Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding gum tissue, restoring function and appearance. Although initially custom-fitted, they commonly become loose or unstable over time. This change is a normal consequence of natural biological processes within the mouth. Temporary solutions offer immediate relief but should always be viewed as a bridge until a professional adjustment can be made.
Why Dentures Become Loose
The primary reason a secure denture loosens is the ongoing structural change of the jawbone after tooth loss. Without stimulation from natural tooth roots, the underlying jaw structure, the alveolar ridge, begins to shrink in a process called resorption. This gradual and progressive bone loss causes the gum line to change shape and volume. Since the rigid denture base no longer conforms precisely to the shrinking tissue, the seal and stability are lost.
Fluctuations in body weight can also alter the shape of the mouth’s soft tissues. Weight loss, in particular, reduces the fat and tissue padding around the face and gums, reducing the foundation for the denture. Additionally, the acrylic material is subject to wear from daily chewing and cleaning. Over an average lifespan of five to seven years, the plastic can thin or the artificial teeth can wear down, shifting the bite alignment and contributing to an unstable fit.
Temporary Solutions Using Adhesives and Liners
When dentures feel loose, over-the-counter adhesives provide immediate, temporary stability until you see a dental professional. These products, including creams, powders, and strips, work by expanding slightly when exposed to saliva, creating a tighter seal. To apply a cream adhesive, start with a clean, dry denture, placing three or four small dots along the ridge and avoiding the edges to prevent oozing. For powder adhesives, lightly sprinkle a thin layer across the moist fitting surface, shake off any excess, and press the denture firmly into place.
Temporary soft reliners, sometimes marketed as cushion grips, offer a longer-lasting home remedy by creating a semi-permanent soft layer inside the denture. These kits involve mixing a powder and liquid to form a pliable material. This material is placed in the denture and molded against the gums, effectively filling gaps caused by tissue shrinkage and mimicking a custom fit that can last for days or weeks. A temporary reline is not a substitute for a professional reline, which uses more durable, medically approved materials.
Adhesives and reliners are temporary aids, and excessive use can be detrimental to long-term health. Some older adhesives contain zinc, and overuse has been linked to copper deficiency and neurological issues. If you need to apply adhesive more than once a day or use large amounts to maintain a grip, the denture requires professional adjustment. Always choose zinc-free adhesive formulas and use the smallest amount needed for a secure fit.
Daily Care Practices to Maintain Fit
Routine maintenance helps preserve the fit and longevity of your dentures. Dentures should be removed and cleaned daily to eliminate plaque, food debris, and bacteria that can cause gum irritation and infection. Use a soft-bristled brush with a non-abrasive denture cleanser or mild soap; regular toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch the acrylic surface.
When not in use, dentures must be stored in a moist environment to prevent the acrylic from drying out and warping. Placing them in clean, cool water or a mild denture-soaking solution overnight is the recommended practice. Avoid using hot water for cleaning or storage, as elevated temperatures can distort the plastic material, permanently altering the denture base shape. Cleaning the gums, tongue, and palate nightly stimulates blood circulation and removes residual adhesive or bacteria.
When to Call Your Dentist
While temporary solutions offer immediate comfort, certain signs indicate the need for prompt professional attention. Persistent soreness, redness, or ulcers on the gums indicate the denture is rubbing unevenly and creating pressure points. If you notice difficulty speaking clearly, such as slurring or whistling, or if chewing food becomes an ongoing challenge, the fit is inadequate.
Needing excessive adhesive or finding that temporary reliners are ineffective means underlying bone loss has progressed, requiring a professional reline or a new appliance. Ignoring a poor fit accelerates jawbone resorption because uneven pressure acts as a destructive force on the remaining ridge. Seeking professional adjustment ensures the appliance is stable, protects oral tissue, and slows the progression of bone loss.