Dentures are a popular tooth replacement option and can be lifechanging for people who are missing multiple teeth. However, it is important that you take care of your smile and ensure that your dentures are fitting properly. Neglecting these things could increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Continue reading to learn more about the connection between wearing ill-fitting dentures and oral cancer as well as some signs that your dentures in Coral Springs aren’t fitting properly.
What’s the Link Between Ill-Fitting Dentures and Oral Cancer?
A denture in of itself has not shown to be harmful, but when your dentures aren’t fitting properly, they can trap harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol between them and the soft tissues of your mouth. This can be a source of long-standing inflammation. Chronic inflammation can cause cell damage after a while. Most of the time, these cells are them repaired by your immune system. Changes in these cells are known as mutations, but when they begin to grow too fast for your body, they can become cancer cells. The longer this inflammation goes on, the more likely this is to occur.
How Do I Know If My Dentures Are Ill-Fitting?
Here are the most common signs that your dentures aren’t fitting as well as they should:
- Difficulty Chewing: If you just got your dentures, you may just be needing some time to adjust. However, if you notice that it becomes difficult to chew later on, this could be a sign that you need your dentures to be refitted.
- Discomfort: When dentures are causing jaw soreness, uneven pressure, or discomfort elsewhere in the mouth, this should be addressed with your dentist.
- Pressure Sores: These can develop in places on your gums where the dentures are applying more pressure. Since dentures are supposed to distribute pressure evenly across your gums, this is a sign that they need to be adjusted.
- Speech Pattern Changes: Ill-fitting dentures can move around when you speak, making it more difficult to say certain words. If you notice that you’re slurring, lisping, or salivating excessively when you speak, they may need to be refitted.
- Bad Breath or Strange Taste: When food debris gets trapped beneath the denture, it can cause a bad taste in your mouth and a foul odor. This is a sign that they are not fitting properly, and you should see your dentist.
Dentures are a great option for people who are missing teeth, but it is extremely important to ensure that they are fitting properly. With proper maintenance and regular visits to your dentist in Coral Springs, you can reduce your chances of developing life-threatening conditions, like oral cancer.
About the Author
Dr. Walter K. Kulick earned his DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He is a member of both the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. For more information on dentures or to schedule an appointment at his office in Coral Springs, visit his website or call (954) 341-0500.