Denture Problems All Senior Caregivers Should Know About
Posted on 1/15/2026 by Durham Prosthodontics Office
Taking care of someone who wears dentures can be tricky. As caregivers, we want to make sure our loved ones are comfortable and healthy. Dentures, which are removable replacements for missing teeth, can improve someone's quality of life, but they also require special attention. This article will discuss some common issues that denture wearers face, giving you the knowledge to provide the best possible support. It is intended to provide educational information about dentures and oral care.
Sore Spots and Irritation
One of the most frequent complaints from denture wearers is sore spots. Even well-fitting dentures can sometimes rub against the gums, causing irritation. This can be due to slight changes in the mouth's structure over time, or even from eating certain foods.
What to do: Encourage the denture wearer to tell you about any sore spots as soon as they appear. Small adjustments by a dentist specializing in restoration dentistry can often solve the problem. Over-the-counter denture adhesive may provide temporary relief, but it shouldn't be a long-term solution.
Difficulty Eating
New denture wearers often struggle with eating. It takes time to learn how to chew properly with dentures. Even experienced wearers may have problems with certain foods, like sticky or very hard items.
What to do: Suggest softer foods that are easier to manage. Cut food into smaller pieces. Encourage slow, deliberate chewing. If eating remains a significant problem, a dentist can assess the denture's fit and stability.
Denture Odor and Hygiene
Dentures can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors. Proper oral care is essential to maintain good hygiene and prevent bad breath.
What to do: Dentures should be cleaned daily with a denture brush and a denture cleaner. Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive and damage the denture surface. Dentures should be soaked overnight in a denture-cleaning solution to kill bacteria. Remember to also gently clean the gums and tongue with a soft brush to remove bacteria in the mouth.
Loose Dentures
Dentures that once fit snugly can become loose over time. This is because the bone and gum tissue in the mouth naturally shrink as we age. Loose dentures can cause discomfort, difficulty eating, and even affect speech.
What to do: If dentures are consistently loose, it's time to see a dentist. They can evaluate the fit and determine if a reline (adding new material to the denture base) or a new denture is needed.
Denture Damage
Dentures are durable, but they can be damaged by dropping them, biting on hard objects, or even from the normal wear and tear of daily use. Cracks, chips, or broken teeth on dentures can be painful and affect their function.
What to do: Never attempt to repair dentures yourself. Home repairs can damage the denture further and potentially harm the mouth. A dentist can properly repair or replace damaged dentures.
Oral Health Considerations
Even with dentures, maintaining good oral health is crucial. Gum disease and other oral health problems can still occur.
What to do: Regular dental check-ups are essential. The dentist can examine the mouth for any signs of disease and ensure the dentures are fitting properly. Encourage the denture wearer to continue brushing their gums and tongue, even if they no longer have natural teeth.
About Durham Prosthodontics | Durham, NC Durham Prosthodontics specializes in advanced restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, including implants and bridges. Schedule your consultation today! Dr. Geoffrey Cunningham and Dr. Kyle Gazdeck, 3709 University Dr Suite D, Durham, NC 27707 + (919) 489-8661 + mydurhamdentist.com + 1/22/2026 + Page Terms:dental implants Durham NC +
Taking care of someone who wears dentures can be tricky. As caregivers, we want to make sure our loved ones are comfortable and healthy. Dentures, which are removable replacements for missing teeth, can improve someone's quality of life, but they also require special attention. This article will discuss some common issues that denture wearers face, giving you the knowledge to provide the best possible support. It is intended to provide educational information about dentures and oral care.