greater detail than most other practices. If your lower denture isn’t staying in place, Dr. Tran will get to the bottom of the issue and make sure your needs are addressed. To contact his office, call 602-944-7199.