Ill-fitting dentures are a common issue for many wearers. This problem arises because the mouth is not a static environment; the underlying jawbone, the alveolar ridge, naturally shrinks over time following tooth loss, a process known as bone resorption. Even perfectly fitted prosthetics eventually lose their snugness as the shape of the gum tissues and bone changes beneath them. A proper fit is necessary for comfort, oral health, and ensuring you can eat and speak effectively.
Recognizing the Signs of an Improper Fit
The body offers several distinct warnings that a denture no longer conforms correctly to the oral tissues. One of the most immediate signs is the development of persistent sore spots, ulcers, or redness on the gums, caused by the appliance rubbing against the soft tissues. This friction indicates excessive movement, which should not occur with a well-fitting denture. You might also notice a distinct clicking or whistling sound when you speak, signaling a loss of the tight seal necessary for stable positioning.
Another clear indicator is a decline in chewing efficiency, especially if the denture slips, tilts, or rocks while eating. An increasing reliance on denture adhesive, or the need to apply it multiple times a day, signals that the fit has deteriorated past the point of minor adjustment.
Temporary Relief Using At-Home Aids
For immediate relief while waiting for a dental appointment, temporary measures can alleviate discomfort and improve stability. Denture adhesives are the most common aid, creating a bond between the denture base and the gum tissue to minimize movement. Apply these products sparingly, using just three to four small dots or thin strips, and ensure the denture is thoroughly cleaned of old residue daily. Overuse of adhesive can create bulk, further distorting the fit.
Some over-the-counter kits offer soft reliners or cushions, which provide a temporary, pliable layer to cushion the gums. While these offer short-term comfort, they do not correct the underlying structural problem causing the looseness. Never attempt to make major adjustments, such as trimming or reshaping the acrylic, as this can permanently damage the prosthetic. Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution can also soothe irritated gum tissue until professional care is available.
Permanent Professional Correction Methods
Professional procedures are designed to restore the precise fit of the denture to the mouth’s current contours. The most common procedure is a reline, which involves adding new acrylic material to the tissue-fitting surface of the existing denture base. A hard reline uses durable, smooth acrylic and is typically completed in a dental laboratory, offering a correction that may last for a couple of years. Soft relines, in contrast, use a flexible, rubbery material, often recommended for patients with sensitive gum tissues, providing temporary cushion and shock absorption.
A more extensive procedure is known as a rebase, which involves replacing the entire pink acrylic base of the denture while preserving the artificial teeth. This is necessary when the base material is cracked, damaged, or structurally weakened, but the teeth are still in good condition. The rebase provides an entirely new foundation for the prosthetic, restoring its strength and fit. If the denture is severely worn, the teeth are broken, or the structural damage is beyond repair, a complete replacement with a new set is the final option.
Long-Term Maintenance to Preserve Fit
Maintaining the fit of your prosthetic requires consistent, preventative care, even after a successful reline or rebase. Regular dental checkups, usually every six months, are necessary to allow a professional to assess the fit and check for developing sore spots or tissue changes. This frequency allows for early detection of bone resorption before the fit significantly deteriorates.
Daily cleaning is important, using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser to prevent the buildup of plaque and calculus. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as its abrasive particles can scratch the acrylic surface and harbor bacteria. Remove the denture for several hours each day, ideally overnight, to allow the underlying gum tissues to rest and recover from continuous pressure.