Dentures are designed to restore function and confidence, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease. But when they don’t fit properly, they can cause more harm than good. Ill-fitting dentures not only create discomfort but may also lead to serious oral health complications if left unaddressed. If you’ve noticed your dentures shifting, slipping, or causing pain, it’s important to see your dentist before the problem worsens.
1. Mouth Sores and Irritation
Poorly fitting dentures can rub against the gums and soft tissues inside the mouth. This friction often leads to painful sores, inflammation, or even bleeding. While minor irritation may seem manageable at first, repeated rubbing increases the risk of infection and makes it difficult to wear your dentures comfortably.
2. Difficulty Chewing and Digestive Issues
When dentures shift out of place, chewing becomes less effective. This can make it hard to enjoy certain foods and may cause you to avoid nutritious options like fruits, vegetables, or proteins. Improper chewing also affects digestion, as food needs to be broken down thoroughly before entering the stomach. Over time, this can impact overall health and nutrition.
3. Bone Loss in the Jaw
One of the most serious complications of ill-fitting dentures is jawbone resorption. When dentures don’t sit securely, they fail to provide the stimulation the jawbone needs to stay strong. As a result, bone tissue begins to shrink, which can change the shape of your face and make dentures even harder to fit. This cycle of bone loss may also limit future options for more advanced treatments, such as dental implants.
4. Changes in Speech
Dentures that don’t fit correctly can slip or click during conversations, making it difficult to speak clearly. You may find yourself slurring words, struggling with pronunciation, or avoiding social interactions out of embarrassment. Properly fitted dentures, on the other hand, should feel natural and allow you to speak with confidence.
5. Increased Risk of Infections
Gaps and movement caused by loose dentures can trap food particles and bacteria against the gums. This increases the risk of oral infections, gum disease, and even fungal conditions such as denture stomatitis. Left untreated, these infections can spread and create further health complications.
Protecting Your Oral Health
Dentures should never cause pain or interfere with your daily life. If yours are uncomfortable, loose, or difficult to wear, don’t ignore the problem—schedule an appointment with your dentist. Addressing fit issues early helps preserve your oral health and ensures you can eat, speak, and smile with ease.
About the Practice
At the office of Dr. Nelson Y. Howard, DDS, in San Marcos, patients receive customized denture care tailored to their needs. Whether you require adjustments, relining, or a replacement, Dr. Nelson and the team are dedicated to restoring comfort, function, and confidence in your smile.
Call us at (760) 599-6559 or request an appointment online.