For generations, dentures have been the go-to solution for replacing missing teeth. They have allowed countless patients to enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling just like they did before tooth loss. And even though technology has come a long way since George Washington’s famous wooden teeth, dentures aren’t built to last forever. In most cases, they should be replaced every seven to ten years. Here are four telltale signs that it’s time for a new set of dentures in Moses Lake.
1. Your Dentures Are Loose or Falling Out
A well-fitting denture creates natural friction against your gums, allowing it to stay in place while talking and chewing. If your dentures are shifting around or even falling out of your mouth, then it may be time to get them replaced, or at least adjusted. Until you see your dentist, you can stabilize the denture with adhesive, but this is only a temporary fix.
2. It’s Hard for You to Speak Clearly
Difficulty speaking is usually related to a denture being too loose. You may notice that you start slurring your words or that your speech sounds “slushy.” If this is the case, your dentures most likely need to be adjusted or replaced.
3. Your Gums Are Sore
If your dentures fit properly and are in good condition, they should never cause any discomfort. They should sit snugly atop your gum tissue. Contact your dentist in Moses Lake if you experience pain when biting or chewing. Also, give them a call if you notice any sores, lesions, or other problems with your gums.
4. Your Dentures Are Damaged
If one or more of your prosthetic teeth have become chipped or cracked, or even come loose, that’s a surefire sign that they need to be fixed. Otherwise, they won’t do a sufficient job of helping you chew your food. As a result, you may not properly absorb all of the nutrients from the foods you eat.
Do any of these signs sound familiar to you? If so, then it would behoove you to call your dentist. Once they take a look at your mouth and your dentures, they can decide the next course of action to get your smile back on the right track!
About the Author
At Moses Lake Family Dentistry, Dr. Craig R. Harder has provided top-notch dental care for 20+ years. Since graduating from Creighton University’s dental school, Dr. Harder has completed hundreds of hours in continuing education courses with a focus on esthetics and minor orthodontics. If you suspect your dentures need to be replaced, visit his website or call his office at (509)765-4351.