Common Issues After Getting Full Dentures: Solutions and Advice

Post-Procedure Issues After Denture Placement

Hello Doctor: My father recently received a complete set of dentures.
The upper jaw has no teeth, while the lower jaw still has 2-3 teeth remaining.
The issue we are facing is that the lower denture is stable due to the remaining teeth, but the upper denture has no points of fixation.
Currently, it is being stabilized by the hard palate, and there are no issues with occlusion.
The only problem arises when he bites down with the front teeth; the sides of the upper denture lift, causing it to dislodge.
However, there is no issue when biting down with the sides of the upper jaw.
As a result, food must be cut into small pieces to fit into his mouth.
I would like to ask if this is normal and if there are any solutions to this problem.
Thank you for your response, Doctor!

A Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/22

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Ating,
Hello! You may need to return to the clinic for occlusal adjustment.
Please take care! Wishing you peace and smoothness in everything!
Sincerely,
Director Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2020/06/22

More Info

After getting full dentures, many patients experience various challenges, especially when it comes to the fit and stability of the dentures. Your father's situation, where the upper denture tends to lift when biting with the front teeth, is a common issue that can arise due to several factors. Let's delve into the possible reasons for this problem and explore potential solutions.

Understanding the Issue
1. Lack of Retention: Full dentures rely on the underlying gum tissue for support and retention. If the upper denture is not fitting snugly against the gums, it can easily lift or dislodge when pressure is applied, such as during biting. This is particularly true for upper dentures, which may not have the same stability as lower dentures that still have some natural teeth for anchoring.

2. Bite Alignment: If the bite is not properly aligned, it can lead to uneven pressure distribution when chewing. This misalignment can cause the denture to lift on one side or the other, leading to discomfort and difficulty in eating.

3. Gum Health: The health of the gums can also affect how well the dentures fit. If the gums are swollen or receding, this can impact the retention of the dentures.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Denture Adjustment: The first step is to return to the dentist for an adjustment. Dentists can modify the denture to improve its fit. This might involve reshaping the edges or adding material to areas that are not making adequate contact with the gums.

2. Denture Adhesives: Using a denture adhesive can provide additional stability and help keep the upper denture in place. There are various types of adhesives available, including creams, powders, and strips. It's essential to follow the instructions for use to ensure the best results.

3. Re-evaluation of Denture Design: If adjustments and adhesives do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to consider a re-evaluation of the denture design. Sometimes, a different type of denture, such as implant-supported dentures, may be recommended. These dentures are anchored to dental implants, providing a more secure fit and reducing the risk of dislodgement.

4. Regular Check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are crucial after getting dentures. The mouth can change over time due to bone resorption and gum changes, which can affect the fit of the dentures. Regular visits allow the dentist to monitor these changes and make necessary adjustments.

5. Dietary Modifications: In the meantime, it may be helpful to modify the diet to accommodate the current situation. Cutting food into smaller pieces, as you mentioned, can make eating easier and reduce the risk of the denture dislodging.

6. Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, even with dentures. This includes cleaning the dentures daily and ensuring that the gums are healthy. Healthy gums provide a better foundation for the dentures.

Conclusion
In summary, while it is not uncommon for new denture wearers to experience issues with stability and fit, there are several strategies to address these challenges. Encouraging your father to consult with his dentist for adjustments and exploring the use of adhesives can significantly improve his experience with full dentures. If problems persist, discussing alternative options, such as implant-supported dentures, may provide a more permanent solution. Regular follow-ups with the dentist will ensure that any changes in the mouth are promptly addressed, leading to a more comfortable and functional denture experience.

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