I’m 40 years old and stuck with dentures. I hate how they feel on the upper part. Is there any way to get a soft denture?
Alicia
Dear Alicia,
When you hear the term soft denture, it actually is referring to a soft liner. This is usually available for patients with a bumps on their bony ridges. There is a pliable soft denture as a whole if that is what you are thinking. The soft liners will make your dentures more comfortable. You should be aware that they are harder to clean and don’t last as long, so will require replacing. If you’re okay with that, you will find they help with the discomfort.
You said you’re 40 years old. That is awfully young to be in full dentures. I know there are things in life which are quite beyond our control. However, I want to be certain your dentist sufficiently warned you about the dangers of having dentures at such a young age.
When your teeth were removed, your body recognizes that. As a result, it perceives you don’t need your jawbone to retain your teeth roots. IN an effort to be efficient with its resources, it begins to resorb the minerals in your jawbone to use elsewhere in your body.
This has the unfortunate effect of shrinking your jawbone. Eventually, it will shrink so much, you won’t have enough jawbone left to support your dentures. This is known as facial collapse.
How to Prevent Facial Collapse with Dentures
I’m going to suggest you look into getting implant overdentures. These use four to six dental implants, which are placed into your jawbone. Then, after a period of healing, your dentures will be anchored to them.
Because the dental implants serve as prosthetic tooth roots, your brain realizes you still have need of your jawbone. Because of that, it leaves the minerals intact, thereby preserving your jawbone.
You’ll also find another lovely benefit. Even the best fitting dentures, reduce your chewing capacity by 50%. Having implants placed will increase your chewing capacity giving you a more pleasant life experience.
This blog is brought to you by Lexington, KY Dentist Dr. John Weaver.
