Solutions for Common Denture Problems Mechanicsburg, PA
Dentures are more comfortable and helpful than ever before. However, there are still some common problems that many denture wearers experience. Proper denture care and diet can help keep the gums and mouth healthy and avoid irritation or infections.
Dentures are available at Agate Dental in Mechanicsburg and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with solutions and tips to correct common denture problems. Call us at (717) 254-4085 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
What to Expect With Dentures
Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes. Denture wearers should expect diet changes and discomfort at first. These appliances are not as efficient at chewing as natural teeth and can cover the palate, which plays an important role in sensing flavors. This causes many denture wearers to gravitate towards more processed foods that are also naturally higher in fat, salt, and sugar. We recommend denture wearers eat a diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
When wearing dentures for the first time, it is normal to experience some soreness and discomfort. The University of Iowa's College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics states that it is not unusual for dentures to be relined or remade within six to eight weeks after tooth extraction. This will occur as the mouth muscles adjust and get used to the appliance. As people get used to their dentures, pain and discomfort will disappear, and they can resume their normal activities comfortably.
“Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes.”
Seeking Treatment When Problems Arise
It is crucial to seek treatment quickly when problems with dentures arise. Common denture problems include gum and mouth irritation, loose dentures, and mouth infections. Simply ensuring that dentures fit correctly can increase comfort and reduce soreness.
If a denture problem is present, contact our team quickly. The dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced. Denture wearers who do not seek treatment for ill-fitting dentures can develop mouth infections such as cheilitis and stomatitis. Seeking medical treatment when the problem first arises can prevent such complications from arising.
“It is crucial to seek treatment quickly when problems with dentures arise.”
Taking Care of Dentures While Traveling
People can still have a great time while traveling with dentures. However, it is important to maintain a regular cleaning routine. Denture wearers should pack a small case with denture care items, such as a covered storage container.
Cleanser creams, gels, and pastes can travel as long as they meet airline size requirements for liquids. It is also important to maintain proper denture care while traveling. People should remove and rinse their dentures after every meal, brush daily, and soak them overnight.
“It is crucial to seek treatment quickly when problems with dentures arise.”
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Eating With Dentures
As foreign devices, dentures insulate the gums from the hot and cold temperature of foods and beverages. Thus, as patients get more accustomed to dentures in their mouth, they may want to avoid foods that are particularly hot and cold. At the very least, they should check the temperature of such foods and beverages with their lips.
It can also be difficult to get accustomed to chewing with dentures. However, many patients find they benefit from cutting up their food into smaller pieces. This puts less stress on their jaws and dentures.
“As foreign devices, dentures insulate the gums from the hot and cold temperature of foods and beverages.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What should people expect when getting dentures?
Q. When should denture wearers seek treatment when a problem arises?
Q. How should people take care of their dentures while traveling?
Q. Are dentures associated with oropharyngeal cancer?
Q. How should I adjust to eating with dentures?
People Also Ask
Q. What is the proper way to take care of my dentures?
Q. Can I fix my dentures myself?
Q. How can I tell if my dentures need to be relined or rebased?
Q. What should I do if my dentures start to feel uncomfortable?
Q. How should new denture wearers change their eating practices?
Q. What is a good overnight cleaning routine?
Checking for Oropharyngeal Cancer
Dentures do not cause oropharyngeal cancer, but dentures that do not fit well or poor oral care while wearing them can. The irritation, inflammation, and infection associated with such issues have been associated with oral cancer. According to one study, while ill-fitting dentures are a risk factor for oral cancer development, there is no link between denture use duration and cancer development.
To limit the risk of oral cancer, people should have their dentures checked. Properly fitting dentures reduce the risk of infection or inflammation. All denture wearers should also take their dentures out every night and clean them well.
“Dentures do not cause oropharyngeal cancer, but dentures that do not fit well or poor oral care while wearing them can.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it easy to chew when wearing dentures?
A. Dentures restore part of a person's chewing capacity compared with having no teeth. However, a denture-wearer will not have the biting force of a person with a complete set of healthy, natural teeth. Chewing with dentures can be mastered with practice.
Q. How can I learn to speak clearly while wearing dentures?
A. Learning to speak clearly with dentures requires practice. It may take a few weeks, but it does get easier. For example, reading aloud is an effective way to practice. Speaking more slowly may also help a patient learn to enunciate while wearing dentures.
Q. What can I eat with dentures?
A. Foods that are not sticky or hard are usually preferred for denture-wearers. It is a good idea to avoid foods with small seeds or hard bits. Foods that have been cut into small pieces are easiest for a person with dentures to eat.
Q. How do I keep my dentures clean?
A. To keep a pair of dentures clean, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least once a day. It also helps to rinse them after eating. Soak them overnight in an appropriate solution to make sure they keep their shape.
Q. Where can I find more solutions for common denture problems?
A. The most reliable source of information about denture care and oral health is a dental professional such as Agate Dental. If a patient experiences a problem with dentures, it may be an indication that it is time to visit the dentist. Always bring up any concerns and issues during an appointment.
Denture Terminology
Call Us Today
Taking the right precautions and actions can combat common denture problems. Our team at Agate Dental can help. Call us at 717-254-4085 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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