Dentures are supposed to be a reliable form of tooth replacement. They should fit snugly but comfortably in your mouth, and they should remain secure as you eat and speak throughout the day. But what if your lower denture keeps slipping out of place? That can be frustrating! What causes this issue, and what can you do about it? Continue reading to discover practical information.

Why a Lower Denture May Slip

Many factors could cause your lower denture to slip out of place, including the following:

• Bone Loss in the Lower Jaw: When you lose natural teeth, the bone in your lower jaw can gradually shrink over time. This loss of structure reduces the surface area that the denture can rest on, making it more likely to shift or move.
• Poor Fit Due to Wear: Dentures can wear down or change shape with daily use. As a result, your denture may no longer match the contours of your gums, leading to slipping and discomfort.
• Insufficient Saliva Production: Saliva acts as a natural adhesive between your gums and the denture. If your mouth is dry, your denture may not stay in place as well as it should.
• Muscle Movement and Tongue Pressure: Speaking and eating require your tongue and facial muscles to move constantly. These movements can dislodge a lower denture, especially if it does not fit perfectly.
• Incorrect Denture Design: If your denture was not designed to match your mouth’s unique anatomy, it may not stay in place.

Even if your denture is well-made and fits your mouth perfectly, it still might slip occasionally. This is especially likely if you are new to using it and have not yet adapted to it.

Solutions for a Slipping Lower Denture

What can you do about a slipping lower denture? These strategies might help:

• Denture Adjustment or Relining: A dental professional can reshape the underside of your denture to fit your gums more closely. This process provides a better fit and reduces movement during daily activities.
• Use of Denture Adhesive: Special adhesives are available to enhance the grip between your gum and your denture. Although adhesive will not make up for a poorly fitting denture, it can provide a more secure fit.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Scheduling routine visits allows your dentist to monitor your oral health and the fit of your denture. Early adjustments can address minor issues before they become major problems.
• Moisturizing Your Mouth: Drinking water regularly and using products designed to increase saliva can help keep your mouth moist. A well-lubricated mouth improves the natural suction that holds your denture in place.
• Replacing Your Denture: If your denture is old, poorly made, or damaged, you might need to replace it in order to achieve a reliable fit.
• Dental Implants for Denture Support: Implants can anchor your lower denture directly to your jaw, preventing it from slipping. Implant dentures offer the highest level of stability and can improve your ability to chew and speak.

A slipping lower denture is annoying! Take practical steps to address the issue so you can start smiling, speaking, and eating with new confidence.

Meet the Practice

At Abington Family Dental Care, we proudly provide top-quality services in a welcoming environment. We offer traditional dentures, implant dentures, and denture maintenance services. If you have questions about how to get the most out of your prosthetic, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our office at 781-780-2658.