Smile Slippage: Troubleshooting Lower Denture Stability

If you’ve experienced the frustration of a lower denture that just won’t stay in place, you’re not alone. Many denture wearers experience issues with stability at times, leading to discomfort and difficulty with activities like eating and socializing. If you’re ready to end your denture woes and take back your smile, continue reading. You’ll find common causes of lower denture slippage and some potential solutions to help you regain confidence and comfort.

Causes for Lower Denture Mobility

Dentures that won’t stay put are certainly frustrating, but what causes them to wiggle? Here are some of the most common reasons for lower denture mobility:

Bone Resorption

Over time, the jawbone begins to shrink in a process known as bone resorption. This can result in a decreased amount of bone to support the lower denture. Because of this, the denture may become loose and unstable.

Poor Denture Fit

If your lower denture is not properly adjusted, it may not provide a snug and secure fit against your gums. Dentures rely on suction for most of their stability, so if there’s a gap, it won’t adhere properly. This can lead to movement and slippage, especially when chewing and speaking.

Gum Changes

The shape and size of the gums can change over time, affecting the fit of your denture. Gum tissue may also swell when it becomes irritated, making it difficult for the denture to stay in place.

Muscle Weakness

Aging and some medical conditions can affect the strength of your jaw muscles. Dentures aren’t passively sitting in your mouth and require muscle control to keep stable. Without adequate control or support, this weakness can cause denture mobility.

Solutions for Lower Denture Slippage

Now that you know what causes your dentures to move around, here are some solutions that may help:

Denture Adhesives

Denture adhesives are readily available in many stores. These creams, powders, or strips can vastly increase the grip of your prosthetics, creating less worry for you.

Relining

Denture relining involves adjusting the base of the denture to better fit the contours of your gums. This can be done using soft or hard materials to improve comfort and stability.

Muscle Exercises

There are simple exercises you can do to strengthen the muscles of the mouth and jaw. Over time, these may help improve denture retention and stability.

Implant-Supported Dentures

If you’re willing to go all-in and never worry about loose dentures again, Implant-supported dentures provide the ultimate stability. First, dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and serve as anchors. Then, a special denture is attached to the implants, preventing slippage and improving chewing efficiency by as much as 80 percent!

Dealing with lower denture mobility can be challenging, but as you can see, there are solutions available. With this knowledge, it’ll be easy to contact your dentist and work together to find one that works for you. If you’re experiencing persistent issues with your denture, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. Your future smile depends on it!

About the Practice

Dentures can be tricky unless you know how to handle them. Luckily, Dr. Ryan Johnson and Dr. Rose Johnson at Jacksonville Dental Excellence have decades of experience in helping patients with their dentures. They are a dedicated and passionate team who use advanced dental technology to provide better quality of life for all their patients. Call (904) 895-4536 to schedule a denture consultation or visit the website to discover the services they offer.