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Denture problems

A denture is a removable plate or frame that can replace missing teeth. It can be made up of plastic or a combination of metal and plastic.

You can have full or partial dentures, depending on number of teeth missing.

Information

Ill-fitting dentures can move. This may cause sore spots. Denture adhesive may help cut down on this movement. Dental implants may be recommended in most cases. Implants help stabilize the denture, minimize their movement and prevent sores. They should only be placed by a well-trained dentist skilled in dental implant placement.

See a dentist if your dentures do not fit correctly. They may need to be adjusted or relined.

Other denture tips:

• Scrub your dentures with plain soap and lukewarm water after eating. Do not clean them with toothpaste.
• Take out your dentures overnight to prevent sores, infections, and inflammation.
• Keep your dentures in a denture cleaner overnight.
• Clean, rest, and massage your gums regularly. Rinse daily with lukewarm salt water to help clean your gums.
• Do not use toothpicks when wearing dentures.

References

American Dental Association website. Denture care and maintenance. www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/dentures. Updated September 14, 2021. Accessed April 6, 2022.

Daher T, Goodacre CJ, Sadowsky SJ. Implant overdentures. In: Fonseca RJ, ed. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. 3rd ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2018:chap 39.

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Review Date: 1/24/2022  

Reviewed By: Michael Kapner, DDS, General Dentistry, Norwalk Medical Center, Norwalk CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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