Dentures have been a tried-and-true way to restore teeth when many or all are missing. Regardless of whether you manage to maintain your natural teeth or not, your jaw and mouth will change over time, as you age. People with missing teeth are liable to lose some degree of jawbone density, and even more if paired with osteoporosis. Meanwhile, the ridges of your gums and gum tissues in general can shrink up significantly with the passing years. Unfortunately, this can translate into ill-fitting dentures over time. Fortunately, your Pella, IA dentist, Dr. Jeffrey Allen, can offer you information to prepare for denture issues.
Dentures May Need Repair or Replacement
Your dentures are customized for the shape of your mouth at the time you receive them. When that shape changes over time, your once tight, stable, and firm dentures can become loose and wobbly. This can be very embarrassing if it happens when eating out in public, or chatting with someone. Your Pella, IA dentist generally suggests that traditional denture wearers get dentures refitted, relined, or replaced every 5 to 7 years. Call your dentist much sooner if you experience any soreness or on-going pain, slurred speech, whistling or clicking, chewing issues, the appearance of extra wrinkles around your mouth, or facial collapse.
Don’t Forget to Visit Your Dentist
Just because you don’t have teeth doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still maintain regular dental appointments. While you can probably stretch things out to once-a-year for dentures, you still need an oral checkup. Not only will you be screened for how well your dentures fit, but you’ll also be looked at for early signs and symptoms of oral cancer, diabetes, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Denture Care from Pella, IA Dentist
Your Pella, IA dentist provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Contact our 50219 dentist office to schedule a checkup and cleaning, restoration consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.