Causes and Solutions for Fixing Loose Dentures

Why Do Dentures Become Loose?

Loose or ill-fitting dentures can cause severe discomfort and inconvenience. Whether you have been wearing dentures for many years or are new to them, it is crucial to understand how to manage the problem effectively to maintain optimal oral health and a good quality of life.

Before delving into the best practices of how to fix loose or ill-fitted dentures, it is vital to understand why they become loose in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Bone Resorption

Bone resorption is one of the most prevalent causes behind the loosening of dentures. It usually starts with missing teeth. When you lose your teeth, they no longer provide the required stimulation for the jawbone to stay dense and strong.

Gradually, the denture’s excess pressure along the ridge of the gum and the lack of stimulation cause the bone to weaken and become thin. Eventually, the jawbone starts to shrink, causing the shape of the mouth to change.

As a result, the denture that was initially made to fit your mouth’s original shape will become too big or loose, causing it to slip while talking or eating. In other instances, it can also develop painful sores on your gums.

Oral Tissue Adaptation

If you are new to prosthetic teeth, expect them to become ill-fitting after some time. This is due to the natural healing process your dental tissues go through after your remaining natural teeth have been extracted.

It is normal for the tissues to be inflamed as part of the healing process. If the dentist inserted a denture immediately after tooth extraction, you would experience a snug and secure fit.

However, as the tissues begin to recede and the inflammation subsides, you will notice your denture does not fit as perfectly as it initially did. Most dentists inform patients about this inevitability, which is why they pre-book an adjustment appointment shortly after you receive your dentures.

Normal Wear and Tear

Dentures are likely to become worn out due to daily usage. The materials used in dentures are durable but still susceptible to damage over time. As a result, normal wear and tear can affect the fit.

Weight Loss

If you have lost significant weight, your stomach, waistline, and hips are not the only parts of your body that shrink. A considerable loss of weight can also result in structural changes in the mouth, causing your denture to become loose.

Your gums can shrink due to significant weight loss. Any weight loss over 30 pounds typically calls for a denture modification. However, even losing as little as 10 pounds can cause your prosthetic teeth to become loose.

If you plan to lose a considerable amount of weight, visit your dentist. They will help you plan accordingly, allowing you to take a proactive stance to prevent wearing loose, ill-fitting dentures for an extended period.

Poor Fit Initially

Sometimes the dentist might not insert the dentures properly from the start, causing them to become loose almost instantly. It is vital to get denture fitting done by a qualified and experienced dental professional.

Most Effective Solutions for Loose Dentures

If your dentures start feeling loose, it is time to consult your dentist and get them fixed. There are multiple solutions available, which we will explain in this guide.

Your dentist can modify your prosthetic teeth to adjust perfectly in your mouth. However, if bone resorption happens quickly, you might need to visit your dentist for adjustments more frequently.

Here are some of the most effective ways to fix loose dentures:

Denture Adhesives

One of the fastest ways to fix loose dentures is to use a strong adhesive. If you cannot visit your dentist immediately, you can use a robust adhesive to hold the denture in place and prevent it from sliding around your mouth.

There are different kinds of dental adhesives available, such as powders, creams, and adhesive pads. You can try out different brands to find a reliable and secure option.

Ensure the adhesive does not contain zinc, as an excess of zinc can cause health concerns, especially if you consume a diet rich in zinc.

Note: Even though they will enhance the stability, adhesives for dentures do not serve as a permanent solution. Your prosthetic teeth are designed specifically for your mouth, meaning they should fit properly without using any adhesive. Therefore, denture adhesives only provide temporary relief from ill-fitted or loose dentures.

Denture Relining

If new denture adhesives do not provide the required stability, a denture reline is your next best bet. Denture relining is a process where your dentist adds material to the denture’s internal surface for a better fit.

Soft reline: This uses a soft liquid material, ideal for individuals with sensitive gums. The liquid materials your dentist uses to layer the inner surface create a new soft cushioning for your gums, adding back security to the denture.

Hard reline: This offers a more resilient solution, with the dentist adding a layer of hard acrylic to the base of the denture.

Dental Implants

When other options are exhausted, or you prefer a more permanent solution, dental implants provide long-lasting security.

These removable dentures are far more secure as they are anchored to your jawbone with dental implants.

Dental implants provide a permanent solution to loose, ill-fitting dentures. They act as anchors, boosting functionality and offering a more secure fit.

Suffice it to say, dental implants serve as an excellent alternative to dentures because they consist of titanium posts that are attached to your jawbone, allowing your denture to remain sturdy and intact.

Moreover, their ability to act like tooth roots enables them to stimulate bone growth rather than reduce bone density, as can occur with dentures.

Sometimes, you only require two dental implants to support your existing denture. Though costly, most people prefer dental implants because of their permanence and high comfort.

Additionally, implants provide immense stability and eliminate the need for dental adhesives or pastes. Most people rarely experience any denture slips when two or more dental implants secure them. Here are some reasons why dental implants are a superior option:

Improved Stability and Comfort

Dental implants offer a secure and stable base for dentures because they are fastened to the jawbone, unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums. As a result, implants prevent movement or slipping.

This superior stability allows you to experience greater comfort and confidently engage in routine activities such as talking or eating.

Preserves Jawbone Health

Dental implants stimulate the jawbone preventing the bone loss typically occurs with missing teeth. This helps maintain your face structure and ensure your dentures stay secure.

Long-Term Cost Effectiveness

Even though the initial cost of dental implants may be higher, they are a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

The need to frequently replace adhesives and modify traditional dentures can result in significant costs over time.

However, dental implants provide a more lasting and durable solution, saving you substantial money in the future.

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