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Where Can I Find a Soft Denture That Doesn’t Hurt My Palate?

Where Can I Find a Soft Denture That Doesn’t Hurt My Palate?

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Is there a soft denture with a flexible palate? The dentures I’ve had all have a hard palate that hurts the roof of my mouth. I’m looking for something more flexible and softer. – Thanks. Lydia from Yonkers, NY

Lydia,

Removable dentures can be uncomfortable. As you wear them over the years, it can be challenging to wear them.

What Is a Soft Denture?

When dentists mention “soft dentures,” they usually mean dentures with a soft lining. A soft lining can be helpful for individuals with bony ridges that traditional dentures irritate. Soft-lined dentures offer increased comfort but are more expensive, have a shorter lifespan, and require more diligent cleaning.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a completely soft, pliable denture option available. Complete dentures require a firm base for proper fit, function, and durability.

How Can You Improve Denture Comfort?

A palateless denture and a lower denture

A palateless denture is horseshoe shaped

Dental implants provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth, eliminating the need for a denture base covering the roof of your mouth. While more costly upfront, a palateless denture with implants offers a more natural feel, improved chewing ability, and prevents facial sagging associated with traditional dentures.

Talk to your dentist about your concerns or schedule a consultation with a prosthodontist about improving denture comfort and fit.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read how they strive to provide patients with some of the best dental care in San Antonio.

Why Has She Lost Two Teeth in One Day?

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two missing lower left teeth. Last month, the dentist placed two new fillings. Last Wednesday, she lost two more teeth lower tooth on the right side of her mouth. My aunt is 76 but self-conscious. I suspect she still has gum disease, although her dentist says he treated it, and she only goes twice a year for deep cleanings. I’m unsure whether she would get a dental bridge at her age or another partial. She has a limited budget. What are her possible options? – Thanks, Kassidy from NJ

 

Kassidy,

Your aunt needs immediate care from a gum disease specialist.

What Causes Multiple Tooth Loss?

Cu-Sil partial denture

A Cu-Sil partial denture
(image courtesy of Dental Arts Laboratory, Peoria, IL)

Advanced gum diseases cause multiple tooth loss. If your aunt recently lost two more teeth, she has advanced gum disease. We recommend scheduling an appointment with a periodontist (gum disease specialist). Although her dentist may think the gum disease is controlled, tooth loss means it’s out of control.

If your aunt’s remaining teeth are unstable and she has gum disease, a dental bridge is not an option. Natural teeth are the anchors for the replacement teeth in a dental bridge. However, the bridge stresses the anchor teeth, which would likely cause additional tooth loss for your aunt.

Dental implants are the ideal option for missing teeth but are too expensive for a limited budget. A periodontist must evaluate your aunt’s gum and bone health to determine which tooth replacement options are best and when to place them. A Cu-Sil partial may be an option. It is a partial denture to replace missing teeth. However, openings in the denture allow existing teeth to poke through.

See a periodontist for gum disease treatment. A prosthodontist (tooth replacement specialist) can collaborate with the periodontist to develop a treatment plan for replacing your aunt’s teeth at the optimal time. Meanwhile, the prosthodontist will explain options for temporary teeth replacement.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read how they strive to provide patients with some of the best dental care in San Antonio.

I’m Allergic to My Partial Denture But Can’t Afford a Bridge

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I got a partial denture last month to replace the lower left missing teeth. Something about the denture makes my lip and tongue burn on the left side of my mouth. I saw my dentist last week, and she said I am allergic to the plastic plate in the denture. She said that a dental bridge is an option. However, I cannot afford $4,300 for a bridge. I stopped wearing the denture, but my mouth and tongue still hurt. My dentist gave me a lidocaine solution to numb my mouth. That’s a temporary solution, but what can I do about my missing teeth since I can’t afford a bridge? Thanks. Krystle from NH

Krystle,

We are concerned about your allergic reaction and your dentist’s treatment option of a dental bridge as the only alternative to your partial denture. A lidocaine rinse that gives you 15 minutes of relief is not a solution to your symptoms.

