Fixing Loose Dentures
When someone experiences substantial tooth loss, dentures are often the most practical treatment. Dentures can replace up to an entire set of teeth. Although traditional dentures have a reputation for being ill-fitting, advanced dental technologies allow many people to get a secure fit. That being said, some struggle with loose dentures.
Loose dentures are uncomfortable and they compromise oral functions. If loose dentures are a problem, dental implants may be the best solution. Dental implants fuse with the jaw to provide unmatched support for dental restorations, including dentures. Dr. James M. Stein is happy to offer dental implants to secure loose dentures so our Boston, MA, patients can bite, chew, smile, and laugh with comfort and confidence.
What Causes Loose Dentures?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to loose dentures. If dentures are loose, it may be because the dentures were not made to properly fit the patient’s mouth. This could be due to insufficient molds that were taken or subpar materials that were used to fabricate the dentures. Most often, dentures fit securely initially and then become loose over time.
It is common for dentures to loosen or become ill-fitting over time. This can occur because of bone resorption, or degeneration. When the jaw is no longer supporting natural teeth, the bone tissues do not receive the stimulation needed to encourage tissue growth. The longer the teeth have been missing, the more bone resorption will occur.
Another reason for loose dentures is a change in the shape of the dentures themselves. With prolonged wear and tear, dentures can weaken or warp slightly so that they no longer fit as well as they once did. It is important that people take good care of their dentures to prolong their lifespan.
Can Loose Dentures Be Secured with Dentures Adhesive?
Dentures adhesive can be used to secure loose dentures and provide a more secure fit. However, adhesive is really only a temporary solution. As bone degeneration worsens, and as dentures become more worn down, fit issues will only get worse. Ultimately, our Boston patients will need to consider a new set of dentures or, better yet, implant-supported dentures.
Correcting Loose Dentures with Dental Implants
For many, dental implants are the best way to address loose dentures. Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jaw. Implants fuse with the bone tissues so that they become a natural part of the jaw. Abutments, or small metal posts, are attached to the implants so that they can act as anchors for a full range of dental restorations, including dentures.
Implant-supported dentures are permanent, meaning they cannot be removed. Implant-supported dentures will never slip, shift, or fall out of place, so they provide our Boston patients with a much more secure and reliable fit.
Dental Implant Benefits
Dental implants ensure that dentures fit comfortably and securely, essentially eliminating concerns regarding loose dentures. They also offer a number of other benefits, including:
- Long-lasting durability
- Ease of care
- Prevention of bone degeneration
- Closest replica to the natural teeth
Contact Us
If your smile has been compromised by loose dentures, we encourage you to consider dental implants. To learn more about dental implants and whether you may be an ideal candidate for this treatment for missing teeth, contact our dental practice online or call (617) 227-6076 and schedule an appointment with Dr. James M. Stein.
