Common Signs That Denture Adjustments May Be Necessary

It is important to adjust dentures when they cause concerns to help ensure the issues are resolved and to avoid more severe concerns and the need for denture replacement. Denture adjustments may be necessary when your dentures do not fit properly, experience minor damage, or are outdated and worn down.

When to consider denture adjustments

A denture adjustment involves minor improvements in the way your dentures fit, look, and function. This is often performed in the dentist’s office, but it may involve sending the dentures to the laboratory in some cases. The following is a more detailed review of when denture adjustments are recommended by dental professionals.

Dentures that do not fit properly

Perhaps the most common reason that dentists recommend denture adjustments is to improve the overall fit and comfort level they provide. The jaw as well as natural teeth can shift over time. This can lead to dentures that cause a fair amount of discomfort and swelling to the gums and are at a higher risk of coming loose. To promptly address the concern, dentists recommend denture adjustments when the fit is not ideal.

Broken dentures

Although denture adjustments are commonly performed to address an improper fit, a dentist can also repair minor damage to the dentures during an adjustment as well. This may involve fixing a chipped or cracked tooth or repairing the acrylic base of the dentures. Severe damage to the dentures may require a more extensive denture repair or replacement, but minor breaks often only require a denture adjustment.

Dentures with missing teeth

Dentists can often replace teeth that are missing from dentures as well during an adjustment. However, this is not typically a fast in-office process and may take more time to complete, especially if there are multiple teeth that need replacement. Nevertheless, it is encouraged to visit a dentist for a denture adjustment or repair if any teeth with your dentures are damaged or knocked out.

Damage to the base of the dentures

The acrylic denture base can damage or wear down over time. When this occurs, what is known as a denture rebasing may be required. This involves removing the acrylic base and creating a new base to replace it with. This process can take longer, but it can be incredibly beneficial.

Worn down or outdated dentures

Dentists often recommend denture adjustments for worn-down dentures, and many recommend having dentures adjusted approximately every year or every other year. This can help extend the lifespan of the dentures and reduce the risk of needing a more expensive denture replacement earlier than anticipated.

Are you considering denture adjustments?

Here at our dental practice, we can perform denture adjustments, help you keep your dentures in optimal condition long-term, and help avoid the need for denture replacement. If you are having any concerns with your dentures and want to find out if you can benefit from a denture adjustment, then contact us by phone or message today to set up a convenient time to visit.

Request an appointment here: https://www.soalsmiles.com or call South Alabama Smiles at (251) 206-6339 for an appointment in our Mobile office.

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