When you first get them, your dentures will fit your smile like a glove. They go through a rigorous customization process that, thanks to modern technology, has never been more accurate. That said, your oral structure changes naturally as you age. Over time, your dentures’ once-perfect shape can become less and less ideal.
When this happens, it’s important to see your dentist in Jackson for a prompt reline! Otherwise, a benign mouth sore could turn into a much more serious (and potentially life-threatening) problem.
Signs of Ill-Fitting Dentures
First thing’s first – you can’t schedule an appointment with your dentist if you don’t know you need one! Here’s how you can tell your dentures don’t fit as well as they used to:
- They slip out of place or click when you talk or chew
- You have difficulties biting, eating, or swallowing
- You have trouble enunciating clearly
- There’s sore spots, redness, or swelling in your mouth
Basically, if you’ve been struggling with your dentures more than usual, you could very well need a reline (an adjustment that involves correcting the physical shape of your dentures).
How “Benign” Problems Get Worse
Now, problems like the ones mentioned above are relatively harmless. Time is not on your side in this situation, though. As ill-fitting dentures continue to chafe against your soft oral tissue, sores and cuts that don’t get the chance to heal can develop serious infections. The near-constant friction can also cause long-term damage to tissue cells. Basically, the chronic irritation interferes with the immune system and makes your mouth more vulnerable.
Dangers of Postponing Your Reline
It’s one thing to wait a day or two to schedule a denture reline with your dentist. You’re not likely to be in any immediate danger if you address the issue promptly. It’s another thing to keep postponing your appointment for weeks and months. Oral infections can enter the bloodstream and trigger sepsis, difficulties swallowing properly can cause pneumonia as food or liquid travels into the lungs, and damaged cells are more likely to mutate and become cancerous.
When identified early, these conditions often have positive treatment outcomes. Otherwise, they can be deadly. Fortunately, your dentist can help you determine whether it’s time to reline your dentures. By scheduling regular checkups and cleanings and contacting them when you experience difficulties, you can prevent a harmless sore from becoming something far more sinister.
About the Author
Dr. Bradley J. Malley and Dr. Alex S. Abernathy have decades of combined experience in dentistry. Known for their attentive care, you can trust Dr. Malley and Dr. Abernathy to give you the one-on-one attention you deserve. If you have dentures, they’ll go the extra mile to make sure your replacement teeth fit well and will continue to promote the health of your smile. To schedule a reline appointment, contact their office at 601-981-8166.