What If You’re Allergic to Your Partial Denture?

If you are allergic to your partial denture, schedule an appointment with an allergist for testing. Give your dentist a list of the allergens. An experienced dentist can explain the denture materials available other than acrylic. Ask the allergist to test you for the materials to prevent another reaction and save you the time and expense of choosing options that might cause a reaction.

Valplast Partial Denture

Valplast denture

A Valplast denture is thermoplastic resin

A Valplast partial denture is a thermoplastic resin. The material is strong and more flexible than acrylic. Although we cannot find reports of Valplast allergic reactions, it is not impossible to be allergic to it. Some allergies are unusual.

Metal Partial Denture

Nickel is a common allergen. Other dental metals can cause allergies, too. Ensure you get allergy testing for the metals in a partial denture that your dentist may recommend,

Fixed Dental Bridge

Although a fixed dental bridge can replace missing teeth, if you cannot afford it, don’t feel pressured to go over budget to get it.

Consult a prosthodontist or cosmetic dentist to discuss your options for a partial denture. An allergist or your primary care doctor can help you get relief from the allergic reaction to your current denture.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.

How Can I Stop My Denture from Floating in My Mouth?

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I’ve spent the last ten years chasing floating dentures and trying more brands of adhesives than I can count. I am increasingly nervous about socializing because my denture falls out without warning. Are dental implants the only way to keep a denture in place? What are my alternatives? – thank you. Thomas N. from Austin

 

Thomas,

Many people share your concerns about dentures. We will explain why dentures float and what you can do about it.

Why Do Dentures Float?

A denture may float due to poor fit, the age of the denture, and bone shrinkage.

  1. Poor fit – A well-designed denture provides the best fit possible. This requires accurate impressions of your mouth, high-quality denture material, and proper lining. If a dentist overlooks any of these details, your dentures will fit poorly eventually and are more likely to float around in your mouth.
  2. Old dentures – How old are your dentures? Depending on your dentures’ quality, they should last at least five years. However, dentures must be maintained or regularly relined to prevent premature loosening. If you’ve had your dentures for years and years, it is probably time for a new set.
  3. Bone shrinkage – When all your teeth are missing, your jawbone shrinks. That’s because tooth roots stimulate bone and keep it intact. Over the years, your jawbone will progressively shrink. As your jawbone shrinks, your dentures will float in your mouth.

How Can You Stop a Denture from Floating?

You can stop dentures from floating with dental implants. However, if you cannot afford implant dentures, you can minimize the floating by getting quality denture materials and a denture that fits well from a prosthodontist, a tooth replacement and restoration specialist. Still, as you continue to wear dentures, your jawbone will shrink over the years, increasing the challenge of getting dentures that fit well. A prosthodontist or implant dentist will recommend dental implants.

How Do Dental Implants Stop a Denture from Floating?

A palateless denture and a lower denture

Dental implants support a palateless denture and increase your comfort

Dental implants stop a denture from floating in the following ways.

  • Dental implants fuse with your jawbone. Dental implants are titanium or zirconia replacement tooth roots. A prosthodontist or oral surgeon surgically places the implant screws in your jawbone. Three to four months after surgery, your jawbone and implants will fuse, providing a solid anchor for your dentures and preventing it from floating in your mouth.
  • The denture base attaches to the dental implants. A prosthodontist can make a custom denture that snaps or screw onto dental implants. Your dentures will be secure, making it impossible for them to float in your mouth.
  • Dental implants stimulate your jawbone. Dental implants stimulate your jawbone like tooth roots. Although you can get as few as two implants, more implants will stimulate a wider area of the bone. Your jawbone will continue to support your facial muscles and prevent premature facial sagging. If you have experienced jawbone shrinkage, you may need a bone graft before dental implants.

