Dentures are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth, designed to fit precisely over the gums and jawbone. While initially fitted, changes in oral structures can occur over time, leading to a sensation that they are too large. This can disrupt daily life and cause discomfort, but it is often an addressable issue.
Recognizing the Problem: Signs and Symptoms
Dentures that are too big often cause noticeable signs and uncomfortable symptoms. A common indicator is a feeling of looseness or shifting within the mouth, making dentures move unexpectedly during speech or eating.
This instability can lead to difficulty speaking clearly, sometimes causing muffled sounds or a lisp. Challenges with chewing or biting food are also common, as the dentures may not provide adequate stability.
Irritation, sore spots, or ulcers on the gums and oral tissues are common consequences of dentures rubbing against sensitive areas. Some individuals may experience increased saliva production or a persistent feeling of fullness in the mouth due to the altered fit.
Changes in facial appearance, such as pushed-out lips or a changed profile, can also signal that dentures are no longer fitting correctly. Clicking or whistling sounds during speech or eating may occur as the dentures shift.
Why Dentures Feel Too Big: Underlying Causes
Several factors contribute to dentures feeling too big, even if they initially fit well. A primary reason is alveolar bone resorption, the natural shrinkage of the jawbone over time following tooth extraction.
When teeth are lost, the jawbone no longer receives the stimulation it needs to maintain its density. This leads to a gradual reduction in bone volume and a change in the oral structure that supports the denture. This alters the contours of the gums and jaw, making the custom-fitted denture feel loose and oversized.
Significant weight fluctuations can also impact denture fit, as substantial weight loss may change facial structure and the amount of soft tissue supporting the dentures. Certain health conditions or medications can affect oral tissues or bone density, further influencing how dentures fit.
New dentures might also feel oversized from the start if the initial impression taken for their fabrication was not entirely accurate. General wear and tear of the denture material can also affect stability and perceived fit over time.
Addressing the Issue: Solutions and Professional Care
When dentures feel too big, consulting a dental professional is the first step, as self-adjustment is not advised and can damage the prosthetics. A dentist or prosthodontist can evaluate the fit and determine the appropriate course of action.
One common procedure is denture relining, which involves adding new material to the tissue-fitting surface of the denture base to improve its adaptation to the gum contours. This can be done with soft or hard relining materials, depending on the patient’s needs and the condition of their gums.
Denture adjustment involves minor modifications a dentist can make, such as reshaping the acrylic base or refining clasps to alleviate pressure points and enhance comfort. If a reline or adjustment is insufficient due to significant changes in oral structure or extensive wear, new dentures might be necessary to achieve a proper fit.
For enhanced stability and comfort, implant-supported dentures offer an advanced solution. The prosthetics are securely anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. These implants provide stimulation to the jawbone, helping to prevent further bone loss and improving chewing efficiency.
As a temporary measure until professional care can be sought, denture adhesives can help hold loose dentures in place. However, these adhesives are not a permanent solution and should not be used to compensate for poorly fitting dentures long-term. Over-reliance on adhesives can mask underlying issues that require professional attention.
Maintaining Denture Fit and Oral Health
Maintaining a good denture fit and overall oral health involves consistent care and regular professional oversight. Routine dental check-ups are important for denture wearers, even without natural teeth, to assess denture fit and monitor oral health. During these visits, a dentist can identify any changes in the jawbone and gums, making adjustments as needed to ensure continued comfort and function.
Proper daily denture cleaning is important to prevent plaque buildup, stains, and oral infections. Dentures should be brushed daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner, avoiding regular toothpaste which can be too harsh.
Removing dentures at night allows the gums and oral tissues to rest, promoting blood circulation and reducing the risk of irritation and infections like denture stomatitis. Soaking dentures overnight in water or a denture-cleansing solution helps keep them moist and clean.
A balanced diet supports overall oral health, which indirectly affects denture stability and the health of the underlying tissues. Users should remain vigilant for any changes in denture fit or comfort and promptly report these to their dentist for timely intervention.