If you’ve been wearing dentures in
Lincoln for years or even decades, you are probably aware of the fact that
over time, your custom-made prosthetics don’t seem to fit quite as well as they
once did. While this reality is frustrating, especially since dentures are not
a cheap investment, it is one that most denture-wearers experience. So, why is
it that dentures stop fitting properly? What can be done about it? Read on to
find out how you can restore your missing teeth and feel better about your
smile.
Changes That Cause Dentures to No Longer Fit Well
If you were to compare what your oral cavity and facial structure
looked like when you received dentures to what it looks like today, you might
be surprised to see that many changes have occurred. The aging process not only
alters your facial appearance but also your gums, which is a leading factor as
to why your dentures may no longer fit like they once did.
As you age, your gum ridges can begin to shrink, causing
your dentures to become loose. You may also notice that your jawbone can diminish,
leading to improper alignment between your upper and lower jaws. When wearing
dentures, you will find that oral sores will begin to develop as a result. This
can make it hard on your digestive system, as it will become much harder to
chew properly when your dentures do not fit correctly.
How Can You Fix an Ill-Fitting Denture?
Fortunately, there are a few ways you can find relief from
an ill-fitting denture. If you notice that your prosthetics are worn and no
longer fit, you can ask your dentist about replacing your old set for a new
one.
However, for individuals who would prefer a more stable and
permanent solution, free from the worries of slippage, relining, and replacing,
dental implants in Lincoln are a superior alternative. Even for those who are
missing all their teeth, an implant-retained denture can provide greater functionality
and last decades longer than traditional dentures.
While your dentist will need to examine your smile to
determine if you are a qualified candidate or not, those who are eligible for
dental implants can expect to receive between 4 and 6 implants that are
surgically placed into the jawbone. This will create a solid foundation for the
custom-made restorations that will exist on top. After spending between 3-6
months healing at home, you will return to your dentist’s office to have your custom
denture put into place.
No matter which method of treatment you choose, you can
trust that your dentist in Lincoln has your best interest in mind. Whether it
is replacing your old dentures with new ones or making the switch to dental implants,
you’ll soon be on your way to a healthier, happier, pain-free smile.
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Reed earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska in 1986, and her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from UNCM College of Dentistry in 1991. She also earned a certificate of specialization in prosthodontics in 1993. Dr. Reed and her team at Smile Specialties enjoy helping all types of patients achieve a fully restored smile. Offering tried and true solutions that replace missing teeth, many of her patients have found great success with dentures and dental implants, and Dr. Reed is an expert at helping them move seamlessly through the adjustment phase of treatment. To find out how we can help you, visit our website or call (402) 488-5007.