Successful dental implant placement and denture fit depend on the skill of the dentist or prosthodontist (denture specialist). A specialist or dentist with post-graduate training will ensure you get high-quality implants and dentures. Your palateless denture will be more comfortable and improve your ability to taste food while eating.

Schedule consultations with at least two implant dentists or prosthodontists to discuss your options.

 

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.

Will a Palateless Denture Work for Me?

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Will a palateless denture work for me? I’ve worn dentures for 10 years, and they have always been uncomfortable. The feel of the upper denture on the roof of my mouth is so annoying. I wish I could take the denture off when I eat, but then I couldn’t chew. I’m frustrated. I’ve been researching my options and wonder if a palateless denture would work for me or if it’s too late. Thanks. Akeel

Akeel,

Many denture wearers share your concerns.

What Is a Palateless Denture?

A palateless denture is a horseshoe-shaped upper denture that fits over your gums without covering your palate (roof of your mouth). It is less bulky than a complete denture.

Will a Palateless Denture Work for You?

A palateless denture may work for you if you have good oral health and have not experienced significant jawbone shrinkage, which occurs when all your teeth are missing. Shrinkage occurs because tooth roots and chewing stimulate the bone; without teeth, your body resorbs the bone. You may need bone grafting before you can get a palateless denture.

Types of Palateless Dentures

Palateless dentures are available with or without dental implants. Either option increases your ability to taste food. What are the differences?

Palateless dentures without dental implants

Palateless dentures are available without dental implants. However, your specialist will determine whether you can benefit from this option. How does it compare to an implant-supported denture?

  • Less stability than an implant-supported denture
  • Easy to dislodge from your gums, especially if you have experienced jawbone shrinkage
  • Requires dentures adhesives to stay in place
  • Does not stimulate the jawbone

Palateless dentures with dental implants

A palateless denture and a lower denture

A palateless denture fits better with dental implants

If you choose a palateless denture with dental implants, you can expect the following:

  • Much more stable than a denture without implants
  • May require bone grafting if you have significant jawbone shrinkage
  • No more sliding around or falling out because it is attached to dental implants
  • Stimulates the jawbone to prevent shrinkage

An exam and evaluation of your oral health will help a prosthodontist (tooth restoration and replacement specialist) determine whether you qualify for a palateless denture with or without dental implants. The specialist will explain your options and what to expect. Schedule a consultation with at least two prosthodontists to compare your options.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.

Can I Get My Implant Denture Teeth Replaced?

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I am disappointed with my snap-on denture. Can I get the denture teeth replaced? The implants fit well, but the denture teeth look fake, big, and bulky. I got the denture from a place that says I cannot get a refund. Is there any way to take the denture to another dentist to do something about the denture teeth? I am embarrassed to smile with this denture. I was looking forward to my denture not falling out, but now I do not mind if it falls out and crashes to the floor. Please excuse my rant. I do need some practical advice.  Thank you. Lena J.

Lena,

We are sorry to hear about your experience with your snap-on denture. Your current dentist cannot improve your denture based on what you described. Most dentists do not have the artistic talent to create a natural-looking denture. And to think that the place you visited refuses to give refunds. It sounds like they know that their work does not look natural.

Dentures from a Cosmetic Dentist

Advanced cosmetic dentists take several steps to ensure your denture fits your facial features and fits well in your mouth:

  • Talk with you about the look you want for your new smile
  • Take preliminary impressions of your mouth
  • Make a custom tray that fits your mouth only
  • Make a wax model for you to try in your mouth
  • Use high-quality or premium denture teeth that look real

Although you have no refund for your dentures, you can ask your dentist about replacing the denture teeth or the entire denture. If you cannot get a new denture from your dentist, consult an advanced cosmetic dentist to discuss your options. Depending on the denture condition and quality, a skilled prosthodontist may be able to use your denture base and replace the teeth, or you may need a new denture.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.

