Having dentures that become stuck can be an uncomfortable experience. This can disrupt daily activities. Understanding how to safely address this issue is important for your oral health and peace of mind. This article guides you through immediate steps for removal, common reasons why dentures get stuck, and when professional dental care is necessary.
Immediate Steps to Free Your Dentures
When dentures feel stuck, remain calm and avoid forceful pulling, which could harm your gums or the dentures themselves. Begin by swishing warm water around your mouth for about 30 seconds. This helps loosen adhesive bonds and dislodge trapped food particles, making removal easier. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the denture material.
After rinsing, gently massage your gums around the edges of the denture. This action helps break the seal holding the denture in place. For upper dentures, place your index fingers at the back near your cheeks and gently press downwards and inwards to release the suction. For lower dentures, grip them with your thumb and index finger and gently rock them back and forth to break the adhesive seal or suction.
If the denture still does not budge, try using a damp, soft washcloth to gently wipe around the edges to loosen any remaining adhesive. If you have partial dentures with clasps, lift the clasps on both sides simultaneously before gently sliding the denture out.
Common Reasons for Stuck Dentures
Several factors can contribute to dentures becoming stuck, often related to the interaction between the denture, your mouth, and any adhesive used. A frequent cause is the overuse or improper application of denture adhesive. Applying too much adhesive, or not distributing it evenly, can create an excessively strong bond, making removal difficult. Less adhesive is often more effective, and following product instructions is recommended.
Another common reason is dry mouth, which can create a stronger vacuum effect, particularly with upper dentures. A lack of saliva reduces the natural lubrication that helps in denture removal. Food particles can also become trapped underneath the denture, causing it to adhere more firmly or create discomfort.
Changes in the mouth’s anatomy over time can also impact denture fit and lead to them getting stuck. Gum recession or changes in the jawbone structure can alter the snugness of the denture, potentially causing a tighter fit or uneven pressure points.
When to Seek Professional Dental Care
While self-removal techniques can often be effective, professional dental intervention is necessary in some situations. If you experience persistent pain, bleeding, or swelling in your gums or mouth after attempting to remove the dentures, contact your dentist. These symptoms can indicate underlying issues or potential injury.
If you have tried multiple gentle attempts to remove your dentures and they remain stubbornly stuck, seek professional help. Forcing removal can lead to damage to the dentures or your oral tissues. Additionally, if your dentures feel damaged, cracked, or if their fit has significantly changed, a dentist can assess the situation and provide appropriate solutions, such as adjustments, relining, or repair.