After using dentures for a while, many people find them loose, rubbing and painful on the gums. This is common and can be managed, so do not just put up with it or try to fix it at home.
- Dentures often loosen because the jawbone and gums change over time or because an old denture has worn down and warped.
- A loose, rubbing denture can make gums red, sore and ulcerated and chewing poor, so it should not be put up with.
- Do not grind, repair or glue it yourself, take it out to rest the gums, rinse with lightly salted water and see a dentist.
- The dentist can adjust the rubbing spot, reline the base or make a new denture, and regular check-ups are advised.
Removable dentures help you chew and speak with more confidence. But after a while many people find the denture loose, slipping when eating, rubbing and sore on the gums. This article explains the causes and how to deal with it properly.
Why do dentures become loose and make gums sore?
- The jawbone shrinks over time: after teeth are lost, the bone and gum underneath change, so the denture no longer fits as it did. See long-term tooth loss and jawbone shrinkage.
- A denture used for many years: the acrylic base and artificial teeth wear down and warp.
- Changes in weight or health: they alter the shape of the gums and mouth.
- Poor cleaning: plaque under the denture causes inflammation, sores or a fungal infection of the mouth.
What problems does a loose, rubbing denture cause?
- The gums are rubbed, red and sore, sometimes with ulcers.
- Chewing is poor and the denture slips when speaking.
- The gums under the denture become inflamed more easily if cleaning is poor.
What should I do when the denture is loose or sore?
- Take the denture out to rest the gums when they hurt a lot.
- Rinse with lightly salted water and clean the denture thoroughly.
- Do not grind it, repair it yourself or use glue, which can damage the denture and make the pain worse.
- See a dentist to have it checked and adjusted or remade when needed.
When does it need adjusting, relining or a new denture?
After an examination, the dentist may adjust the rubbing spot, reline the base for a closer fit or make a new denture if it is too old. If you want firmer teeth you can ask about implants to hold the denture. See what you need to know about dental implants. Regular denture check-ups are also a good idea.
Keeping the denture clean
See how to care for removable dentures for older adults for daily cleaning and storage. If you still have loose natural teeth, read should a loose tooth be kept or pulled.
Denture check-ups at Ky Hoa
For costs, see the price page. Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during working hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 (Zalo 082.299.3377) to ask about quieter hours first.
Frequently asked questions
Why does a denture become loose after a while?
The jawbone and gums change gradually over time, so the denture no longer fits as it did. A denture used for many years also wears down and warps.
Can I fix a denture that rubs my gums myself?
You should not grind it, repair it yourself or use glue because that can damage the denture and make the pain worse. See a dentist to have it checked and adjusted.
How often should I have my denture checked?
Have regular check-ups so the dentist can check the fit and the condition of the gums. If it feels loose, rubs or hurts, go sooner.
Is there a way to have firmer teeth than a removable denture?
You can ask the dentist about implants to hold the denture or other ways of replacing teeth. The choice depends on your bone and general health.