Making the change to dentures can be uncomfortable, which is normal. However, that may be a sign they don’t fit correctly. If you have dentures, it’s important to take care of them, but what if they don’t fit properly? How do you know if they need an adjustment or repair? How are they supposed to feel?
What to first expect
Once you are fitted and receive your dentures, you can finally start wearing them. Your dentures may seem loose, and until you get used to keeping them in place, they may shift while chewing. It can take a few months before you get fully accustomed to your new dentures. However, if you still experience shifting, irritation, or excessive soreness, you should visit your dentist.
How they should fit
The shape and size of your jaw, along with other structures in your mouth, will determine how well dentures fit. A patient with an adequate jaw bone will have dentures that fit better than a patient who has lost a lot of bone.
Following the tooth extraction, the jawbone will begin to diminish over time. The more the bone goes away, the worse a denture will fit, meaning that they may work great when you first get them but can develop problems later on. A few signs to look for are:
- Swollen, painful, and red-colored gums
- Sores in your mouth
- Shifting dentures
- Inability to eat and bite properly
Dental implants can help stabilize dentures and give patients something that feels more like natural teeth.
Although dentures may feel weird and uncomfortable at first, give them time to adjust. They should begin to feel so comfortable that you’ll forget you’re wearing them. If, after a few months, you are still having problems with your dentures, contact your dentist for a proper adjustment.
