How To Keep Dentures In Place Without Adhesive

Wearing dentures is a common solution for individuals with missing teeth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. However, many denture wearers encounter challenges with keeping their dentures securely in place, often resorting to denture adhesives. This article will explore how to keep dentures in place without adhesive and the power of suction dentures. Understanding why dentures may become loose and essential care practices can provide a more comfortable and stable denture experience.

How To Prevent Dentures From Getting Loose

Many denture wearers strive to keep full or partial dentures securely in place without relying on adhesives. While denture adhesives can be effective, exploring natural methods can provide a more comfortable and convenient solution.

Here are practical tips to enhance the stability of your false teeth:

Proper Denture Fit

A well-fitted prosthetic is the foundation for keeping dentures in place. Work closely with your dental prosthetist during the initial fitting to ensure the dentures conform to your mouth’s unique contours.

Regular check-ups can help identify any changes that require adjustments to maintain a snug fit.

Chewing Techniques

Adjusting your chewing technique can significantly impact denture stability. Chew slowly and evenly, distributing the pressure across the upper and lower dentures.

This prevents uneven stress that may contribute to dislodgement and discomfort.

Hydration And Saliva Production

Adequate salivary production is essential for denture stability. Staying hydrated throughout the day promotes natural saliva flow, which aids in maintaining suction between the denture and the gums.

Sugar-free chewing gum can also stimulate saliva production, offering a natural way to enhance denture stability.

Dietary Considerations

Preventing denture movement is mostly dependent on diet selection. Reintroduce a range of textures into your diet, starting with softer foods. Avoid meals that are too firm or sticky, as these might affect denture adherence.

Proper nutrition contributes not only to overall health but also to the stability of your dentures.

Regular Oral Exercises

Engage in gentle oral exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your dentures. These exercises can include tongue and cheek movements that promote better control and stability.

Consult with your prosthetist to learn specific exercises tailored to your needs.

Proper Denture Care

Maintaining clean and well-cared-for dentures is essential for preventing movement. Regularly clean your dentures using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleaner. Avoid abrasive materials that may cause damage. Clean dentures contribute to a better fit and minimise the risk of discomfort or instability.

Avoiding Extreme Temperatures

Exposure to extreme temperatures, especially hot water, can affect the shape and fit of dentures. Clean your dentures with warm water and exercise caution to prevent warping.

Extremes in temperature may compromise the material and lead to an ill-fitting denture.

Communication With Your Prosthetist

Open communication with your dental prosthetist is crucial for addressing any concerns about denture stability.

If you experience discomfort or notice increased movement, schedule a consultation to identify potential issues and explore appropriate solutions.

Why Dentures Don’t Stay In Place

While dentistry offers a viable solution for individuals with missing teeth, dentures may face difficulty staying securely in place.

Understanding the reasons behind denture instability is crucial for addressing these issues effectively.

Here are some common factors contributing to the difficulty of keeping dentures in place:

Changes In Jawbone Structure: One primary reason dentures may not stay in place is the natural alteration of the jawbone over time. Unlike natural teeth, dentures do not stimulate the jawbone, leading to a gradual process called bone resorption. This can result in a change in the shape of the gum line, causing dentures to lose their initial snug fit.
Loose Dentures: The fit of dentures plays a pivotal role in their stability. Poorly fitted dentures, whether due to initial inaccuracies in the fitting process or changes in the oral structure over time, can lead to discomfort and instability. Regular check-ups with a prosthetist are essential to promptly identify and address any fitting issues.
Dry Mouth: Many denture wearers experience dry mouth, a condition characterised by insufficient saliva production. Saliva is crucial in creating suction between the denture and the gums, contributing to stability. When there is a lack of saliva, dentures may not adhere as effectively, resulting in movement and discomfort.
Chewing Patterns And Habits: Individuals adapting to dentures may unknowingly adopt chewing patterns contributing to instability. Uneven pressure during chewing, especially if concentrated on one side, can lead to dentures dislodging. Proper guidance from a dental prosthetist can help patients develop optimal chewing techniques.
Changes In Diet: Denture wearers may find adjusting to a new diet challenging. Sticky or excessively hard foods can challenge denture stability, causing them to move or dislodge. Gradual adjustments to dietary habits, starting with softer foods, can help prevent unexpected denture movement.
Lack Of Adequate Suction: The suction effect between dentures and the gums is crucial for stability. Factors such as excessive saliva, poorly fitting dentures, or changes in the oral environment can compromise this suction, leading to denture movement. Understanding and addressing these factors can contribute to enhanced denture stability.
External Factors: External factors, such as extreme temperatures, can affect the fit of dentures. Exposure to hot water, for example, may cause the denture material to warp, resulting in an ill-fitting prosthetic. Handling dentures with care and following proper cleaning and maintenance practices are essential.

