If you wear dentures, it is very important you keep your mouth clean and healthy. It’s also important that you only wear dentures that fit properly. Otherwise, the following problems may occur:

• Gum and mouth irritation
• Problems eating and speaking
• Dentures that move around in your mouth
• Mouth infections

Treating Denture Problems

If you have problems with your dentures, see your dentist right away. Your dentures may need to be adjusted or replaced.

Here are some ways to treat various denture problems:

Make sure your dentures fit. Over time, your gums and bones will change and your dentures won’t fit as well. When this happens, your dentures need to be adjusted, modified, or replaced by your dentist. Never try to adjust your dentures yourself.

Speak slowly. When you first get dentures, it may be hard for you to say certain words. Be patient. Practice saying the challenging words aloud and speak slowly. If your dentures move around when you laugh or smile, gently bite down and swallow to put them back in place. Check with your dentist to adjust the fit.

Eat soft foods. If you are having trouble eating, follow these tips:

• Take small bites of soft foods, such as eggs and yogurt.
• Don’t eat anything sticky.
• Chew your food slowly.
• When you chew, use both sides of your mouth at the same time. This prevents your dentures from moving forward or tipping.

Eating will become easier as you get used to your dentures. In time, you should be able to eat most foods.

Use an adhesive. Denture adhesives help your dentures stay in place and make them feel more secure. But denture adhesives should not be used to fix old or poorly fitting dentures. When using an adhesive, follow the instructions carefully. Use only a small amount.