Know These 5 Complications of Ill-Fitting Dentures

When dentures don’t fit correctly, daily activities like eating, speaking, and smiling can become uncomfortable or even painful. While some denture wearers assume that irritation is normal, poorly fitting dentures can cause much more than minor inconvenience. Over time, they can contribute to significant oral health complications that affect your comfort, confidence, and overall well-being. Here are five problems that can result from ill-fitting dentures and why it’s so important to have them examined by your dentist.

Chronic Gum Irritation

When dentures move around or rub against the gums, they can create persistent sore spots. This friction often leads to redness, swelling, and tenderness. Over time, the constant irritation may cause ulcerations, making it difficult to wear your dentures at all. Gum tissue needs stability to stay healthy, and a denture that shifts can prevent proper healing.

Difficulty Eating and Chewing

Dentures should help you enjoy meals comfortably, but a poor fit can make chewing a challenge. You may find yourself avoiding certain foods, chewing unevenly, or experiencing jaw fatigue. In severe cases, you may swallow large, inadequately chewed pieces of food, which can affect digestion. Over time, this can impact your nutrition and quality of life.

Changes in Speech

A well-fitted denture stays secure when you talk. If your dentures click, shift, or slip while speaking, it could be a sign that they no longer match the shape of your mouth. This can cause difficulty pronouncing certain words and may lead to embarrassment or frustration in social situations. Adjustments or a replacement may help restore normal speech patterns.

Bone Loss in the Jaw

One of the most serious long-term complications of ill-fitting dentures is bone resorption. When dentures don’t sit properly on the gums, they fail to provide even pressure across the jaw. This lack of stimulation accelerates bone loss, which can cause your facial structure to change and make getting a proper fit even more difficult. Over time, the cycle of bone loss and denture instability can worsen without professional intervention.

Increased Risk of Infections

Irritated gum tissue and poor fit can create small pockets where food debris and bacteria accumulate. This environment makes it easier for infections such as stomatitis or cheilitis to develop. These infections can cause discomfort, inflammation, and difficulty wearing your dentures. Keeping your dentures clean is essential, but a proper fit is just as important for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Working closely with your dentist ensures that your dentures remain comfortable, functional, and supportive of your long-term oral health.

About the Practice

Martinez Dentistry is here for our Alexandria community. Dr. Martinez and Dr. Grewal provide comprehensive restorative and prosthetic dental care, including custom-fitted dentures designed for comfort, durability, and natural appearance. Our practice covers the full package — denture adjustments, relines, and replacements to help patients maintain a secure and healthy smile. Visit us to learn more.

Call us at (765) 724-7729 or request an appointment online.