Did You Know Poor Fitting Dentures Can Contribute To Health Problems Including A Possible Link To Cancer?
At the Dental and Denture Care Center we see a number of new patients come in for a free consultation who have poor fitting dentures. They often have zero idea that their misaligned dentures are causing problems in their mouth until we show them what’s happening. There are a numberr of problems that dentures can cause if they have a bad fit.
We all know brushing and flossing is the best way the prevent plaque build up, cavities and gum disease. However, did you also realize it helps prevent oral cancer as well? Unfortunately, having ill fitting dentures has been named as one of the highest risk factors to oral cancer. Let’s discuss how misaligned and slipping denture plates cause problems and what you can do about it.
What Is The Link Between Oral Cancer And Poor Fitting Dentures?
Standard dentures have come a long way over the last 20 years. However, even with the best technology, they still can’t mimic the human jawbone with 100% accuracy like dental implants can. In order to stay in place, they will require occasional denture repairs and adjustments.
It is not uncommon for patients to occasionally experience slipping of their dentures. If left untreated, those same dentures can irritate the gums and trap substances like bacteria and tobacco in the mouth. The consistent irritation can cause inflammation, which may lead to the development of cancerous cells.
Five Techniques Used To Prevent Poor Fitting Dentures
Although, having dentures is considered a risk for developing oral cancer, the dentures themselves do not actually cause cancer. Usually, poor oral hygeine habits are the main cause of disease in the mouth.
Make sure to pay attention to these basic and important oral health habits:
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine dental exams, teeth cleanings and denture adjustments.
- Clean your dentures every day.
- Be sure to use proper brushing techniques and floss any natural teeth.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Avoid or eliminate any tobacco products.
How Do I Know If I Have Poor Fitting Dentures?
It can be hard getting used to dentures and many of us may not even realize there is a problem until it is too late. However, if you experience any of the following issues, you should contact our office to schedule an adjustment:
- You can no longer eat certain foods that you once were able to
- Excessively bad breath
- Your dentures move around when you talk, eat or smile
- It hurts to eat
- You have sores in your mouth
- Chronic bad taste in your mouth
How Can Your Dentist Help With Poor Fitting Dentures?
No matter whether you have lost only a few teeth or if you have lost all of them, your dentist is your oral health’s best friend. Not only can they serve to detect any early signs of oral cancer, they can prevent any inflammation through professional cleanings and exams. With your routine checkups, they can adjust your dentures to ensure they provide a tight fit as needed.
Full dentures, partials and implants are all designed to restore your jawline, improve your smile and return your speech to normal. In order to enjoy these benefits, it is critcal to maintain a oral care routine for your dentures just as you would your natural teeth.
Call Us To Adjust Your Poor Fitting Dentures
It can pretty hard getting used to a having a plastic plate in your mouth. There will always be a learning curve. At the Dental and Denture Care Center, we are committed to giving our patients the best smile of their life. We provide everything from general dental care to denture repairs all under one roof. If you believe you may need to have your dentures adjusted, call our office to make an appointment at (352) 848-1050 or contact us through our website here.
