Common Problems Caused by Dentures

Dentures and tooth replacements have been around for over 2,000 years. Though they have gone through many improvements and changes, dentures are still a cornerstone of cosmetic dentistry near San Jose. Over the years, dentures have improved with the invention of dental implants and updated materials. However, dentures have been associated with different problems, such as bone loss and mouth infections. Continue reading for a closer look at common problems caused by dentures.

Bone Loss

Though dentures are used to replace missing teeth, they can often lead to further bone loss in the jaw. When the jawbone does not have teeth to connect to it, the bone slowly degrades and disappears. This process is called resorption, and it can soon lead to a misshapen jaw or sunken facial appearance. To prevent this natural process, patients can opt for dental implants, which are fused directly into the jawbone. Implants stabilize the jawbone, and they connect with dentures to create a stable and secure tooth replacement. Patients will have little to no bone loss with implant-supported dentures.

Oral Irritation

Dentures often require adhesives to secure them to the gums; this prevents the dentures from sliding in or out of the mouth. Unfortunately, the best denture adhesives may not last throughout the day, and patients must reapply them. With and without adhesives, dentures can slip and slide along the gums. This movement, even if it is minute, can cause significant irritation to the gums. The gum irritation can cause discomfort, pain, redness, swelling, and even bleeding. To keep dentures secure, patients should consider dental implants that hold the dentures in place permanently, allowing them to function more like the natural teeth.

Mouth Infections

When patients have bacteria and food particles collect under their dentures, they become susceptible to mouth infections. Both cheilitis and stomatitis—infections caused by an overgrowth of yeast—can lead to painful inflammations, redness, and red bumps in and around the mouth. Proper denture care and creating a tight denture seal with dental implants can help prevent these painful infections.