You recently received your customized dentures, and you’re thrilled to have a smile that now functions normally. You can eat, speak, and smile with greater ease, and you’re now living your best life. However, over time, you discover that your dentures are no longer fitting as they should, causing them to cause problems with your ability to perform normal daily tasks. In fact, the situation is so bad that you wonder if it could be more serious than you believe it to be. Can ill-fitting dentures be life-threatening? Read on to find out when you should seek help.
What Causes Dentures to No Longer Fit Properly?
The most common reason your dentures probably no longer fit correctly is that you are experiencing bone resorption. This occurs when there is nothing within the gum tissue to stimulate the jawbone when biting down or chewing. Because there is no longer a tooth root to perform this task, the bone will slowly deteriorate over time.
Also, facial trauma and changes in your facial shape can cause your dentures to fit poorly, resulting in gum inflammation, jaw pain, frequent headaches, an uneven bite, bacterial infections inside the mouth, and limited jaw mobility.
Can a Change in Their Fit Lead to Life-Threatening Complications?
It may be difficult to find the connection between ill-fitting dentures and the possibility of a life-threatening situation; however, researchers have discovered that the risk of oral cancer significantly increases.
A simple theory shared in the 1980s stated that ill-fitting dentures trap dangerous carcinogens between the prosthetics and a person’s gums, thus increasing the potential risk of cancer. However, most studies at that time found no evidence of this claim.
But according to a new meta-analysis that collected data from various studies, researchers discovered a minor link between general denture wear and oral cancer. But the real issue was found in those who wore ill-fitting dentures. It is believed that this demographic saw a 290% increase in the risk for cancer.
What Should You Do if Your Dentures No Longer Fit Well?
If you are faced with the reality that your dentures no longer fit the way they should, you should see your dentist right away. They can examine the prosthetics and determine if realignment is necessary or if a new denture should be created.
In many cases, the latter is the chosen course of action, but many patients are now turning to alternative tooth replacement solutions as opposed to moving forward with replacement dentures. These often include dental implants.
Continuing to move through life with ill-fitting dentures is not a good idea. Getting them fixed or replaced will ensure that your overall health is not negatively impacted in the years to come.
About the Author
If you’re looking to take back your oral health, Dr. Douglas Baldwin and the team at Foundation Dental Solutions can help. Providing safe and effective solutions for tooth loss, patients with dentures can expect top-quality care from beginning to end. Contact us at (817) 478-4300 to let us help you enjoy your smile for longer.