If you know that your dentures are starting to slide and slip a bit, it's time to get them refitted. However, this can often wait until it's convenient for your schedule, and you may need to simply live with the inconvenience of dentures that are slightly out of place. There are other times when it's good to have your dentures checked by your dentist as soon as possible rather than waiting, and this isn't just when they've broken in two. Note when you should schedule an appointment for quick denture repairs and why this is so important.
1. When your gums are very irritated
You might notice some discomfort when you first start wearing dentures, but if your gums become very irritated and especially if they hurt and bleed, you want to see your dentist as soon as possible. This often means that your dentures need to be refitted, and you may have developed an allergy to a certain denture paste or powder and need a recommendation as to something different. If you continue to wear dentures with very irritated gums, this can only make the problem worse, and you might see them actually bleed; you may even stop wearing your dentures, and this can mean not eating properly, so it's best to see your dentist right away instead.
2. When they have cracked
Cracked dentures may still be intact, and you may think you can keep wearing them for some time. However, a crack means that the strength and durability of the dentures are now compromised. You might bite down on something or just bump the dentures against a counter while cleaning them, and the crack can become an entire break. This can mean a more expensive repair and not having your dentures to wear until you can get them repaired. When you notice a crack, make an appointment as soon as possible and handle the dentures with care in the meantime.
3. When they are rubbing against surrounding teeth or cheeks
If you have partial dentures, they should fit snugly between teeth without actually rubbing up against them. When this happens, you need the dentures to be refitted so that they don't cause erosion of the tooth enamel. If the dentures are rubbing against your cheeks or the roof of your mouth or are getting in the way of your tongue, you also need them refitted as soon as possible. This will reduce the risk of causing injury or irritation to the inside of your mouth.
Share25 May 2016
As a retired dentist, I work with charities which visit developing countries and educate children about dental care. It gives me great satisfaction to revisit these communities and see how proud the children are of their efforts. I am acutely aware that good dental hygiene can help prevent a range of serious conditions when these children become older. I started this blog because it greatly distresses me that many people in Australia do not seem to care for their teeth as much as children in these poor communities. This is happening despite ready access to items like toothbrushes and toothpaste which are luxuries in the places I visit. It is my hope that this blog encourages you not to take dental health for granted. My greatest wish is that you can be as inspired as the children I see in my charity work. Please read on and enjoy.
