Solutions for Common Denture Problems Springfield, IL
Dentures are more comfortable and helpful than ever before. However, there are still some common problems that many denture wearers experience. Proper denture care and diet can help keep the gums and mouth healthy and avoid irritation or infections.
Dentures are available at Modern Dental of Springfield in Springfield and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with solutions and tips to correct common denture problems. Call us at (217) 321-4552 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
What to Expect With Dentures
Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes. Denture wearers should expect diet changes and discomfort at first. These appliances are not as efficient at chewing as natural teeth and can cover the palate, which plays an important role in sensing flavors. This causes many denture wearers to gravitate towards more processed foods that are also naturally higher in fat, salt, and sugar. We recommend denture wearers eat a diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
When wearing dentures for the first time, it is normal to experience some soreness and discomfort. The University of Iowa's College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics states that it is not unusual for dentures to be relined or remade within six to eight weeks after tooth extraction. This will occur as the mouth muscles adjust and get used to the appliance. As people get used to their dentures, pain and discomfort will disappear, and they can resume their normal activities comfortably.
“Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes.”
What to Look out for When Wearing Dentures
The most important thing to do is keep the mouth clean and healthy. If patients find that their dentures are rubbing and causing sore spots, they should immediately see us for assessment and relining of the dentures. All patients, even those with no natural teeth, should get regular dental checkups at least twice a year.
If someone wearing dentures finds that the dentures' fit has changed significantly, they should make an appointment with our office to find the root cause of the changes. Shrinkage of the gums and jawbone is common when no longer supporting teeth; however, swelling and inflammation could be from an underlying health condition.
“Every patient, even those with no natural teeth, should get regular dental checkups at least twice per year.”
How To Travel with Dentures
Traveling with dentures for the first time, especially overnight, can be nerve-racking. An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time. In addition to having practiced the proper denture-care routine at home, the patient should:
- Research the destination’s water quality. If local water is questionable, patients can soak dentures in bottled water for the trip duration. An article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends choosing bottled water that has been treated for Cryptosporidium when traveling.
- Choose an appropriate denture case. A tight-fitting case protects dentures from bumps along the way. This prevents cracks, which could harbor bacteria. Some travel cases for dentures include brushes and mirrors for convenience.
- Consider investing in a second set of dentures. Although not necessary for most people, a set of backup dentures may occasionally save the day. For example, if the denture-wearer is traveling for a meeting or speaking engagement, having a second set of dentures may provide peace of mind. The same goes for a patient on an extended trip.
“An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time.”
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Eating With Dentures
As foreign devices, dentures insulate the gums from the hot and cold temperature of foods and beverages. Thus, as patients get more accustomed to dentures in their mouth, they may want to avoid foods that are particularly hot and cold. At the very least, they should check the temperature of such foods and beverages with their lips.
It can also be difficult to get accustomed to chewing with dentures. However, many patients find they benefit from cutting up their food into smaller pieces. This puts less stress on their jaws and dentures.
“As foreign devices, dentures insulate the gums from the hot and cold temperature of foods and beverages.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What should people expect when getting dentures?
Q. What should people be wary of when wearing dentures?
Q. What is the best way to travel with dentures?
Q. How should I adjust to eating with dentures?
Q. Do dentures cause oropharyngeal cancer?
People Also Ask
Q. What should I do if my dentures start to feel uncomfortable?
Q. How should new denture wearers change their eating practices?
Q. What lifestyle changes will people experience after getting dentures?
Q. What is the importance of seeing a dentist for denture repair?
Checking for Oropharyngeal Cancer
While dentures will not cause oral cancer, a combination of poor fit and poor hygiene for an extended period can cause irritation, infection, and inflammation associated with oral cancer. As such, it is imperative for patients to take proper care of their teeth at all times.
Modern Dental of Springfield can check for oropharyngeal cancer during a routine examination. The screening will begin with Modern Dental of Springfield examining the oral tissues, carefully checking the gums, inside of the cheeks, and tongue. The roof and floor of the mouth will also be examined.
“While dentures will not cause oral cancer, a combination of poor fit and poor hygiene for an extended period can cause irritation, infection, and inflammation associated with oral cancer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it easy to chew when wearing dentures?
A. Dentures restore part of a person's chewing capacity compared with having no teeth. However, a denture-wearer will not have the biting force of a person with a complete set of healthy, natural teeth. Chewing with dentures can be mastered with practice.
Q. How can I learn to speak clearly while wearing dentures?
A. Learning to speak clearly with dentures requires practice. It may take a few weeks, but it does get easier. For example, reading aloud is an effective way to practice. Speaking more slowly may also help a patient learn to enunciate while wearing dentures.
Q. What can I eat with dentures?
A. Foods that are not sticky or hard are usually preferred for denture-wearers. It is a good idea to avoid foods with small seeds or hard bits. Foods that have been cut into small pieces are easiest for a person with dentures to eat.
Q. How do I keep my dentures clean?
A. To keep a pair of dentures clean, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least once a day. It also helps to rinse them after eating. Soak them overnight in an appropriate solution to make sure they keep their shape.
Q. Where can I find more solutions for common denture problems?
A. The most reliable source of information about denture care and oral health is a dental professional such as Modern Dental of Springfield. If a patient experiences a problem with dentures, it may be an indication that it is time to visit the dentist. Always bring up any concerns and issues during an appointment.
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Denture Terminology
Call Us Today
Taking the right precautions and actions can combat common denture problems. Our team at Modern Dental of Springfield can help. Call us at 217-321-4552 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
About our business and website security
- Modern Dental of Springfield was established in 2001.
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- We serve patients from the following cities: Springfield, Curran, Chatham, Southern View, Grandview, Rochester, Jacksonville and Lincoln
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