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Why Do My Bottom Dentures Come Loose When I Eat?

“Why do my bottom dentures come loose when I eat?” This question often plagues individuals who wear dentures on their lower jaw. The frustration of dealing with loose dentures while trying to enjoy a meal is a common experience.

Loose-fitting bottom dentures can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, making it difficult to chew food comfortably and causing embarrassment in social situations. Several factors contribute to the loosening of bottom dentures while eating.

In this blog, we will explore the various reasons why bottom dentures may become loose during eating and discuss potential solutions to this issue.

What are the Signs of a Loose Bottom Denture?

The signs of a loose denture include:

  • Difficulty speaking clearly.
  • Trouble eating comfortably.
  • Discomfort when opening the mouth wide.
  • Pain while using the denture.
Loose Denture

Several factors contribute to the looseness of lower dentures, with the main factor being the structure of the lower jaw. Unlike the upper jaw, the lower jaw lacks the ability to create a complete seal around the denture borders. It must accommodate the tongue and the up-and-down movement of the floor of the mouth. Additionally, the lower denture must be designed to withstand displacement by the gums along the sides of the cheeks, known as the vestibule.

Why do Bottom Dentures become Loose While Eating?

Following are the reasons why bottom dentures might become loose while eating:

Jawbone Changes: 

The jawbone undergoes a process called resorption, where it gradually diminishes in size and density over time, especially after tooth loss. This natural change alters the shape of the jaw, making it difficult for dentures to maintain a secure fit.

Saliva Production:

Saliva acts as a lubricant and helps create suction, which is essential for keeping dentures in place. Reduced saliva production, often associated with age or certain medications, can result in decreased adhesive strength and contribute to denture looseness.

Muscle Movement: 

The tongue and muscles in the lower jaw play an important role in chewing and swallowing food. During these activities, the movement of these muscles can exert force on the dentures, causing them to move or come loose.

Poor Fit or Alignment: 

Dentures that are poorly fitted or improperly aligned can lead to instability while eating. Even slight discrepancies in fit or alignment can result in discomfort and difficulty chewing, prompting the dentures to become loose.

Lack of Maintenance: 

Regular cleaning and proper maintenance of dentures are essential for preserving their integrity and fit. Neglecting proper hygiene practices can result in bacterial buildup, deterioration of the denture material, and ultimately, a compromised fit.

By addressing these factors, individuals experiencing issues with loose bottom dentures can explore solutions such as adjustments, relining, or considering alternative options like implant-supported dentures for enhanced stability and functionality.

How Can You Ensure Bottom Dentures Remain Stable While Eating?

To ensure that lower dentures remain stable while eating, consider the following tips:

  • Proper Fit: Ensure that your dentures fit well and are properly adjusted by your dentist. Ill-fitting dentures are more likely to become loose during eating.
  • Dental Adhesives: Use dental adhesives or denture adhesives as directed by your dentist to help keep the dentures in place. These adhesives create a bond between the dentures and the gums, providing additional stability.
  • Chew Slowly and Evenly: Chew your food slowly and nicely on both sides of your mouth to distribute the pressure evenly on the dentures. Avoid biting into hard or tough foods with excessive force.
  • Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: Limit the consumption of sticky or hard foods that can dislodge the dentures. Consume soft foods that are easier to chew and less likely to cause the dentures to become loose.
  • Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and re-adjustments to ensure that your dentures fit properly and comfortably. Your dentist can make any necessary adjustments to improve the stability of your dentures.
  • Proper Denture Care: Clean your dentures daily and store them properly when not in use. Proper denture care can help maintain their shape and fit over time, reducing the likelihood of them becoming loose while eating.

Conclusion

Understanding why you can’t bite down with braces is essential for managing discomfort and adjusting to your orthodontic treatment. Whether it’s due to the pressure of the braces settling in, the movement of your teeth, or other factors, it’s important to be patient and follow your orthodontist’s guidance throughout the process. With time and proper care, you’ll gradually adapt to your braces, and your bite will improve as your teeth move into their correct positions.

Ready to address your denture concerns and enjoy meals with confidence? Book an appointment online at Precision Dental, located in New Port Richey, FL. New patients can reach us at 727-219-1369 while existing patients can call at 727-494-7179.

Dental Bridge

Fixed, not removable

Costs an average of around $2,500+ depending on the type of material chosen and the number of teeth required- another factor is the type of bridge

Requires 2 or more appointments over the course of a few weeks

Usually requires replacement after about 10 to 15 years, may last about 10 with proper care and maintenance

Dental Implants

Fixed, not removable

Costs $5,000+ for a single implant and up to $60,000+ for full-mouth restoration. Hybrid options cost an average of $12,000 per arch

Requires multiple appointments over several months to a year or more

Implant screw should last a lifetime but the restoration may need to be replaced after about 20 years

FAQs

When you eat solid foods, chew slowly and evenly. This balanced chewing action helps to stabilize your dentures, and with time, it becomes a natural habit.

 Lower dentures may fail to stay in place due to insufficient bone width or height to support them. Additionally, misaligned denture teeth can contribute to the movement of the lower denture.

Here are some tips to keep dentures in place while eating:

  • Distribute your food evenly on both sides of the back of your mouth when you chew. This helps maintain stability and balance while eating with dentures.
  • Drink liquids with your meals to help moisten the food and facilitate easier chewing and swallowing.
  • Be cautious with sticky foods like whole-grain bread and cereal, as they may adhere to your dentures and cause discomfort or instability while eating.

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