Signs It's Time to Refit Your Dentures: Restoring Comfort and Functionality
Dentures play a crucial role in restoring smiles and improving oral function for millions of people worldwide. Whether you have partial or full dentures, ensuring they fit properly is essential for comfort, functionality, and overall oral health. Over time, changes in your mouth's shape and structure can occur, leading to issues with denture fit. But how do you know when it's time to refit your dentures? Let's explore some common signs that indicate it's time for an adjustment.
Looseness or Slipping: One of the most noticeable signs that your dentures no longer fit properly is looseness or slipping. If you find that your dentures move around when eating, speaking, or smiling, it's a clear indication that they need adjustment. Ill-fitting dentures can cause discomfort and even lead to sores or irritation in the mouth.
Difficulty Chewing: Properly fitted dentures should allow you to chew food comfortably and efficiently. If you're experiencing difficulty chewing or find that you're avoiding certain foods because of it, it may be due to poorly fitting dentures. Refitting your dentures can improve your ability to chew and enjoy a varied diet.
Mouth Sores or Irritation: Persistent mouth sores or irritation can occur when dentures rub against the gums or soft tissues of the mouth. This friction is often a result of dentures that no longer fit properly. Refitting your dentures can alleviate pressure points and reduce the risk of developing sores or inflammation.
Changes in Speech: Ill-fitting dentures can affect your ability to speak clearly and confidently. If you notice changes in your speech, such as slurring or mumbling, it could be a sign that your dentures need adjustment. Refitting your dentures can restore proper speech patterns and improve communication skills.
Gum Recession: Changes in the shape and structure of your mouth, such as gum recession, can affect the fit of your dentures over time. If you notice that your dentures no longer sit comfortably against your gums or feel loose, it may be due to changes in your mouth's anatomy. Refitting your dentures can accommodate these changes and provide a snugger fit.
Bone Resorption: Over time, the jawbone may undergo resorption, causing changes in facial structure and the fit of dentures. This natural process can lead to dentures becoming loose or ill-fitting. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor bone resorption and determine when refitting your dentures is necessary to maintain optimal fit and function.
Worn or Damaged Dentures: Daily wear and tear can take a toll on dentures, causing them to become worn, cracked, or damaged over time. While minor adjustments can often address these issues, more significant damage may require refitting or replacement of the dentures altogether.
Persistent Discomfort: If you're experiencing persistent discomfort or pain while wearing your dentures, it's essential to address the issue promptly. Discomfort can indicate that your dentures no longer fit properly and may require adjustment or refitting to alleviate pressure points and improve comfort.
If you're experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, it’s time to book in an appointment with us. Refitting your dentures can restore comfort, functionality, and confidence, allowing you to enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile once again. Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the fit of your dentures and addressing any issues promptly to maintain optimal oral health and quality of life.