Dentures are one of the most popular ways to replace missing teeth. However, there are still several misconceptions about them despite how common they are. For instance, some people think that you don’t need to visit a dentist regularly if you wear full dentures. Well, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Even if you don’t have any remaining natural teeth, there are many reasons why you should continue to see your dentist every six months. Read on to learn more about the importance of regular dental checkups with dentures.
Maintain a Healthy Smile
Regardless of how many teeth you have left in your mouth, it’s crucial to stay on top of your oral hygiene. Taking proper care of your smile is essential to ward off oral health problems like cavities, decay, and gum disease. Even patients who wear full dentures are at risk of these dental issues! Additionally, the prosthetics themselves are vulnerable to plaque buildup and need a professional cleaning every six months.
Early Detection of Oral Health Issues
Visiting your dentist every six months allows them to monitor your oral health and ensure no problems are developing. They’ll perform a thorough examination at every appointment to detect issues like gum disease or oral cancer. Some evidence suggests denture-wearers are at an increased risk of oral cancer, which is why they need to see a dentist regularly. By addressing any issues early on, you can avoid experiencing severe complications down the line.
Adjust the Fit of Your Dentures
Over time, the shape of your jawbone and the soft tissues in your mouth will change. These shifts can alter your bite and throw off the fit of your dentures, contributing to discomfort and an increased risk of certain health issues (i.e., gum disease, sores, TMJ, sleep apnea, poor nutrition). It’s completely normal for dentures to need fitting adjustments every few months. If your oral appliances feel uncomfortable at any time, you should contact your dentist right away as you may need an adjustment sooner than expected.
Prolong the Lifespan of Your Dentures
By visiting your dentist every six months, you can have peace of mind knowing your dentures are regularly checked for signs of damage or other underlying problems. That way, your dentist can adjust or repair your oral appliances as needed to maintain their functionality. Best of all, you’ll learn how to properly care for your new smile and help it last as long as possible!
Routine dental checkups are crucial for maintaining good oral health, regardless of how many natural teeth you have left. If you wear dentures, be sure to contact your dentist and talk to them about scheduling regular preventive care!
About the Practice
At Winning Smile Dental Group, we provide exceptional and comprehensive dental services to help every patient achieve and maintain optimal oral health. From your child’s first checkup to grandpa’s tooth-replacement procedure, we’ve got everything your family needs in one convenient location. If you wear dentures and need to schedule a routine checkup, visit our website or call (847) 350-1697.