Our Algoma Dentists Break Down the Risks and Complications of Dentures
Dentures remain one of the most common restorative dentistry solutions for replacing missing teeth. They help people regain the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. However, wearing dentures also comes with certain risks and complications that every denture wearer should understand. Issues such as gum irritation, mouth infections, difficulty eating, and even bone loss can occur if dentures do not fit properly or if proper denture care is neglected.
At Algoma Family Dentistry, our dental team is here to help you avoid these problems so you can maintain good oral health and enjoy your smile for years to come.
Call us today at (920) 487-2733 to schedule a consultation with a dentist near you in Algoma, WI. We proudly serve patients in Algoma, Bruemmerville, Forestville, Alaska, and the surrounding Green Bay communities.
Common Denture Risks and Complications
Gum Irritation & Swollen Gums
Ill-fitting dentures that don’t fit properly can rub against the gum tissue, leading to soreness, redness, or swollen gums. This gum irritation is one of the most common complications of dentures and can make wearing dentures uncomfortable.
Mouth Infections
Without proper denture care, dentures can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to fungal infections such as denture stomatitis—a common fungal infection in denture wearers. Poor dental hygiene can also increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Dry Mouth
Some denture wearers experience dry mouth, especially if the dentures rub against salivary glands. Dry mouth can make it harder to keep dentures clean, increase bacteria growth, and contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
Difficulty Speaking and Eating
It may take time to adjust to eating with dentures and learning to speak properly with them. For some, difficulty speaking and eating may persist, especially if the dentures shift or become loose.
Changes in Taste
Because dentures can cover taste buds on the roof of the mouth, some patients notice changes in taste. Others may notice a metallic taste caused by the denture materials.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
When dentures are not cleaned daily, bacteria can accumulate, leading to bad breath. Using a denture cleaner and practicing good oral hygiene helps prevent this issue.
Bone Loss & Jaw Changes
Missing teeth can cause the jawbones to shrink over time, which may cause dentures to loosen and shift. This bone loss can affect how dentures fit, contribute to denture problems, and even cause a sunken or aged look in the face.
Gum Disease & Poor Hygiene Risks
Food particles trapped under dentures can irritate gum tissue, leading to gum disease. Smoking, poor denture care, and poor dental hygiene all increase the risk of these complications.
How to Prevent Denture Complications
There are a few things you can do to prevent denture problems, including:
- Practice proper denture care: Clean your dentures daily with a denture cleaner and rinse after meals.
- See your dentist regularly: Regular checkups allow your dentist to adjust dentures and monitor gum health.
- Don’t wear dentures overnight: Give your gums a chance to rest.
- Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet helps keep your gums and jawbones healthy.
- Report problems early: If your dentures don’t fit properly, cause irritation, or shift, contact your dentist right away.
Call our dental clinic in Algoma today at (920) 487-2733 to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing dentures 24/7 can cause gum irritation, dry mouth, and even mouth infections. Your gums need time to rest, so it’s important to remove dentures at night. Constant wear may also speed up bone loss in the jawbones.
The best way to prevent gum disease and denture complications is to clean your dentures daily, brush your gums and tongue, and see your dentist regularly. Proper denture care and good oral health habits make a big difference.
Yes, if you still have natural teeth with partial dentures, poor dental hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Cleaning both your natural teeth and your dentures daily is essential.
Dentures that don’t fit properly may shift during eating or speaking. This could be due to natural changes in your gums or jawbones over time. A dentist in Algoma can reline or adjust your dentures to improve the fit.
Learn More About Dentures Near You in Algoma, WI
While dentures provide an effective solution for replacing missing teeth, it’s important to understand the risks and complications of dentures and how to prevent them. With proper care, regular dental checkups, and the right fit, dentures can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
If you’re experiencing denture problems such as gum irritation, poor fit, or mouth infections, contact Dr. Fama at Algoma Family Dentistry today at (920) 487-2733. Our dental office near you proudly serves patients in Algoma, Bruemmerville, Forestville, Alaska, and the surrounding Green Bay communities with personalized denture care and restorative dentistry solutions.