Dentures can be a great solution for those who have lost teeth, but they can also cause discomfort and irritation when they rub against the gums. This can make it difficult to eat, speak, and even smile. If you’re experiencing discomfort from dentures rubbing gums, don’t worry – you’re not alone.
The good news is that there are some simple tips and tricks you can use to alleviate the discomfort and get back to feeling comfortable and confident with your dentures. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most effective ways to ease the discomfort caused by dentures rubbing against your gums, from adjusting your dentures to using specialized products designed specifically for denture wearers.
By following these tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of dentures without the discomfort that can sometimes come with them. So, let’s dive in and discover how to alleviate discomfort from dentures rubbing gums!
Understanding why dentures rub against gums
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that are designed to replace missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit the unique shape of your mouth and are typically made from a combination of materials, including acrylic, metal, and porcelain. While dentures can be a great solution for those who have lost teeth, they can also cause discomfort and irritation when they rub against the gums.
One of the main reasons dentures rub against gums is that they can become loose over time. This can be due to a variety of factors, including changes in the shape of your mouth, weight loss or gain, and simply wear and tear over time. When dentures become loose, they can move around in your mouth, causing friction and irritation against the gums.
Another common reason dentures rub against gums is that they may not have been fitted properly in the first place. If your dentures were not made to fit your mouth correctly, they may rub against your gums and cause discomfort. It’s important to work with a qualified dentist or denturist to ensure your dentures are properly fitted to your mouth.
Common problems caused by dentures rubbing gums
When dentures rub against gums, they can cause a number of problems. These problems can range from minor irritation to more serious issues that can impact your overall health and well-being. Some of the most common problems caused by dentures rubbing gums include:
Sore spots
Sore spots are a common problem for denture wearers. When dentures rub against the gums, they can cause small areas of irritation to develop. These areas can become sore and painful, making it difficult to eat, speak, and even smile.
Inflammation
Inflammation is another common problem caused by dentures rubbing against gums. When dentures rub against the gums, they can cause the tissue to become inflamed. This can lead to redness, swelling, and discomfort.
Difficulty eating
Dentures that rub against the gums can also make it difficult to eat. When dentures move around in your mouth, they can make it difficult to chew and swallow food. This can lead to malnutrition and other health problems.
Difficulty speaking
In addition to making it difficult to eat, dentures that rub against the gums can also make it difficult to speak. When dentures move around in your mouth, they can make it difficult to form words and speak clearly.
Tips for adjusting your dentures to alleviate discomfort
If you’re experiencing discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums, there are some simple tips you can try to alleviate the discomfort. Here are some tips for adjusting your dentures to alleviate discomfort:
Use denture adhesive
One of the easiest ways to alleviate discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums is to use denture adhesive. Denture adhesive can help keep your dentures in place and prevent them from moving around in your mouth. This can help reduce friction and irritation against the gums.
Adjust the fit of your dentures
If your dentures are causing discomfort, it may be time to adjust the fit. This can be done by working with a qualified dentist or denturist. They can make small adjustments to the dentures to ensure they fit properly and don’t rub against your gums.
Use a denture cushion
Another option for alleviating discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums is to use a denture cushion. A denture cushion is a soft, pliable material that can be placed between the dentures and the gums. This can help reduce friction and irritation against the gums.
Practice good oral hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene is important when you wear dentures. This includes brushing your teeth and gums twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Good oral hygiene can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth.
Avoid certain foods
Some foods can be more difficult to eat with dentures than others. To alleviate discomfort, it’s important to avoid foods that are hard or chewy. Instead, opt for softer, easier-to-chew foods.
Specialized products for denture wearers
In addition to adjusting your dentures and practicing good oral hygiene, there are also specialized products designed specifically for denture wearers. These products can help alleviate discomfort and make wearing dentures more comfortable. Here are some specialized products for denture wearers:
Denture brushes
Denture brushes are designed to clean dentures without damaging them. They have soft bristles that can help remove food particles and plaque from the dentures.
Denture cleansers
Denture cleansers are designed to clean dentures and remove bacteria that can cause inflammation and irritation in the mouth. They come in a variety of forms, including tablets, creams, and gels.
Denture adhesives
Denture adhesives can help keep dentures in place and prevent them from moving around in the mouth. They come in a variety of forms, including creams, powders, and strips.
Denture cushions
Denture cushions are a soft, pliable material that can be placed between the dentures and the gums. They can help reduce friction and irritation against the gums.
Home remedies for alleviating discomfort
In addition to specialized products, there are also a number of home remedies you can try to alleviate discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums. Here are some home remedies for alleviating discomfort:
Salt water rinse
A salt water rinse can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth. To make a salt water rinse, mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth. To use aloe vera for denture discomfort, simply apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area.
Clove oil
Clove oil has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation in the mouth. To use clove oil for denture discomfort, apply a small amount of oil to the affected area.
Tea bags
Tea bags contain tannic acid, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe sore spots in the mouth. To use a tea bag for denture discomfort, steep a tea bag in hot water, then let it cool. Place the tea bag on the affected area for 5-10 minutes.
Importance of proper denture care
Proper denture care is essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing discomfort and irritation. Here are some tips for proper denture care:
Clean your dentures daily
It’s important to clean your dentures daily to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria. Use a denture brush and denture cleanser to clean your dentures.
Soak your dentures overnight
Soaking your dentures overnight can help remove bacteria and keep them fresh. Use a denture cleanser and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking.
Brush your gums and tongue
Brushing your gums and tongue can help remove bacteria and prevent inflammation and irritation in the mouth.
Visit your dentist or denturist regularly
Regular visits to your dentist or denturist can help ensure your dentures are properly fitted and in good condition. They can also identify any problems early on and provide treatment as needed.
Consultation with your dentist or denturist
If you’re experiencing discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums, it’s important to consult with your dentist or denturist. They can assess the fit of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments. They can also provide advice on proper denture care and recommend specialized products that can help alleviate discomfort.
Alternative solutions to dentures
If you’re unable to find relief from denture discomfort, there are alternative solutions to dentures that you may want to consider. Some of these solutions include dental implants, bridge work, and partial dentures. Consult with your dentist or denturist to determine which solution is right for you.
Frequently asked questions about denture discomfort
Q: Why do dentures rub against gums?
A: Dentures can rub against gums due to a variety of factors, including changes in the shape of your mouth, weight loss or gain, and simply wear and tear over time.
Q: What are some common problems caused by dentures rubbing gums?
A: Some common problems caused by dentures rubbing gums include sore spots, inflammation, difficulty eating, and difficulty speaking.
Q: How can I alleviate discomfort from dentures rubbing against my gums?
A: There are a number of tips and tricks you can try to alleviate discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums. These include using denture adhesive, adjusting the fit of your dentures, using specialized products designed for denture wearers, and practicing good oral hygiene.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Dentures can be a great solution for those who have lost teeth, but they can also cause discomfort and irritation when they rub against the gums. Fortunately, there are a number of tips and tricks you can try to alleviate discomfort from dentures rubbing against your gums.
From adjusting the fit of your dentures to using specialized products designed for denture wearers, there are many ways to make wearing dentures more comfortable. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy all the benefits of dentures without the discomfort that can sometimes come with them.
