Pressure points & denture

When dentures cause pain

Estimated reading time: 3.30 min.

A denture often makes life much easier - after all, you can finally chew properly again with the denture. However, the denture is also associated with an acclimatization period, during which you have to get used to the new foreign body. Especially in the beginning, a new denture can cause pain when chewing or press uncomfortably on the gums: The consequences are sometimes painful pressure points. Dentures or not, this does not have to be the case. There are a few ways you can avoid pressure points despite dentures and enjoy a beautiful smile at the same time.

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When dentures cause pressure points

When dentures are new, there is often a feeling of not having enough space in the oral cavity. In addition, there is increased salivation, tense jaw muscles and the fact that you have to practice speaking and eating with the dentures all over again, so to speak. Among the unpleasant accompanying symptoms, it also includes pressure sores. Dentures can cause painful sores or even inflammation on the gums or oral mucosa.

A denture is almost always associated with a period of acclimatization. Although the denture is molded from the patient's own jaw, the gums and tongue have to get used to the new replacement. Especially at this time, the denture may cause pain when chewing. Or the new denture may put uncomfortable pressure on certain areas.

What types of dentures cause pressure points

The type of discomfort varies depending on the denture: in the case of removable "thirds," a distinction is made between partial and full dentures. While a partial denture is attached to the remaining teeth, the full denture is held in place only by the suction between the gums and the denture. Another solution is telescopic dentures, where retaining clasps are placed on the remaining teeth for even loading.

It is not uncommon for partial, full, or telescopic dentures to be accompanied by pain. Often, especially with a full prosthesis, there are pressure points. These dentures require a particularly precise fit so that the chewing forces are transferred to the dentures without pressure points. If the suction effect is too strong or insufficient, the denture can cause pain when chewing and other complaints. The dentist can eliminate the pressure points of the denture by adjusting the denture properly. Especially the acclimation period of a denture is not pleasant, but it usually pays off.

How long does it take to get used to a denture?

Pressure points often accompany a new denture in particular. The acclimatization can take a few days. After the initial period, the discomfort often disappears by itself as the mouth gets used to the new situation. Usually a check-up is scheduled anyway, during which the dentist examines the fit of the prosthesis and adjusts it if necessary. If it is not enough to grind down the denture, the denture may be "relined" with new material.

What is relining of dentures?

"Relining" is a way to subsequently adjust a denture. In this way, pressure points caused by dentures or pain when chewing can be prevented. To do this, the dentist makes a new impression with the current denture. The denture is then filled or "relined" in the dental laboratory with the same or a softer material. The fitting ensures even loading and prevents denture pressure points.

How can I treat pressure points caused by dentures?

The treatment of pressure points caused by dentures depends primarily on the cause. Especially a new denture often presses or hurts at the beginning. If the denture pressure points do not disappear after getting used to them, you have to have them adjusted by a dentist. The same applies to dentures that no longer fit or are worn out after a change in the jaw.

In addition to a poor fit, lack of cleaning of the dentures can also be a cause. Food debris can not only cause pressure points, but also promote the spread of bacteria and lead to inflammation. Therefore, careful cleaning of the denture is essential.

If pressure marks have nevertheless been caused by dentures, they can be relieved with rinses made from chamomile and sage tea or with anti-inflammatory gels. Very hot, spicy or acidic foods and drinks should be avoided at first. They could further irritate the oral mucosa. If you have any complaints, you should generally have the fit of the prosthesis checked.

When pressure points only appear over time

But even if you have been wearing your denture for years, pressure points can occur. Our jaw and oral mucosa change over the years. In addition, the denture wears out. Pressure points or inflammations in the oral cavity occur even if the denture has served well for a long time. This is why regular check-ups at the dentist are especially important for denture wearers: There, the fit and hold are checked and denture pressure points are prevented in the first place. If necessary, the dentist will grind down the denture or "reline" it with new material.

The use of bonding agents should always be discussed with your dentist, because dentures can actually hold by themselves. If the denture no longer fits, it may be advisable to have a new one made.

Proper cleaning prevents pressure points on dentures

It is not only important that the denture fits the jaw and vice versa, but also that the denture and oral hygiene are correct. Remaining food residues can lead to pressure points under the denture. Inadequate cleaning also leaves more bacteria on the denture, which can promote various ailments such as gingivitis, oral thrush or bad breath. The denture should be cleaned with a hard toothbrush and, if necessary, dental floss or an interdental brush. Special cleaning agents are available for dentures.