Our smile is often the first impression we share with the world. For those looking for a tooth replacement solution, getting dentures may be the solution. Comfortable-fitting dentures can enhance a smile, offer comfort, and improve dental function.
If you are experiencing issues with how your dentures fit, Three Rivers Dental Group is here to help. Our Pittsburgh area dental offices provide a variety of denture options for a secure and comfortable fit. Our goal is to assist you in finding the perfect solution for a confident smile. Read on to learn more about our denture options and steps to take to find the perfect fit.
Common Issues Caused by Loose Dentures
Loose dentures are more than just an inconvenience. They can lead to a host of issues, including mouth sores, infections, and difficulty eating or speaking. Our dentists take time with our patients to help them get a comfortable and secure denture fit.
Common denture problems caused by a poor fit include:
- Gum and mouth irritation
- Dentures that move around in the mouth
- Mouth infections
If you are having issues with loose dentures, contact our dental professionals for help. We will schedule a denture care appointment with you to get you back on track with the best fit.
Understanding Dentures
Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth. They provide the convenience of being removable for cleaning and care and are easy to reinsert. We offer two primary options.
Full dentures replace an entire set of teeth. Partial dentures replace a few teeth. Consult with us to determine the best type of dentures to wear based on the number of teeth you need to replace.
Our Comfy Fit Dentures and Partials are comfortable and affordable. Whether you’re getting your first dentures or replacing an existing set, you’ll love the way ours look, fit, function, and feel. They restore confidence and get you smiling again.
4 Steps to a Comfortable Denture Fit
The denture development process may take anywhere from 4-8 months depending on healing to ensure your custom perfect fit. The timeline depends on the type of dentures selected and the patient’s dental needs. During an initial consultation, you will meet with your dentist to discuss your dental needs and the options available. In some cases, dental implants may be recommended.
Following the initial consultation, there will be four steps to take to secure your perfect smile.
- Dental Exam and Preparation: An examination and x-ray will be conducted to determine the best course of action for your dental needs. Before creating impressions, we will perform all required dental procedures, including tooth extraction.
- Impressions and Measurements: To customize a precise fit, our dentists make dental impressions. We will take measurements and a series of impressions of your natural teeth to create a precise model of your mouth.
- Denture Models: The impressions and measurements will be used to create a denture model, crafted to check for color, fit, and bite. We will schedule a “try-in” session and may create a temporary set of dentures. This will allow you to try them out and check that they look and feel right.
- Final Dentures and Adjustments: Once your dentures are made, you’ll need an appointment to fit them. Based on your feedback, we will adjust the final dentures. Additional adjustments after wear are often necessary as you get accustomed to them.
Once your dentures are ready, you’ll receive instructions on how to care for them. We will schedule follow-up appointments to make additional adjustments for a comfortable fit. You may need these appointments over the first few months as your mouth adjusts to the new dentures.
Keep in mind that if you’re receiving immediate dentures you can shorten the timeline. Immediate dentures are usually placed on the same day as tooth extractions. After your gums heal, you will still need to visit your dentist for adjustments and relining.
Innovations for a Secure Denture Fit
Advancements in dental technology have made it possible to enhance a secure fit for dentures. Denture wearers in Pittsburgh looking for a more stable solution may opt for implant-supported dentures. The implant procedure consists of inserting a titanium screw into the jawbone to serve as a permanent base for a crown or bridge.
Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. These implants then attach to the dentures. This technique offers remarkable stability that closely mimics natural teeth, effectively resolving the problem of loose dentures.
Maintaining Your Dentures
Dentures can restore confidence and give you a bright smile. Take care of your dentures and keep them clean. Regular cleaning, proper handling, and periodic dental check-ups are all part of the routine care required for dentures.
Our Pittsburgh dental professionals will provide you with all the information you need to take care of your new smile. Understanding the materials, types, and proper cleaning techniques can make denture maintenance easier and extend the lifespan. Contact our dental team to discuss the best denture style for your specific needs.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Loose Dentures
Need help understanding dentures? Looking to fix loose dentures? We’re here to help.
Why do my bottom dentures come loose when eating?
Bottom dentures tend to come loose when eating for a few reasons:
- Jawbone Resorption: Over time, the jawbone can shrink due to the absence of natural teeth roots, decreasing stability for the dentures.
- Muscle Movement: Your tongue, cheeks, and lip muscles are active while eating. This can dislodge lower dentures more easily than uppers.
- Fit and Suction: Unlike upper dentures, which achieve a natural suction to the roof of the mouth, lower dentures rest on the moveable surface of the gum and bone, making them less stable.
- Chewing Force: During chewing, greater force is applied to the lower dentures. This can cause them to shift, particularly if they are ill-fitting dentures.
- Saliva Production: An increase in saliva while eating can sometimes affect the seal and adhesion of dentures.
Solutions to consider for loose bottom dentures include:
- Denture adhesives: An adhesive can help improve the stability of dentures temporarily.
- Denture relining: This is a process where the underside of the denture is reshaped so it fits better against your gums.
- Professional adjustment: Your dentist can adjust the denture to improve the fit.
- Implant-supported dentures: These can significantly improve stability by anchoring the denture to the jawbone.
It’s important to consult with your dentist if you’re experiencing issues with loose dentures. They can evaluate the fit and recommend a suitable course of action.
Is it normal for dentures to be loose?
It’s not uncommon for dentures to feel loose, especially as your mouth adapts to wearing them. However, dentures should not be consistently loose. Here are a few reasons why dentures may become loose:
- Changes in the Gum and Bone Structure: After tooth loss, the bone and soft tissues in your mouth will naturally shrink and change shape, which can lead to a looser fit of the denture over time.
- Wear and Tear: As dentures get older, they may show signs of wear, which can affect how they fit.
- Improper Fit from the Start: If dentures were not correctly fitted to begin with, they can feel loose from the onset.
- Weight Loss or Gain: Changes in your body weight can affect the shape of your gums and oral tissues, impacting the denture fit.
A certain amount of movement in dentures is expected. However, they should not be excessively loose or cause discomfort, difficulty eating, or mouth sores. Talk to your dentist to choose the best solution for your needs and schedule adjustment appointments as needed. Regular dental visits are key to maintaining good denture fit and function.
Why are my new dentures loose?
New dentures might be loose for a few reasons. It’s essential to determine the underlying issue to correct it.
- Adjustment Period: When you first receive new dentures, your mouth needs time to adjust to them. Your gum tissues may change as they heal, especially if you had extractions recently, which could affect how your dentures fit.
- Immediate Dentures: If you received immediate dentures (placed right after tooth removal), they may become loose as your gums and bones heal and shrink over time, requiring adjustments or relining.
- Muscle Adaptation: Your facial muscles and tongue may displace new dentures before they adapt to holding them in place. Give your mouth some practice and time wearing your new dentures.
If you are experiencing issues with new dentures, please make sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to address any concerns. Communicate with your dentist about any fit issues with new dentures. Your dentist can check your denture fit and may recommend a reline, adjustments, or a remake of the dentures.
Looking for more information on dentures? Get answers to common questions and cleaning tips.
Contact Our Pittsburgh Dental Care Group for New Dentures
Securing a confident smile begins with choosing the right dentist who specializes in denture care. Our Pittsburgh area dental team has a proven track record of success with dentures. We have positive patient testimonials and work with our patients until their dentures fit just right.
Whether you’re considering dentures for the first time or looking to improve your current fit, we are here to help. Contact Three Rivers Dental Group at 1-855-NO FEARS or request an appointment online to learn more about our denture options. Our dental offices are located throughout the Pittsburgh area in Cranberry, Greentree, and Greensburg.