Lower dentures are an essential solution for individuals who have lost teeth in the lower jaw. They help restore your ability to chew, speak clearly, and maintain a confident smile. However, their effectiveness depends largely on how well they fit and function. Poorly fitting dentures can cause discomfort, sores, and difficulties with daily activities. Understanding how lower dentures should fit and how to care for them is key to maintaining good oral health.
For those seeking professional care, Peridot Dental Care is one of the most trusted dental clinics in Woodbridge. Located at 6175 Highway 7 West, Unit 7, Woodbridge, Ontario, their team specializes in denture care and oral health services.
Why Proper Lower Denture Fit Is Important
The lower jaw is more mobile than the upper jaw, which makes lower dentures more prone to movement. Proper fit is essential to prevent slipping, rubbing, and pain. Well-fitted dentures support your facial structure and protect your gums from irritation or injury.
Many patients visit a Dental Clinic in Woodbridge for regular denture checkups to ensure their dentures remain comfortable and functional over time.
A professional Dentist in Woodbridge can examine your dentures, assess how they sit, and make adjustments for better comfort and stability.
Some people also consider aesthetic options such as Dental Veneers in Woodbridge to improve the appearance of their smile while ensuring proper alignment with their dentures.
How Lower Dentures Should Feel
Properly fitted lower dentures should feel secure without causing pain. They should rest evenly on the gums, applying mild pressure but not creating sore spots.
Speaking should be clear without clicking sounds, and chewing should be comfortable. While some slight movement is normal, dentures should not lift or slip constantly.
Patients who visit Peridot Dental Care often report improved comfort after professional adjustments. Dentists focus on balancing function and stability so dentures feel natural during daily activities.
Signs of a Proper Fit
Here are some signs that indicate your lower dentures fit correctly:
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No persistent pain or sores
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Ability to eat a variety of foods comfortably
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Clear speech without difficulty
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Dentures stay in place during daily tasks
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Healthy gums without redness or swelling
Regular dental visits help maintain these signs. A trusted Dentist in Woodbridge can also guide you on additional cosmetic treatments, like Teeth whitening in Woodbridge, to complement your dentures and enhance your smile.
Common Problems with Poorly Fitted Lower Dentures
When dentures do not fit properly, several issues may arise:
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Gum irritation or sores
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Difficulty eating or speaking
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Jaw pain or headaches
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Denture slipping in social situations
Seeing a dental professional early can prevent long-term problems. Proper adjustments and ongoing care keep your dentures functional and comfortable.
How Dentists Ensure a Good Fit
Dentists follow specific steps to ensure lower dentures fit properly:
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Impressions – Accurate molds of your mouth are taken.
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Denture Base Shaping – The denture is shaped to match your gums precisely.
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Bite Alignment Check – Ensures even pressure while chewing.
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Follow-up Adjustments – Fine-tuning is done based on patient feedback.
These steps help maintain denture comfort, function, and long-term oral health.
Adjusting to New Lower Dentures
Getting used to new lower dentures can take time. Initially, they may feel bulky or unusual. Your tongue and cheek muscles need to adapt to holding them in place.
Start with soft foods and practice speaking slowly. Wearing your dentures as instructed by your dentist will help you adjust faster. Persistent discomfort beyond a few days should be addressed with a dental visit.
Caring for Your Lower Dentures
Proper care ensures dentures remain comfortable and functional:
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Clean dentures daily to remove food debris and bacteria
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Remove dentures at night to allow gums to rest
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Store dentures properly to avoid warping
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Schedule regular dental checkups to ensure fit and health
With proper care, your dentures can provide years of comfort and stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should lower dentures move while talking or eating?
A small amount of movement is normal, but constant slipping is not. Properly fitted dentures should feel stable.
2. Is mild discomfort normal with new dentures?
Mild pressure may occur initially, but ongoing pain or sores need professional evaluation.
3. How often should dentures be checked or adjusted?
Initial adjustments may be needed in the first few weeks. After that, occasional checkups help maintain fit.
4. Can eating hard or sticky foods affect denture fit?
Yes. Avoiding very hard or sticky foods helps keep dentures stable and comfortable.
5. When should dentures be replaced?
Dentures usually need replacement after several years depending on wear and changes in your mouth.
Conclusion
Lower dentures play a vital role in comfort, function, and oral health. Well-fitted dentures allow you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Regular dental visits, professional adjustments, and proper care ensure your dentures remain comfortable and functional for years. Choosing a trusted dental clinic ensures your oral health and overall confidence are maintained.