Common Denture Problems

Loose Denture

Generally these problems are more common with lower complete dentures or extensive partial dentures due to the difficulty is achieving a suction fit. This problem can be corrected by ensuring a very accurate impression of the supporting gums is made during the fabrication of the denture. This may require a number of appointments to achieve.

Alternatively using dental implants to stabilise the denture and improve retention and stability while eating chewing laughing sneezing etc.

Denture adhesives can provide much needed help in retaining a loose denture if dental implants are not a feasible option. If you are increasing the amount of denture adhesive to achieve the same level of comfort or for extended periods, have your dentures and gums checked by a Prosthodontist.

Lack of tooth visibility

Older dentures can wear or “sink” in the mouth as the underlying gum shrinks over time. The teeth in some dentures are set too far back and too near the gum. This happens many times because if the teeth were set in the ideal position the denture would be more unstable.

This can be corrected by support for the denture being provided by dental implants with either studs or bar snap on connections. These devices, which the loose denture is clipped onto, can significantly improve the stability of the denture and allow denture teeth to be positioned more optimally. This will allow for the more ideal positioning of the teeth without the risk of destabilising the denture as it is snapped on to the implant. This can significantly improve the opportunity to improve lip support, tooth visibility and overall facial height leading to a less collapsed appearance.

Loss of facial height / Loss of lip support

Similar to above.

Discoloured Denture

Incorrect cleaning procedures can lead to discolouration. Soaking denture in Milton will lead to a loss of colour. Do not soak your dentures in bleach. Commercial denture cleansers are widely available [Steredent, etc.], for soaking dentures overnight.

Denture Fractures

Excessive stresses placed on a denture when for example a denture in one jaw is opposed by natural teeth in the opposite jaw, can lead to significant stresses and sometimes denture fractures.

Excessive nighttime grinding can put significant stress on a denture restoration leading to fracture.

Reinforcing the denture base perhaps using a cast metal base and limiting the effects of a tooth grinding habit can reduce the risk of denture fractures. If a denture is too thin it can become brittle. Remaking the denture to a more appropriate bite height can also create the space for the necessary minimum thickness of a denture material to have sufficient strength to avoid fractures.