Signs Your Dentures Need to Be Replaced
Most people try to avoid tooth loss at all costs because they know that it drastically affects the way the smile looks and functions. Unfortunately, tooth loss is a pretty common oral health problem, and it is especially prevalent among older patients.
Rather than living with the consequences of tooth loss, we can rebuild the smile with strong, attractive dental restorations. Dentures are the most appropriate restoration for severe tooth loss, as they can replace a large set of missing teeth, or even a full arch of missing teeth. Dentures offer years of renewed oral functions, but they will need to be replaced at some point.
Here, Dr. Nicholas Perry Orchard goes over some common signs your dentures need to be replaced at our Corpus Christi, TX dental practice.
Aesthetic Flaws
Dentures are intended to improve the appearance of the smile by providing patients with a restoration that looks like a set of natural, attractive teeth. We design each set of dentures to complement the shape of a person’s mouth and face. In addition, we personalize the size and color of each set of dentures to give patients a smile that they are proud to share.
With regular cleaning, dentures should maintain their attractive appearance for many years. However, dentures will eventually begin to develop aesthetic flaws. Common imperfections that may compromise the appearance of dentures include:
- Stains
- General discoloration
- Visible damage (such as a chip or fracture)
Discomfort
Our dentists carefully plan each set of dentures to make sure they will fit securely in the mouth. This allows patients to bite and chew food properly, and it also assures that oral functions can be performed comfortably.
While there may be a slight adjustment period for patients to get used to how their dentures feel, dentures should not be a source of discomfort or pain. Unfortunately, the shape of the mouth and jaw does change over time, so even a well-fit set of dentures may eventually cause some discomfort.
Examples of discomfort caused by an ill-fitting set of dentures include:
- Pain when chewing
- Tension in the jaw
- Frequent headaches
- Pain in the neck or shoulders
Patients experiencing any type of oral pain or general discomfort that may be associated with dentures should have the mouth examined to determine if it is time to have their dentures replaced.
Compromised Oral Functions
The goal of dentures treatment is to allow patients to enjoy a smile that functions just as though the natural teeth were never lost. Despite stories of dentures easily falling out of the mouth, these restorations can actually provide a very secure fit and comfortable bite. If dentures no longer seem to fit properly or biting, chewing, and speaking have suddenly become more difficult, it is likely that the dentures need to be replaced.
Contact Us
If you have questions about dentures treatment, or are wondering if it is time to have an old set of dentures replaced, Dr. Nicholas Perry Orchard is here to help. Contact us at your earliest convenience to learn more about the restorative dentistry services offered at our dental practice.