Dentures are lifechanging tooth replacement option for those who have experienced significant tooth loss. They help you chew your food, speak clearly, and feel confident with your smile. These prosthetics are customized for a perfect fit, but what if yours keep coming out of place? Patients tend to experience this issue more often with lower dentures than upper ones. Read on to learn why dentures become unstable and what you can do about it.
Why Is My Lower Denture Unstable?
There are a variety of issues that can result in lower dentures becoming unstable. Here are some of the most common ones.
- Flat/Negative Ridge: If you have adequate bone height and width, your lower denture is more likely to remain stationary. This is especially the case if your lower ridge is U-shaped. However, if you have been missing teeth for many years or have a flatter bone, the lower denture has a more difficult time staying in place.
- Inadequate Denture Border Length: The sides of the denture are called “borders.” The borders need to be the proper length and width to create a good deal.
- Lack of Saliva: A major factor in denture retention is saliva. Saliva helps the denture to remain suctioned to the gums. If you don’t have enough saliva, or your saliva is too thick, you could run into trouble.
- Impatience: Wearing dentures takes some time to adjust to. You won’t be an expert immediately, but by taking the time to adapt to them and how they function, you are more likely to have success.
3 Ways to Improve the Stability of Bottom Dentures
- Reline: Relines are needed on occasion so the base of your denture can adapt to your ridge anatomy. The mouth is always changing, so your dentures need to be reshaped every few years to continue to fit well.
- Denture Adhesive: Using a small amount of denture adhesive can help to keep your prosthetic in place. Just remember that with this type of product, more isn’t better. If your dentures aren’t remaining in place with minimal adhesive, you may need a reline.
- Practice: Time and patience are needed when you get dentures. It is important to train the muscles of your face and tongue to get used to the denture. Make sure that you chew on both sides of your mouth evenly to avoid excessive pressure on one side. You might also want to try resting your tongue in a different position in your mouth to avoid dislodging your denture.
If your denture isn’t staying in place like it used to, let your dentist know. Adjustments can be made to help your replacement teeth fit comfortably in your mouth.
About the Practice
At Crownridge Dental, Dr. Christian A. Pham and Dr. Patricia A. Nuñez work together to treat patients in the San Antonio community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about dentures or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (210) 538-7500.