Suction Dentures: A Great Alternative To Keeping Dentures In Place Without Adhesive

Suction dentures, also known as suction effective dentures or suction cup dentures, provide a natural and effective alternative for keeping dentures securely in place without the need for adhesive. This innovative approach relies on creating a vacuum seal between the denture and the gums, enhancing stability and comfort.

Benefits Of Suction Dentures

Suction dentures employ a unique design that utilises the principles of suction to create a secure bond between the denture and the oral tissues. The key components of suction dentures include:

Customised Fit: Suction dentures are crafted for a highly personalised and snug fit. Dental professionals take meticulous impressions and measurements to ensure the dentures conform precisely to the contours of the patient’s mouth.
Enhanced Suction Mechanism: The design incorporates features that facilitate the creation of a vacuum seal between the denture and the gums. This enhanced suction mechanism minimises the likelihood of denture movement during daily activities, such as speaking and eating.
Natural Adherence To Oral Tissues: Suction dentures leverage the natural properties of the oral tissues to establish and maintain adherence. The vacuum seal helps distribute pressure evenly across the denture, reducing the chances of discomfort and irritation.

How To Take Care Of Your Dentures To Ensure Stability

Maintaining the stability of your dentures is crucial for comfort, functionality, and overall oral health. Proper care practices can significantly prevent movement and ensure a secure fit.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your dentures to keep them in place:

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Your dentures’ fit and form may change if exposed to extremely high or low temperatures. Use warm water instead of hot water to clean them, which might cause warping. Severe heat waves can destroy denture material integrity, resulting in an ill-fitting prosthesis.
Proper Denture Adhesive Use: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully if you use denture adhesive for added stability. Apply the adhesive sparingly, as using too much can lead to excess material oozing out and affecting the fit. Experiment with small amounts to find the right balance for your needs.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your prosthetist to monitor the condition of your dentures and address any fit issues promptly. Your dental prosthetist can identify changes in your oral structure, recommend adjustments, and ensure the ongoing stability of your prosthetics.
Practise Proper Denture Removal: When removing your dentures, do so with care. Use both hands and a rocking motion to release the suction gently. Avoid using excessive force or sudden movements that could dislodge the dentures unexpectedly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hot water to clean my new dentures?

It is advisable to clean dentures with warm water, as hot water may warp the denture material. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleaner for effective cleaning without causing damage.

How often should I see my prosthetist for denture adjustments?

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for denture wearers. Schedule appointments at least once a year or as your prosthetist recommends to address any fit issues and ensure the overall health of your oral tissues.

Are there specific foods I should avoid with dentures?

While wearing dentures, avoiding sticky or hard foods that can dislodge the prosthetics is best. Gradually reintroduce various foods, starting with softer options, and chew slowly to prevent discomfort or movement.

The Bottom Line: Keeping Your Dentures Fitted Without Adhesives

By understanding the reasons behind denture instability and adopting proper care practices, individuals can enjoy a more comfortable and secure denture experience.

While denture adhesives provide a temporary solution, exploring fitting options, maintaining good oral hygiene, and considering alternative interventions like dental implants can contribute to long-term denture stability.

Regular communication with a dental prosthetist addresses concerns and ensures dentures’ ongoing comfort and effectiveness.

Contact Custom Denture Clinic, QLD, at (07) 5317 1023 (Buderim) or (07) 5315 8076 (Caloundra) to learn more about how to keep your dentures in good shape.

Sources:

Clarius, Aaron. “Loose Dentures: Possible Causes and Remedies.” NewMouth, 15 Feb. 2024, www.newmouth.com/dentistry/restorative/dentures/loose.

“Dentures With Super Suction.” British Dental Journal, vol. 212, no. 5, Mar. 2012, p. 249. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2012.202.

Fixodent. Ill-fitting Dentures – Reasons and Solutions | Fixodent. www.dentureliving.com/en-us/advice-tips/preparing-for-dentures/size-fitting/ill-fitting-dentures.

Higuera, Valencia. “How to Care for Your Dentures.” Healthline, 1 Feb. 2021, www.healthline.com/health/denture-care.

JCDR – Denture Retention, Palatal Perforation, Suction Cup. www.jcdr.net/article_fulltext.asp?id=3413.

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