Common Questions About Dentures

The average senior over age 65 has 19 natural teeth remaining. Approximately 27 percent of seniors have no remaining natural teeth. This means that a large number of seniors are faced with the possibility of having to get either full or partial dentures. The following are common questions that seniors and their caregivers may have about dentures and how to care for them.

Q: Do dentures affect the sense of taste?

A: All of our taste buds are located on our tongue, so dentures should not impact the ability to taste food.

Q: Is it hard to eat with dentures?

A: It can take several months to get used to eating certain foods while wearing dentures. Foods like apples or corn on the cob that require biting with the front teeth are the most problematic. To make things easier, you should cut foods into small pieces and push food to the side instead of biting with the front teeth. It is also a good idea to practice eating your favorite foods at home before eating them in public to avoid potential embarrassment.

Q: Is it hard to speak with dentures?

A: Dentures do force the tongue into a different position than natural teeth. This can result in a whistling or hissing sound when pronouncing certain letters. An easy way to retrain the tongue and get used to speaking with dentures is to practice reading out loud for the first few days.

Q: Is it normal for dentures to cause sore spots?

A: It is common for new dentures to cause sore spots during the first few weeks. The soreness typically goes away once the dentures “settle” and the gums adjust to the pressure. If the soreness does not improve, it is important to see the denturist and have the dentures adjusted.

Q: How long do dentures last?

A: Most dentures last an average of five years. After that time, normal wear and tear can affect the alignment and occlusion, which can make it difficult to chew.

Q: Do dentures have to be adjusted periodically?

A: Yes. The gums can change with time. These changes can cause dentures that used to fit properly to become too loose. Dentures should be relined every two years to compensate for changes in the mouth and gums and ensure a proper fit.

Q: What is the proper way to clean dentures?

A: You can use any over-the-counter denture cleaner that bears the American Dental Associate seal of approval. You should avoid using traditional toothpaste on dentures. Toothpaste is very abrasive and can damage the surface of the dentures. You should also make sure you put a towel in the bottom of the sink to prevent damaging the dentures if you should drop them during cleaning.

Content By: Home Care Phoenix