Getting used to dentures will always take a little time and patience. Not only does your mouth need to physically adjust to the device, which will feel quite foreign and bulky at first, but you’ll also need to push through any feelings of discomfort, self-consciousness, or frustration, which can be emotionally taxing. Not to mention the fact that at the start, you may feel confused about how your dentures are meant to fit inside your mouth. You might wonder, is this just an adjustment period, or do my dentures not fit properly? Should I contact my dentist right away, or would that be overreacting? How should dentures fit?
The Ideal Fit for Dentures
Well-fitting dentures are essential to your personal comfort, the dentures’ function, and your overall oral health. How should dentures fit? Use the following characteristics to guide your understanding of your dentures’ fit:
- Your dentures should feel comfortable. This can be a tricky one to discuss because, as we’ve already mentioned, most people will experience some discomfort at the beginning of their denture journey. An adjustment period is inevitable. But generally, your dentures should feel snug and comfortable. If you experience pain or strong irritation, especially because of sharp edges or pressure points, contact your dental team.
- Your dentures should feel stable. Whether you’re talking, eating, or laughing uproariously, your dentures should stay in place. Your lower dentures may feel less stable than your upper dentures because they have less surface area, but they shouldn’t slip around excessively. Keep in mind that your dentures will become loose over time as your gums and bones evolve. To fix this issue, your dentist will reline or rebase your dentures periodically. But a new pair of dentures should feel snug and secure.
- Your dentures should feel balanced. Your bite should feel even, with consistent pressure across all of your teeth when you bite and chew. This should prevent your dentures from rocking or tilting when you talk and eat.
- Your upper dentures should have a strong seal with the roof of your mouth. The suction will help your dentures stay in place throughout the day. The lower dentures should sit comfortably along your gumline with minimal movement. There shouldn’t be any gaps between your dentures and gums. While dental adhesive is not necessary for well-fitting dentures, you may appreciate the extra security it offers. But keep in mind that adhesive is not a remedy for poor-fitting dentures.
Signs Your Dentures Don’t Fit Properly
Are you worried that your dentures don’t fit your mouth properly? If you experience any of the following issues, you may have cause for concern:
- You develop sore spots or ulcers on your gums.
- Your dentures slip around frequently or make clicking sounds.
- You have difficulty chewing or speaking clearly.
- You experience strong pain or discomfort.
- Food frequently gets trapped beneath your dentures.
Contact your dental team with any questions or concerns. It’s also important to schedule regular check-ups to ensure that your dentures fit properly.
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So, how should dentures fit? They should be snug but not painful, with no sharp edges or pressure points. They should also feel balanced and stable, with a strong seal on the top of the mouth. If you’re concerned that your dentures don’t fit properly, contact your dentist for more information. You may be in the midst of an adjustment period, or you may need to have your dentures relined or rebased. Only your dental team can say for sure.
Good luck!
If you’re looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist in or near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Dr. Wilkinson and his team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. Schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!