Instability in dentures, where the prosthetic shifts or slips while talking or eating, is a common issue. This lack of security makes chewing difficult, limits food choices, and causes embarrassment. Denture stability depends on the underlying jaw structure and the fit against the soft tissues. Because gum and bone contours change over time, even a perfectly made denture will eventually lose its secure grip, requiring solutions from daily stabilizers to permanent, professional modifications.
Using Adhesives and Stabilizers Effectively
Denture adhesives offer a quick solution for temporary stabilization, working by filling the small gaps between the denture base and the gum tissue to enhance suction and grip. These products come in several forms, including creams, powders, and strips, each requiring a specific application technique for maximum hold. The effectiveness of any adhesive relies on applying it to a denture that is thoroughly cleaned and completely dry.
For cream or paste adhesives, apply three to four small dabs along the ridge contacting the gum tissue, avoiding the edges to prevent oozing. Powder adhesives are applied by lightly sprinkling the product over the moistened fitting surface and shaking off excess. Adhesive strips provide a less messy alternative, requiring trimming, moistening, and firm pressing onto the denture base before insertion.
These products are intended only as a temporary measure to improve the seal and should not be used to compensate for a severely ill-fitting prosthetic. Excessive use of adhesive can signal that the denture requires professional attention. Using more than the recommended amount will not improve the hold and complicates cleaning the residue from the gums and the denture.
When Dentures Need Professional Refitting
The primary reason dentures begin to loosen is a process called bone resorption, which occurs when the jawbone is no longer stimulated by natural tooth roots. Once teeth are lost, the alveolar bone begins to diminish, with the most significant changes often occurring within the first few months. This reduction in the height and width of the jaw ridge causes the underlying foundation of the mouth to change shape, resulting in a mismatch with the rigid denture base.
When this occurs, a dental professional will recommend one of two procedures: relining or rebasing. Denture relining is the more common adjustment, involving the addition of new acrylic material to the underside of the denture to refit it to the current contours of the gums. This procedure is suitable for minor fit changes and discomfort caused by natural tissue shrinkage over time. A reline can often be completed in the dental office, or it may be sent to a lab for a more durable, hard reline.
Denture rebasing is a more comprehensive procedure, necessary when the entire base is compromised due to significant changes or damage. This process involves replacing the entire pink base material while keeping the existing prosthetic teeth. Rebasing is typically performed in a dental laboratory to restore proper fit and stability. Regular dental checkups are important for monitoring the fit, as soft tissues and bone continue to change.
Exploring Implant-Supported Options
For patients seeking a permanent solution to denture instability, implant-supported dentures represent the most advanced option. This method uses surgically placed titanium dental implants that act as artificial tooth roots, providing a secure anchor for the denture. The implants fuse with the jawbone through a biological process called osseointegration, which creates a stable foundation that traditional dentures cannot match.
These prosthetics, often called overdentures, utilize specialized attachments (like ball-and-socket or bar mechanisms) to snap the denture firmly into place. The stability eliminates the need for daily adhesives and improves chewing efficiency. The presence of implants stimulates the jawbone, slowing bone resorption and preserving facial structure. Implant-supported options can be removable for cleaning or permanently fixed, offering greater confidence and comfort than conventional dentures.