Here are solutions to 3 common issues of the lower denture

Most people find it difficult to adjust to new dentures. Adapting to upper dentures is typically easier because they gain suction over time and adhere properly to the palate due to a larger surface area. On the other hand, lower dentures can present some challenges over time. Therefore, it’s important to address them before they cause dental complications. Here are common issues with lower dentures, along with their causes and potential solutions.

Common problems of lower dentures

Dentures are custom-made to fit the structure of a person’s unique jaw. Achieving the perfect fit may require minor adjustments over a series of appointments with the dentist. Therefore, it is possible to encounter issues with upper and lower dentures during this adjustment period. However, lower dentures tend to cause more problems, with these three being the most common. The reason for these issues generally lies in how the lower jaw functions. While sealing the dentures, leaving sufficient space to the tongue and cheek movement is important. Due to this, the lower dentures are never completely sealed, leading to these problems.

• Dentures become loose while speaking
  Generally, lower dentures are not as stable and retentive as upper dentures. This is because the movements of the cheeks, tongue, and lower jaw while speaking impact the lower dentures.
• Dentures become loose while eating
  Many people experience difficulty wearing bottom dentures, as they do not have the same biting strength as natural teeth. As a result, it becomes difficult to chew hard, solid foods without the dentures shifting out of place.
• Dentures shift when the mouth is opened widely
  Typically, the lower jaw has a flatter ridge than the upper jaw. As a result, the lower denture may not fit as securely. Therefore, when the mouth is opened wide, the dentures move out of place and settle in an incorrect alignment once the mouth is closed.

If any or all of these issues occur frequently, it can quickly lead to persistent pain and discomfort. These problems may also lead to sore spots, ulcers, and gum irritation. Therefore, it is important to be patient and stay aware of these problems so that you can seek advice from a dentist to get a clear solution.

Solutions to fix common issues of lower dentures

Several solutions can be used to manage and correct various issues related to lower dentures. A dentist can help determine the right option to ensure that the dentures do not cause disruption in daily life and become easy to adjust. Here are some of the common solutions to problems with lower dentures.

Using denture adhesive

Denture adhesive creams are useful as they can help with denture retention, especially for the lower jaw. These products are available in the form of paste or strips, and can be obtained after consulting with a dentist. They can guide you on how to use the adhesive, such as removing it before soaking the dentures overnight. The dentist can also inform you of any potential side effects that may arise while using the denture adhesive.

Getting the denture relined

Over time, the bone supporting the denture starts to change shape as there are no teeth to support it, and the body begins to reabsorb the one. As a result, the dentures do not fit properly and require relining several times. This usually happens within the first six months after the dentures have been fixed for the first time. You can get help from a dentist to reline the dentures using the denture reline kits. During the process, make sure to ask for soft reline materials to avoid pain and discomfort.

Maintaining proper oral care

The fit of the dentures, particularly the lower ones, depends on the overall health of the gums and underlying bone. The acids from foods, the formation of plaque, and bacteria can easily cause irritation and inflammation in the areas where the dentures are fixed to the gums. As a result, the fitting of the dentures may get damaged. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain proper oral hygiene by keeping gums and dentures clean regularly. You can use denture brush cleaners for this purpose. In addition, you can also use at-home denture repair kits to address issues in emergencies quickly.

Following proper nutrition

Making healthy nutritional choices that improve gum health can be helpful. Additionally, it is good to avoid hard or sugary foods that can cause damage to the dentures and loosen them sooner than expected.

Practicing speech and chewing exercises

If you’re using dentures for the first time, ask your dentist for speech and chewing exercises to help you adjust to your lower dentures and improve their functionality over time.