Patients who have suffered from loose dentures will tell you that the most obvious sign of a problem with their false teeth is that they no longer feel comfortable wearing them. That may sound like an inexact science, but if you notice a deterioration over time in the fit of your dentures or how comfortable they are, then they chances are you may need some help or treatment to make them fit properly again. Sometimes the problem is very obvious, such as dentures that move about in the mouth while speaking or eating, and other times the symptoms may be more subtle, such as mild discomfort in the gums or the insides of the cheeks.
If your dentures no longer fit you properly, then there is more chance of either the false teeth or even the plate rubbing the inside of your mouth. As a denture wearer, when you start to notice you are developing more sores, ulcers or even small cuts in your mouth, it might be time to get your false teeth checked out. Sometimes dentures can feel a little loose when first fitted, and they can also rub and cause irritation. This is perfectly normal, but if these side-effects continue for more than a few months, it is probably a good idea to return to the dentist who fitted them to check that they are the correct fit for you.
What are the signs to look out for?
One of the more unexpected symptoms of loose fitting dentures, and one that is often blamed on something else other than your teeth, even by medical professionals, is stomach problems. If your dentures do not fitting properly, then one early effect is that you find yourself unable to chew your food properly. Many people whose false teeth have started to become loose find that they suffer from indigestion more often and experience excess gas. Of course, there are countless other reasons why you may be suffering from these kinds of symptoms, but if your doctor is stumped then it might be worth checking with your dentist to see if loose dentures are causing the problems.
Maintenance is essential
Taking good care of your dentures is essential, not just to keep your mouth healthy, but to keep them looking good. One of the most obvious reasons that dentures become loose is when they become damaged. You should take out your false teeth every day to clean them, the plate and your own mouth and if you are going to take part in any activities where they might be damaged, put them somewhere safe. If you lost your teeth in the first place playing rugby, then keeping them in when you play another game is likely to cause problems with the expensive dentures you have bought to cover the gaps in your smile!