Dentures are remarkable prosthetic appliances that have allowed countless people to replace their lost teeth, and modern models are so incredibly lifelike and comfortable that people wearing them often forget that they are there. However, some patients find that their lower dentures are prone to slipping and sliding about in the mouth, which can cause gum irritation, enamel damage, and oral infections. Here’s a brief guide to why your lower denture may not be staying in place as well as a few tips for keeping your appliance secure.
Why Isn’t My Lower Denture Staying in Place?
Your lower denture may not hold its place securely for a variety of reasons such as:
Bone loss
Tooth loss deprives the jawbone of the exercise it needs to stay healthy and strong and causes it to recede and atrophy. The changing shape of the jaw will eventually disrupt the way a denture fits.
Alignment issues
How well your lower denture holds its place depends largely on how well your natural and artificial teeth come together when your mouth is closed. If the teeth of your lower appliance do not fit properly with the upper arch, the denture may be more prone to shifting.
You’re still getting used to it
Wearing a lower denture involves learning to use muscles in your jaw in ways that you’ve never had to before. If you’ve just received one of these appliances, it will probably take some practice before you’re used to wearing it.
How Can I Keep My Lower Denture in Place?
Luckily, there are a few excellent ways to help your appliance stay put in your mouth. A few of these include:
Practice
If you’re new to wearing dentures, you may need some time to get used to speaking and chewing with them before you can do these tasks easily. To accelerate this adjustment period, try reading a favorite book out loud and repeating any troublesome words.
Denture adhesive
Many patients find that using denture adhesive products like powders, strips, or creams can help them wear their appliances comfortably between professional adjustments.
Reline or adjustment
If your dentures aren’t fitting properly, your dentist may be able to reline or adjust them so you can wear them comfortably again.
Dental implants
Using dental implants to secure your dentures can give you maximum chewing power, prevent bone loss in the jaw, and allow your appliance to last for many more years than traditional dentures.
Traditional dentures can last for seven to ten years before needing replacement if they receive excellent care. If your appliance hasn’t been holding its place in your mouth, consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to ensure that your new teeth fit comfortably.
About the Author
Dr. Salari earned her dental degree at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium in 2003 and completed a residency focusing on TMJ disorders at the Université Lille 2 in France. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Northern Virginia Dental Association, and the American College of Prosthodontists. Her office in Annadale offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. If you need help with a loosely fitting lower denture, contact the office online or dial (703) 763-0800.