Getting new dentures is a significant step, and ensuring they fit properly is crucial for comfort, speech, and eating. While a dentist meticulously crafts dentures to fit your mouth, sometimes minor adjustments are needed. One common issue is dentures that are too large. This guide will help you identify the signs and understand what to do if you suspect your dentures are too big.
What are the Signs My Dentures Are Too Big?
Several key indicators can point to ill-fitting, oversized dentures. Pay close attention to the following:
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Persistent Soreness or Irritation: This is a major red flag. If your gums, cheeks, or palate remain sore or irritated even after the initial adjustment period, the dentures might be putting excessive pressure on specific areas. The pressure points will be consistently tender and may even bleed.
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Difficulty with Speech: Oversized dentures can significantly impact your speech. You might find yourself slurring words, lisping, or experiencing difficulty enunciating clearly. This is because the extra bulk interferes with the natural movement of your tongue and mouth.
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Problems Eating: Chewing becomes challenging with dentures that are too large. You might struggle to comfortably bite or chew food, leading to discomfort and potentially impacting your nutrition. The dentures might shift around in your mouth while eating, making it even harder.
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Excessive Pressure or Tightness: A feeling of constant pressure or tightness, especially in specific areas, suggests the dentures are simply too large for your mouth's natural contours. This pressure may lead to long-term gum damage.
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Dentures Don't Stay in Place: Ironically, dentures that are too large might actually be less stable than those that fit perfectly. The extra bulk can create instability, causing them to shift or even fall out more frequently.
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Bone Resorption: While not an immediate symptom, improperly fitting dentures that apply too much pressure can accelerate bone resorption (the loss of jawbone). This is a serious long-term consequence of ill-fitting dentures.
Why Are My Dentures Too Big?
Several factors can contribute to ill-fitting dentures:
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Initial Impression Errors: Sometimes, the initial impression taken by the dentist might not be perfectly accurate, leading to dentures that are slightly oversized.
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Changes in Jawbone: Your jawbone can change shape over time, particularly after tooth extraction. This can make previously well-fitting dentures become too large.
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Polymer Shrinkage (Acrylic Dentures): In the case of acrylic dentures, a slight shrinkage of the material during the curing process could also contribute to sizing issues.
What Should I Do If My Dentures Feel Too Big?
Don't try to adjust them yourself! This could cause further damage to your gums and compromise the integrity of the dentures.
Instead, contact your dentist immediately. They can evaluate the fit and make necessary adjustments. This might involve:
- Relining: Adding a new layer of material to the denture's base to improve the fit and reduce pressure points.
- Rebasing: Replacing the entire base of the denture for a more customized fit.
- Remounting: Adjusting the bite and the relationship between the upper and lower dentures.
Ignoring the issue of ill-fitting dentures can lead to discomfort, oral health problems, and even bone loss. Addressing it promptly ensures your comfort and the long-term health of your mouth. Professional dental care is vital for maintaining proper denture fit and oral hygiene.
How Often Should I See My Dentist for Denture Check-ups?
Regular check-ups are critical to prevent problems. Your dentist can monitor changes in your jawbone and ensure the dentures continue to fit properly. A recommended schedule is typically every six months, but your dentist can give you personalized advice.
Can I Get My Dentures Adjusted?
Yes, dentures can be adjusted. Your dentist will assess the situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action, which may include relining, rebasing, or even creating a new set of dentures if the current ones are irreparably flawed.
Are ill-fitting dentures painful?
Yes, ill-fitting dentures can cause significant pain and discomfort, ranging from mild soreness and irritation to intense pressure points and gum damage. The pressure from poorly fitting dentures can also lead to further complications, such as bone loss and difficulty eating.
