Addressing Issues with Partial Dentures: Height and Angle Concerns

Issues with the angle and height of removable partial dentures and dental bridges?

Recently, I received a set of removable partial dentures for both the upper and lower jaws, which include a palladium metal bridge and metal clasps, primarily for the bilateral molars and a few anterior teeth.
Currently, the fit of the upper denture feels appropriate, but the lower denture feels like the lingual side of the bridge is protruding significantly into the gums, which hinders the movement of my tongue during chewing.
Is this a necessary condition, or can I ask the dentist to slightly trim the lingual resin portion of the bridge? Would trimming it by 2mm severely affect the stability of the denture? Additionally, I have no issues biting through gluten when not wearing the dentures, but I find it difficult to do so when wearing them.
Is this discomfort a result of initial adaptation, or does the denture affect the occlusal force of my natural teeth? I am concerned that my questions may cause embarrassment to the dentist, so I wanted to seek your advice first.

Chulaozhe, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/19

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

1.
If the lingual resin base of the removable denture is too long or too thick, it may compress the gums, causing pain.
Additionally, patients may feel restricted tongue movement and discomfort when first wearing the denture.
It is recommended to return to the clinic for adjustments by the dentist.

2.
If there are issues with biting into food with the dentures, it may be necessary to return for an adjustment of the occlusion between the upper and lower dentures.

Director Tseng Guang-Hui, Nantou Hospital Dental Department.

Reply Date: 2022/03/19

More Info

When it comes to addressing issues with partial dentures, particularly regarding height and angle concerns, it’s essential to understand the mechanics of dental prosthetics and how they interact with the natural dentition. Your experience with the upper and lower partial dentures, especially the discomfort caused by the metal bridge on the lingual side of the lower arch, is not uncommon.
Firstly, the design of partial dentures often includes metal frameworks that provide support and retention for the prosthetic teeth. These frameworks are typically designed to be as unobtrusive as possible while still maintaining the necessary stability and functionality. However, if the metal bridge is protruding excessively into the gingival area, it can indeed hinder the movement of the tongue and affect chewing efficiency.
Regarding your question about trimming the lingual side of the resin portion of the bridge, it is generally possible to adjust the height of the denture. However, this should be done cautiously and under the supervision of a qualified dentist. Reducing the height by 2mm may not significantly compromise the stability of the denture, but it’s crucial to consider how this adjustment will affect the overall fit and function. The dentist will need to evaluate the specific design of your partial denture, including how it interacts with your remaining natural teeth and the occlusion (bite) you have.

If the denture is affecting your ability to chew certain foods, such as gluten-containing products, this could be due to a few factors. One possibility is that the denture is not providing adequate support or alignment with your natural bite, leading to a decrease in chewing efficiency. Another factor could be the adaptation period; many patients experience an adjustment phase when they first receive their dentures, during which they may feel discomfort or difficulty with certain foods.
It’s also important to consider the role of the remaining natural teeth in your occlusion. If the partial denture alters the way your upper and lower teeth come together, it could lead to a decrease in biting force. This is particularly relevant if the denture is not seated properly or if there are discrepancies in the occlusal plane.

In summary, if you are experiencing discomfort or functional limitations with your partial dentures, it’s advisable to consult your dentist. They can assess the fit and function of the dentures, make necessary adjustments, and ensure that your oral health is not compromised. Open communication with your dental provider is key; don’t hesitate to express your concerns and ask questions about the adjustments being made. Your comfort and ability to chew effectively are paramount, and your dentist is there to help you achieve that balance.

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