If you’re a first-time denture wearer, you may think the lower prosthetic is the steadier kind. After all, shouldn’t it rely on gravity to keep itself in place? Truthfully, though, this restoration often shifts and slips over time. It can thus make things like eating, speaking, and even smiling rather awkward. All that said, there are ways to solve this particular issue. Read on to learn what causes a loose lower denture and how to keep it more secure.
What Causes a Loose Lower Denture?
Though not all suffer from this issue, many lower dentures fit too loosely. The result is that they get unsteady and shift at the worst times. As for why this can happen, the reasons include the following:
A Flat Ridge or Bone
As it happens, your jaw needs the proper bone height and width to secure a lower denture. The appliance will fit more snugly if you have a lower ridge with a U-shape.
Unfortunately, these qualities are rare when you’ve been without teeth for a long time. In that scenario, your lower jawbone will have eroded and become flat. It’d then be unable to support a denture, as it wouldn’t have the bone tissue to do so.
Poor Denture Border Length
Most lower dentures are well-made, remaining stable and functional. Their design usually only requires a bit of adhesive for extra security.
Still, not all lower dentures are correctly crafted. There are some with borders that are too long or short. Consequently, they won’t form a good and solid seal with your mouth. These dentures can then easily slip or move around.
How Can You Secure It?
Of course, several methods exist for making a lower denture more secure. The best ones are:
- Use of Adhesives or a Reline – If necessary, you can rely on denture adhesives to secure your lower restoration. You simply need to use three small dots’ worth. Keep in mind, however, that adhesive can’t help a poorly-shaped or ill-fitting denture.
- Frequent Practice – In many cases, you can train your face and tongue to steady your lower dentures. This step requires changing your eating and speaking habits.
- A Switch to Implant Dentures – When all else fails, you can always get dental implants to secure your lower dentures. These posts fuse with your jaw, keeping the connected teeth stable and unmoving.
In the end, you can compensate for what causes a loose lower denture. Just use the suggestions above, and you’ll be well on your way!
About the Practice
La Prada Family Dentistry is based in Garland, TX. Led by its amazing team of dentists, our practice strives to offer top-tier dentistry for all ages! We thus perform preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services, as well as emergency dental services. Our office also takes great pride in its dentures and other replacement teeth options. For more information or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (214)-473-5696.
