Solutions for Common Denture Problems Port St. Lucie, FL
Getting dentures for the first time can be exciting. As with any new undertaking, however, affected individuals must undergo a certain period of adjustment. Solutions for common denture problems usually start with preparation and prevention.
Solutions for common denture problems are available at St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Port St. Lucie and the surrounding area. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to help those with dentures adjust to their new teeth. We offer full-service follow-up care, including ongoing fittings and denture adjustments.
Preventive care is critical, and our focus as the first line of defense against potential problems. Proper preventive care can help prevent many denture-related issues like mouth sores, infection, and thrush. Other common issues that we help troubleshoot can include difficulty eating and speaking with new dentures. Call us today at (772) 242-4124 to make an appointment.
How To Eat While Wearing Dentures
Dentures provide only a fraction of the biting and chewing power compared to healthy natural teeth. With that in mind, eating while wearing dentures takes some practice and adjusting. As the patient practices, it is critical to consider the following:
- Start with soft foods: We do not recommend eating hard or sticky foods when wearing dentures. When first getting dentures, it is good to start with soft foods, such as applesauce and pudding. After getting the hang of eating and swallowing with dentures, it is time to move on to soft foods that require a little chewing, like scrambled eggs.
- Chew on both sides: Taking small bites and chewing equal amounts on both sides of the mouth at the same time helps keep the dentures balanced.
- Check temperatures before eating or drinking: Dentures have an insulating effect on the mouth. Consequently, as explained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, it may be difficult to judge food temperature. As such, patients should use their lips to check food and beverage temperature.
- Be patient: These issues should resolve as one gets used to all the sensations associated with a new set of dentures.
Furthermore, to prevent toothache, cavities, and stained teeth, patients should eat a balanced diet and treat their dentures with the same care they would afford their natural teeth.
“With that in mind, eating while wearing dentures takes some practice and adjusting.”
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.”
How To Travel with Dentures
Traveling with dentures for the first time, especially overnight, can be nerve-racking. An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time. In addition to having practiced the proper denture-care routine at home, the patient should:
- Research the destination’s water quality. If local water is questionable, patients can soak dentures in bottled water for the trip duration. An article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends choosing bottled water that has been treated for Cryptosporidium when traveling.
- Choose an appropriate denture case. A tight-fitting case protects dentures from bumps along the way. This prevents cracks, which could harbor bacteria. Some travel cases for dentures include brushes and mirrors for convenience.
- Consider investing in a second set of dentures. Although not necessary for most people, a set of backup dentures may occasionally save the day. For example, if the denture-wearer is traveling for a meeting or speaking engagement, having a second set of dentures may provide peace of mind. The same goes for a patient on an extended trip.
“An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time.”
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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. When should denture wearers seek treatment when a problem arises?
Q. Are dentures associated with oropharyngeal cancer?
Q. How is eating with dentures?
Q. What is the best way to travel with dentures?
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. 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. What lifestyle changes will people experience after getting dentures?
Q. What is the importance of seeing a dentist for denture repair?
Q. What are the types of denture relining?
Q. How should patients change their eating practices with dentures?
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 St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry. 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.
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Denture Terminology
Call Us Today
Taking the right precautions and actions can combat common denture problems. Our team at St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry can help. Call us at 772-242-4124 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- St Lucie Center for Cosmetic Dentistry was established in 1984.
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- We serve patients from the following cities: Port St. Lucie, River Park, White City, Fort Pierce, Fort Pierce South, St Lucie West, Tradition, Palm City, Jensen Beach, and Stuart
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