Dental Pain in Elderly: Dentures vs. Gum Issues

Elderly patients experiencing tooth pain may be uncertain whether the issue is related to their removable dentures or gum problems?

Hello Dr.
Tseng, my father is 84 years old and has a history of diabetes.
Last August, he had two teeth extracted and received a full upper denture, but he has been experiencing recurrent tooth pain and occlusion issues, which has limited him to eating very soft foods.
Recently, he mentioned that he cannot bite down on food with his upper right teeth.
He visited a doctor who indicated that there is a problem with the gums of a certain tooth on the upper left, but my father insists that his left side does not hurt.
The doctor has made several adjustments to his dentures over the past year, but his condition has not improved! Could you kindly recommend a hospital or clinic in Taoyuan or Zhongli that is more familiar with elderly dental issues? It really pains me to see my father in so much discomfort that he cannot eat, and I feel helpless being abroad.
Thank you very much!

Danxin Baba de Nü'er, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/19

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If you feel discomfort after getting dentures, it may be due to pressure points caused by the dentures themselves, or poor conditions of the gums, such as severe gum atrophy, which can lead to instability of the dentures and make them prone to dislodging.
It is advisable to seek further evaluation from a dentist.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/10/19

More Info

Understanding dental pain in the elderly, especially in patients with a history of diabetes and those who have recently undergone tooth extractions and fitted with dentures, is crucial for ensuring their quality of life. Your father's situation, where he experiences persistent dental pain and difficulty chewing, is not uncommon among older adults, particularly those who have had significant dental work done.

Firstly, it is essential to differentiate between the types of pain your father is experiencing. The pain could stem from several sources: the dentures themselves, underlying gum issues, or even problems with the remaining natural teeth. Given that your father has diabetes, which can complicate oral health, it is vital to address these concerns promptly.

Dentures and Their Challenges:
When a patient receives dentures, especially at an advanced age, it can take time for them to adjust. The process of adapting to new dentures can be uncomfortable, and many patients report issues such as soreness, improper fit, or difficulty in chewing. If your father is experiencing pain specifically when chewing, it could indicate that the dentures are not fitting correctly or that they are putting undue pressure on certain areas of the gums. Regular adjustments by a dentist are necessary, but if the pain persists despite these adjustments, further investigation is warranted.

Gum Issues:
The mention of gum problems is also significant. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is prevalent among older adults and can lead to pain and discomfort. If the dentist has identified issues with the gums around your father's remaining teeth, it could be contributing to his pain. Inflammation or infection in the gums can cause discomfort that might be mistaken for pain from the dentures. It is crucial to ensure that any gum disease is treated effectively, as it can worsen if left unaddressed.

Recommendations:
1. Seek a Specialist: Given the complexity of your father's dental issues, it may be beneficial to consult with a specialist in geriatric dentistry or a periodontist who has experience working with elderly patients. They can provide a more thorough examination and tailored treatment plan. In Taoyuan or Zhongli, you can look for dental clinics that specialize in elderly care or those affiliated with hospitals that have geriatric departments.

2. Regular Follow-ups: Ensure that your father has regular follow-up appointments to monitor his dental health. This is particularly important for managing any underlying conditions, such as diabetes, which can affect oral health.

3. Pain Management: In the meantime, consider discussing pain management options with his healthcare provider. This could include over-the-counter pain relief or topical treatments that can help alleviate discomfort while he adjusts to his dentures.

4. Dietary Adjustments: Since your father is currently limited to soft foods, it might be helpful to explore a variety of nutritious soft food options that can ensure he receives adequate nutrition while managing his dental pain.

5. Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical, especially for diabetic patients. Encourage your father to continue brushing his remaining teeth and gums gently and to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. If he has difficulty managing his oral care, consider seeking assistance from a caregiver or dental hygienist.

In conclusion, your father's dental pain and difficulties with chewing are multifaceted issues that require a comprehensive approach. By seeking specialized care and ensuring regular follow-ups, you can help improve his dental health and overall quality of life. It is understandable to feel helpless being abroad, but advocating for his care and ensuring he receives the appropriate treatment can make a significant difference.

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