The inability to chew effectively with dentures is a common and frustrating experience that signals a mechanical or biological problem. Dentures are intended to restore function, and constant discomfort or difficulty with eating indicates the appliance is not working correctly. This complication requires a professional assessment to prevent further issues. Chewing with stability and comfort is achievable, but it requires addressing the underlying cause of the dysfunction.
Identifying the Root Cause of Chewing Issues
The primary reason for chewing problems relates to continuous changes occurring within the mouth, even while the denture remains static. Over time, the jawbone that once supported natural teeth begins to shrink, a process known as alveolar ridge resorption. This biological change means the foundation supporting the denture is constantly diminishing, causing the appliance to lose its snug fit and become loose or unstable.
Another element is the mechanical fit and alignment of the dentures against each other. If the dentures shift or “rock” during chewing, the biting surfaces (occlusal plane) cannot meet correctly, leading to inefficient food breakdown. Also, the synthetic teeth on the denture can become worn down or flattened over years of use, which reduces their ability to cut and grind food effectively.
When the upper and lower dentures do not align properly (malocclusion), chewing forces are distributed unevenly across the jaw ridge. This uneven pressure makes chewing difficult and accelerates jawbone resorption in areas experiencing excessive force. The constant instability and resulting irritation confirm that the mouth has changed and the prosthesis is outdated.
Immediate Steps for Comfort and Function
While waiting for a professional appointment, several steps can provide temporary comfort and improve basic function. Using a small amount of denture adhesive helps stabilize a loose appliance by creating a temporary seal between the denture base and the gum tissue. This added stability reduces movement that causes friction and sore spots while eating.
Dietary modifications are also helpful, such as temporarily shifting to softer foods that require less chewing force (e.g., cooked vegetables, fish, or eggs). When eating, cut food into small, manageable pieces. Aim to chew simultaneously on both sides of the mouth to distribute pressure evenly and prevent the denture from tipping.
To prevent further irritation, follow these steps:
- Inspect the inside of your mouth daily for red or tender areas, which indicate sore spots caused by pressure.
- Give your gums a break by removing the dentures for at least six to eight hours each day, typically overnight.
- Clean the dentures thoroughly with a non-abrasive cleanser and a soft brush to prevent the accumulation of bacteria.
Professional Treatments for Long-Term Stability
Addressing a chewing problem requires clinical intervention to restore a stable foundation and proper bite mechanics. When the underlying jawbone has changed shape, a reline or rebase procedure can adjust the fit surface of the existing denture to match the new contours of the gum ridge. A reline adds new material to the internal surface, while a rebase replaces the entire pink acrylic base to improve retention and support.
If the denture is severely worn, compromised, or significantly misaligned, a complete denture replacement is often necessary. A new prosthesis ensures the artificial teeth have unworn, sharp chewing surfaces and are correctly positioned to meet in a balanced bite. This replacement restores the mechanical efficiency needed to masticate food properly.
The most substantial long-term solution involves stabilizing the denture with dental implants, which are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures eliminate the movement and instability that characterize conventional appliances, leading to a dramatic increase in biting force. For example, while a conventional lower denture may generate about 63 Newtons of bite force, an implant-supported overdenture can increase this to over 132 Newtons, more than doubling the chewing power.
This increased stability also translates directly into better chewing efficiency; studies show that the number of chewing strokes required to break down food is significantly reduced with implant-supported dentures. By anchoring the prosthesis directly to the bone, implants halt the cycle of bone loss caused by the pressure of an ill-fitting denture resting on the gum tissue.
Protecting Your Health and Jawbone
Chronic chewing dysfunction presents a serious risk to overall health, extending beyond discomfort. Difficulty chewing often causes people to avoid hard-to-masticate but nutrient-dense foods, such as fresh fruits, raw vegetables, and certain proteins. This dietary shift can lead to nutritional deficiencies, especially in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, as reflected in studies showing lower nutrition markers in long-term denture wearers.
The instability of a poorly fitting denture also accelerates the progressive loss of the jawbone (residual ridge resorption). The constant, uneven pressure exerted by the rocking appliance stimulates the bone cells responsible for breakdown, causing the jaw ridge to shrink faster. This rapid bone loss further compromises denture stability, perpetuating the cycle of poor fit and chewing difficulty.
A permanent solution to restore proper chewing function is essential to ensure a varied, healthy diet and to protect the remaining jawbone from accelerated resorption. Addressing the mechanical and biological issues that prevent effective chewing is a necessary step in maintaining oral health and a high quality of life.