Dentures can be an effective solution for tooth loss, but they prove problematic in many cases. Lower full arch dentures are perhaps the most difficult restorations, as many patients report issues with comfort and reliability. While upper palate dentures remain fairly stable throughout the day, there are many reasons why lower dentures can loosen, including:
Lack of Suction
When dentures are used on the top arch, the plastic portion of the prosthetic that covers your palate creates suction. This force keeps your denture stable throughout the day. However, lower dentures do not cover the same surface area and cannot utilize suction; denture adhesive is the only thing keeping your teeth in place. This is often not enough and patients find their prosthetics make it difficult to perform routine dental functions.
Position of Tongue
The way your tongue moves, while you speak and eat, contributes to denture movement. As your tongue is seated on the floor of your mouth and constantly presses against the bottom row of teeth, a lower denture can easily be displaced. Through natural positioning of oral structures, these bottom arch teeth replacements are less reliable than their counterparts.
Salivary Glands
Underneath your tongue are two salivary glands that produce the moisture needed to keep your mouth clean and process foods. However, these glands do not help lower dentures much. This moisture can actually affect denture adhesive and make your replacement teeth loosen more easily.
Improving Lower Dentures with Implants
While it’s true that these restorations can cause more problems than they solve, they can be upgraded to create better support and improve patient comfort. Implant-supported hybrid dentures or overdentures are fixed dental restorations that supply reliable wear and use. Dentures can be screwed in place and removed by a dentist only or they can snap onto and off of implant attachments.
Ask Dr. El Bjeirami about Denture Services
Working in conjunction with a lab located in our very same office building, we take every step to ensure your dentures fit well and allow you to enjoy all of your favorite foods. If your dentures are loose, we provide efficient adjustments and can recommend dental implant placement to stabilize your teeth. Ask the team at North Star Family Smiles how we can help you achieve all-day comfort while wearing lower dentures.