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How Do I Fix Loose Dentures?

Valerie Goldberg
Valerie Goldberg

If you have lost some or all of your natural teeth and now use dentures, it can be a scary scenario when your dentures become loose. Loose dentures can cause you problems when it comes to eating, speaking and socializing. There are a few options available when it comes to fixing loose dentures. These options include using powders, using pastes or taking a trip to the dentist to get a more long-term fix.

Buying an adhesive powder at a drug store is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to fix your loose dentures. When you purchase an adhesive powder, it is important to read the directions on the box and to clean your dentures the way your dentist has instructed you before starting the powder application process. After your dentures are clean, you will need to wet your dentures with water and apply the amount of powder that the instructions recommend. You will then need to shake your dentures gently to get rid of any extra powder and place them back into your mouth. One drawback to this fix is that it might need to be done everyday or every other day to be effective.

Partial dentures.
Partial dentures.

Another over-the-counter treatment for loose dentures is denture paste. Denture paste might cost a little more than the powder, but it can be worth it, because you might consider it easier to use. After your dentures are removed from your mouth and clean, apply the paste lightly along both your upper and lower gum lines. Promptly stick the dentures back into place in your mouth, and you should be all set. If you accidentally used too much paste, some extra might look like it is leaking out of your gum line, but it can be easily cleaned off by drinking seltzer or using a cloth.

Dentures are prosthetic teeth worn by those who have lost their natural teeth.
Dentures are prosthetic teeth worn by those who have lost their natural teeth.

If you try an at-home treatment and your loose dentures are still bothering you, it is best to call your dentist. Some dentists offer state-of-the-art ways to fix loose dentures, such as inserting dental snaps into the jaw to help with placement or adding an air valve to the existing dentures, which can help make them fight tighter again. If your dentures are extremely damaged or your gums are excessively receded, you might have to be fitted for a new pair of dentures. It is vital to visit your dentist once or twice a year, because some gum recession is normal and your dentist can keep an eye on how yours are progressing and how your dentures are fitting. It's important to follow all of the proper steps for denture care so that you do not accidentally cause any harm to your dentures that might result in a loose fit.

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    • Partial dentures.
      By: Haider Azim
      Partial dentures.
    • Dentures are prosthetic teeth worn by those who have lost their natural teeth.
      By: Saskia Massink
      Dentures are prosthetic teeth worn by those who have lost their natural teeth.
    • A dentist may be able to adjust the abutment to tighten the fit of partial dentures.
      By: milosljubicic
      A dentist may be able to adjust the abutment to tighten the fit of partial dentures.
    • Loose dentures may cause discomfort.
      By: JanMika
      Loose dentures may cause discomfort.
    • Dentures must be fitted by dental professionals.
      By: Andrey Kiselev
      Dentures must be fitted by dental professionals.
    • Wearing ill-fitting dentures can increase air intake and cause flatulence.
      By: Minerva Studio
      Wearing ill-fitting dentures can increase air intake and cause flatulence.
    • X-rays may help evaluate the oral health of a patient receiving dentures.
      By: Andrey Armyagov
      X-rays may help evaluate the oral health of a patient receiving dentures.
    • With proper maintenance of oral hygiene, a set of dentures may last for many years.
      By: pressmaster
      With proper maintenance of oral hygiene, a set of dentures may last for many years.
    • Minor adjustments may be necessary in the first few weeks of wearing dentures.
      By: chalabala
      Minor adjustments may be necessary in the first few weeks of wearing dentures.