Addressing Dental Issues in Seniors: Solutions for Partial Dentures and Tongue Control

Oral issues

Hello, Director Zeng: The elder only has teeth in the front row, and there is a missing tooth in the upper right area.
Previously, you mentioned that a removable denture could be made, but the dentists in our area said that dentures cannot be made for the back area due to the lack of teeth for support.
What should we do about this? Additionally, we have noticed that the elder's tongue tends to extend to the right unconsciously, which causes difficulties in eating, and we are also concerned that the elder might accidentally bite their tongue.
How should we address this issue? Thank you.

Qī, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/27

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If there is only a unilateral posterior edentulous area, wearing a removable denture may not achieve bilateral occlusal balance, which can lead to poor stability of the denture.
Some patients may experience a strong gag reflex and even feel nauseous after the placement of a removable denture.
In such cases, it is advisable to consult a dentist to evaluate the possibility of dental implants.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/08/27

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your senior relative's dental issues. Addressing dental problems in seniors, particularly those involving partial dentures and tongue control, requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account both functional and aesthetic considerations.

Partial Dentures for Seniors
1. Understanding Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are designed to replace missing teeth and can be anchored to existing teeth. If your relative has some remaining teeth, a partial denture can be fabricated to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. The concern about the lack of posterior teeth for anchoring is valid, but there are solutions available.

2. Consulting a Prosthodontist: It is advisable to consult a prosthodontist, a dentist specializing in the design and fitting of artificial teeth. They can evaluate the specific dental anatomy and recommend a suitable type of partial denture. In some cases, a flexible partial denture may be an option, which can adapt to the contours of the mouth and provide a more comfortable fit.

3. Implant-Supported Dentures: If your relative's bone density is sufficient, dental implants may be considered. Implants can provide a stable foundation for dentures, even in cases where there are few remaining teeth. This option may involve a more extensive procedure but can significantly enhance the quality of life by improving chewing function and comfort.

4. Alternative Solutions: If traditional partial dentures are not feasible, other options such as a removable denture that relies on suction or a combination of fixed and removable prosthetics may be explored. The key is to find a solution that provides adequate support and stability while being comfortable for your relative.

Addressing Tongue Control Issues
1. Understanding Tongue Thrusting: The issue of the tongue extending to one side, known as tongue thrusting, can lead to difficulties in eating and potential injuries. This condition can be caused by various factors, including dental misalignment, muscle control issues, or neurological conditions.

2. Speech Therapy: Engaging a speech therapist can be beneficial. They can provide exercises and strategies to help your relative gain better control over their tongue movements. This therapy can also address any associated speech difficulties.

3. Dental Evaluation: A thorough dental evaluation is crucial. Misalignment of teeth can contribute to abnormal tongue positioning. If dental issues are identified, addressing them may help improve tongue control. Orthodontic interventions or adjustments to existing dental work may be necessary.

4. Dietary Modifications: In the meantime, consider modifying the diet to include softer foods that are easier to manage. This can reduce the risk of injury and make mealtime more enjoyable for your relative.

5. Monitoring and Safety: It’s essential to monitor your relative during meals to prevent accidental biting of the tongue. Using adaptive utensils or plates designed for individuals with swallowing difficulties may also help.

Conclusion
In summary, addressing your relative's dental issues involves a multi-faceted approach that includes consulting with dental specialists, exploring various denture options, and potentially engaging in speech therapy for tongue control. It is crucial to ensure that any dental solutions are tailored to your relative's specific needs and comfort levels.
I recommend seeking a dental clinic that specializes in geriatric dentistry, as they will have the expertise to manage complex cases involving seniors. Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you and your relative the best in finding effective solutions to these challenges.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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