Common Problems with Dentures and How to Fix Them

Dentures are a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, helping millions of people regain their smiles and oral function. However, like any dental appliance, dentures can come with challenges that affect comfort, speech, and eating habits. If you’re experiencing issues with your dentures, don’t worry—there are effective solutions available.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable, custom-fitted dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore both aesthetics and functionality. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base with artificial teeth and are typically secured in place by suction, adhesives, or dental implants.

At Newnan Dentistry, we utilize advanced technology such as computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and 3D printing to craft high-quality, precision-fit dentures for optimal comfort and durability.

Types of Dentures and How They Work

Dentures come in two primary forms:

Complete Dentures – Used when all teeth in the upper or lower arch are missing. These rest directly on the gums and are held in place by suction or adhesive.

Partial Dentures – Recommended for individuals missing some but not all teeth. These attach to natural teeth using clasps, restoring function and appearance while preventing remaining teeth from shifting.

Common Denture Problems and Their Solutions

1. Discomfort and Soreness

It’s normal to experience some discomfort when first wearing dentures. However, persistent pain or irritation may indicate a poor fit.
Solution: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe gums. If discomfort persists, consult your dentist for adjustments to improve the fit.

2. Difficulty Speaking

New dentures can temporarily affect speech, making certain words difficult to pronounce.
Solution: Practice speaking slowly and enunciate words clearly. Reading aloud can also help your mouth adjust more quickly.

3. Increased Saliva Production

Your mouth may produce excess saliva as it adjusts to dentures, making speaking and swallowing challenging.
Solution: This issue typically resolves on its own, but staying hydrated and swallowing more frequently can help manage saliva flow.

4. Eating Challenges

Chewing may feel awkward when adjusting to new dentures, and certain foods can be difficult to eat.
Solution: Start with soft foods and cut them into small pieces. Avoid sticky or hard foods like nuts and seeds that can get trapped beneath dentures. Chew evenly on both sides to stabilize them.

5. Denture Slippage

Lower dentures are especially prone to movement while talking, eating, or laughing.
Solution: A denture adhesive can help improve stability. If slippage continues, a professional adjustment may be necessary.

6. Mouth Infections

Poorly fitted or unclean dentures can lead to conditions such as stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth) or oral thrush (a fungal infection).
Solution: Maintain proper denture hygiene by cleaning them daily, removing them at night, and scheduling regular dental checkups.

Alternative Tooth Replacement Options

If you’re struggling with dentures and seeking a more stable solution, Newnan Denture offers alternative treatments, including:

Dental Bridges – A fixed option that replaces missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent natural teeth.

Dental Implants – Titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone to provide a long-lasting, secure foundation for replacement teeth.

All-on-4 Dental Implants – A revolutionary solution where a full arch of teeth is secured to four strategically placed implants, offering superior stability and function.

Find the Right Solution for You

If you’re experiencing ongoing denture discomfort or dissatisfaction, Newnan Dentistry is here to help. Our team can assess your situation and recommend the best treatment options for a comfortable, confident smile.