Common Denture Problems and Solutions

Getting dentures is a major step toward restoring your smile and quality of life. Whether you wear complete dentures or a removable partial denture, it’s normal to experience some bumps along the way. Dentures help with chewing, speaking, and replacing missing teeth—but like anything, they can come with challenges.

If you’re considering or already wearing full and partial dentures in Whitby, ON, it helps to know what problems can come up and how to deal with them. At Brooklin Village Dental Care, we guide patients through every stage of their denture journey—from the first fitting to long-term care.

Understanding Common Denture Issues

Even well-made dentures can take some getting used to. Whether they’re removable or fixed, you may experience some discomfort or functional concerns—especially early on.

Let’s look at the most common denture problems and how to solve them.

Difficulty Eating with Dentures

When you first get dentures, eating may feel awkward or even frustrating. Chewing with false teeth requires practice, especially when tackling tough or sticky foods.

Tips to make eating easier:

• Start with soft foods like eggs, mashed potatoes, or oatmeal
• Cut food into small bites
• Avoid tough meats or chewy bread in the beginning
• Use both sides of your mouth to balance the bite

Over time, you’ll retrain your muscles and eating will become second nature again.

Slipping or Loose Dentures

Loose dentures are a common frustration, especially when laughing, speaking, or eating. A removable partial denture or full denture may shift due to changes in your gum shape or jawbone over time.

Causes of looseness:

• Bone shrinkage (common with aging)
• Improper fit
• Worn-out denture base

Solutions:

• Use denture adhesive as a short-term fix
• Get your denture relined for a better fit
• Consider a fixed partial denture or implant-supported option for more stability

If your denture keeps moving, it’s time to visit your dentist in Whitby for an adjustment.

Gum Irritation and Soreness

New dentures can rub against your gums, causing sore spots. This often happens when dentures don’t fit just right or if you’re wearing them for too many hours without a break.

How to relieve soreness:

• Soak your dentures overnight to provide your gums a rest
• Rinse with warm salt water to decrease inflammation
• Apply a denture-specific numbing gel
• Visit your dentist to check for pressure points or misalignment

Never try to adjust the denture yourself—it can worsen the problem or damage the appliance.

Speaking Challenges with Dentures

Wearing dentures can temporarily affect your speech. Certain sounds, like “s” or “th,” may feel strange at first. This is totally normal and usually gets better with practice.

Quick fixes for clearer speech:

• Read aloud for 10–15 minutes a day
• Repeat tricky words to improve muscle memory
• Speak slowly and deliberately at first

If speech issues persist, it might be due to a poor fit or overly bulky material. Your dental provider can make adjustments to help.

Bad Breath and Hygiene Concerns

Dentures need just as much care as original teeth. When not cleaned properly, they can trap bacteria, leading to bad breath and even infections like denture stomatitis.

Keep your dentures fresh by:

• Brushing them daily with a soft denture brush
• Soaking them overnight in a denture-cleaning solution
• Cleaning your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth
• Avoiding sleeping with dentures unless instructed otherwise

Proper hygiene helps you avoid not just bad breath, but more serious oral health issues as well.

Cracks, Breaks, and Wear in Dentures

Dentures aren’t indestructible. Over time, they may crack, chip, or wear down—especially if dropped or handled carelessly.

Signs your dentures are wearing out:

• Visible cracks or thinning areas
• Stains that won’t come off
• Changes in fit or function

Don’t try DIY fixes like glue or superglue. Bring your denture to your dentist for a safe repair or replacement plan.

The Role of Proper Fit in Comfort

One of the biggest factors in denture comfort is how well they fit. A good fit means fewer sore spots, less movement, better chewing ability, and even improved confidence.

Key signs your denture no longer fits:

• Frequent slipping
• Gum pain or swelling
• Changes in your bite
• Clicking sounds when you talk

Regular check-ins with your dentist help you catch fit issues early and stay ahead of major discomfort.

Solutions for Long-Term Denture Care

Your dentures play a big role in your daily life—so taking care of them is a must.

Long-term care checklist:

• Schedule dental visits every 6–12 months
• Keep them clean and free of buildup
• Store them properly when not in use
• Consider alternatives like implants for added support

If you’re tired of dealing with traditional false teeth, dental implants might offer a more secure and natural-feeling option for missing teeth replacement.

Final Thoughts

Dentures can preserve your smile, your bite, and your confidence—but only if they fit well and are cared for properly.

Whether you’re new to dentures or have worn them for years, the team at Brooklin Village Dental Care is here to help you navigate any issues with ease. With options for full and partial dentures in Whitby, ON, and expert guidance every step of the way, your smile is in good hands.