New dentures should feel secure, comfortable, and allow you to chew and speak with ease, but many people find that their dentures don’t fit quite right at first. Whether they feel loose, cause sore spots, or affect your bite, poorly fitting dentures can interfere with daily life and may need professional adjustment.
This article explains how dentures should fit, why they sometimes feel uncomfortable, signs that your dentures aren’t fitting properly, and how to make them fit better. We’ll also cover whether dentures can be reshaped and what to expect during the adjustment process.
How Should Dentures Fit?
Properly fitting dentures should feel snug and stable. They shouldn’t shift around when you talk or eat. You may feel some initial awkwardness when adjusting to new dentures, but they shouldn’t cause ongoing pain, sore spots, or difficulty chewing.
A good fit means:
- No slipping or clicking when speaking or chewing
- No sharp edges causing irritation
- Comfortable pressure on your gums without pain
- Easy and natural speech
How Do You Know If Your Dentures Fit Right?
If you’re unsure whether your dentures are fitting properly, here are some common signs they may need adjustment:
- Soreness or pain: Your new dentures might cause soreness or pain because they are rubbing against your gums. This can create pressure points, which can lead to inflammation or even mouth sores.
- Looseness or movement: If your dentures slide, lift, or make clicking sounds when you eat or talk, they likely don’t fit as well as they should.
- Difficulty chewing: Trouble biting or chewing certain foods can indicate a poor fit or misalignment.
- Changes in speech: If you find it harder to pronounce words clearly, especially sounds like “s” or “th,” your dentures may be shifting or sitting unevenly.
Why Don’t New Dentures Always Fit Perfectly?
Several factors can affect how dentures fit—especially during the first few months.
- Gum and bone changes: After tooth removal, your jawbone and gums naturally shrink and change shape as they heal. This process continues for weeks or months, and it can affect how your dentures sit.
- Initial swelling: If your dentures were placed soon after extractions, swelling in the gums can temporarily affect the fit.
- Normal adjustments: Even well-made dentures often need minor adjustments after delivery to improve comfort and function.
How to Make Dentures Fit Better
If your dentures don’t feel quite right, here’s what you can do:
1. Visit Your Dentist for an Adjustment
Your dentist can check for pressure spots, adjust the bite, and reshape certain areas to relieve discomfort. This is a normal part of getting used to new dentures.
2. Use Denture Adhesive (If Recommended)
Use a denture adhesive to help keep your dentures secure, especially when you’re first getting used to them. It’s a temporary fix and not a replacement for a proper fit.
3. Give Your Mouth Time to Heal
It’s normal for your gums and jaw to take time to adapt after getting dentures. Allow several weeks for your tissues to settle. If problems continue, talk to your dentist.
4. Keep Dentures Clean
Poor hygiene can worsen discomfort. Clean your dentures daily and rinse your mouth after meals to prevent irritation or infection.
Can Dentures Be Reshaped?
Yes, dentures can often be reshaped or adjusted by a dentist to improve their fit and comfort. The type of adjustment depends on the severity of the issue.
- Minor reshaping: Your dentist can polish or trim areas that are causing pressure or soreness.
- Relining: A soft or hard reline involves adding material inside the denture to improve how it fits your gums.
- Replacement: If the denture no longer matches the shape of your gums due to bone changes or aging, a full replacement might be needed.
If your dentures are causing discomfort, don’t try to reshape your dentures yourself. You could damage them permanently or cause harm to your gums.
Can You Fix Dentures at Home?
While it may be tempting to adjust your dentures at home, doing so can cause more harm than good. You should never try to modify your dentures yourself. They are made with precise materials, and only a professional with special tools can safely adjust them.
DIY denture adjustments can:
- Crack or warp the denture
- Create uneven pressure and discomfort
- Lead to gum irritation or infection
If you’re having issues with how your dentures fit, it’s always best to let your dentist evaluate them and recommend a safe solution.
Get Help With Your Denture Fit in Reno at Andresen Prosthodontics
At Andresen Prosthodontics, we specialize in custom-fitting and adjusting dentures for long-term comfort and function. Whether you’re dealing with new dentures or long-time wear, our experienced team can assess your bite, relieve sore spots, and help you regain confidence in your smile.
Contact us today to schedule your denture adjustment or consultation.
Frequently Asked Question
1. How do I know if my dentures don’t fit properly?
If your dentures slip while talking or eating, cause sore spots, create pressure in certain areas, or affect your ability to chew or speak clearly, they likely don’t fit properly. A proper denture fit should feel stable, comfortable, and not cause irritation or movement.
2. Can dentures be reshaped to fit better?
Yes, dentures can often be reshaped or adjusted by a dentist. Minor pressure points can be smoothed, and relining can improve the fit by adding new material to the base. In cases of significant changes to the gums or jaw, new dentures may be recommended.
3. What causes dentures to feel loose or uncomfortable over time?
Changes in your gums and jawbone after tooth loss are the most common reasons. As the tissues heal and shrink, the dentures may no longer match your mouth’s shape. Other causes include worn-down denture surfaces or damage to the appliance.
4. What should I do if my dentures are causing pain or sore spots?
If your dentures are causing discomfort, don’t try to adjust them yourself. Schedule a dental appointment to have them checked. A dentist can pinpoint the issue, make safe adjustments, and recommend solutions like relining or replacement if needed.
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