Teeth Fall Out and She Uses Krazy Glue to Put Them Back

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I started using krazy glue in February when my teeth started falling out. I regret it because of the fumes that make me sick, but I don’t know else what to do. I cannot afford a denture. I know the glue is messing up my gums. I feel stuck. Please help.

Our website administrator obtained this post from another client’s website.

Why Would Teeth Repeatedly Fall Out?

When a person has advanced gum disease or periodontitis, their teeth can repeatedly fall out without treatment. Gum disease destroys gums, teeth, and the bone supporting teeth.

Can You Glue Teeth Back in Place?

Krazy Glue or any other high-strength glue would hold only temporarily before the teeth move again. Commercial glues are not meant for internal use or withstanding the wet environment in a saliva-filled mouth. Also, the glue would further damage oral tissue.

Close-up picture of teeth with most of the roots exposed. Teeth will fall out without treatment.

Photograph courtesy of Dr. David Mastro, Roswell, GA

The woman who wrote about using Krazy Glue to put her teeth back felt hopeless. We included a photo on this page of a patient with advanced gum disease that is bad but not like the advanced stage that causes teeth to fall out.

In the photo, the patient’s lower four incisor teeth are almost loose enough to fall out. It has probably been years since the woman whose teeth are pictured saw a dentist. Imagine tooth roots showing, teeth hanging by their ligaments, and the desperation of a person who cannot afford dentures.

If someone cannot afford dentures, they can seek assistance from a local dental school, a free dental clinic, or social services. If teeth are unsavable, removable dentures would make a person look and feel better, improving their quality of life. It is worth contacting your local social services department for resources to find a dental clinic.

 

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Call our office for information about financing or payment plans to make getting dentures more affordable for you.

How Can I Safely Whiten My Dentures?

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Upper and lower dentures

How can I safely whiten my dentures without ruining them? I clean and soak them daily, but they look dull. Thanks. Walter

Walter,

Thank you for contacting 5 Star Dental Group in San Antonio. Dr. Tostado or Dr. Acuña would need to examine your dentures to determine the cause of stains or discoloration and recommend how to proceed. We will explain when and how you can whiten dentures.

How Can You Whiten Your Dentures?

You can whiten your denture with regular soaking and using denture cleaning products if they are not worn, old, or made with low-quality materials. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the following to keep your dentures white:

  • Follow the instructions for denture cleaning products
  • Develop a routine for cleaning your dentures
  • Select products with the ADA seal of approval to ensure they are effective

The Journal of Microbiology published an October 2018 article on the frequency of denture cleaning that confirms the following about regularly cleaning your dentures:

  • Reduces plaque buildup on denture teeth
  • Reduces plaque buildup on denture surfaces that fit your oral tissue
  • Requires a routine that includes soaking and brushing your dentures

Nonabrasive denture cleaning products

You can find nonabrasive denture cleansers in these forms:

  • Tablets
  • Pastes
  • Creams
  • Gels

Soaking dentures

Regularly soaking your dentures has the following benefits:

  • Reduces bacteria buildup on denture teeth, which can lead to stains or discoloration
  • Helps you maintain good oral health
  • Keeps your breath fresh

What If Your Dentures Still Look Dull?

If your dentures look dull despite thorough daily cleaning, speak with your dentist. Depending on the condition and age of your dentures, your dentist can polish yellow or stained dentures and help them look brighter. However, if your dentures are worn or old, you may need to replace them.

Schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist to examine your denture and determine if polishing them will improve the stains. Otherwise, the dentist may recommend replacing your dentures or denture teeth.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read how they strive to provide patients with some of the best dental care in San Antonio.

You may also read about the importance of denture fit in our post, My Dentures Are Leaving Sores on My Gums.

My Dentures Are Leaving Sores on My Gums

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My dentures are rubbing my gums and leaving sores. What is the best way to get dentures to fit correctly? My dentist tried to adjust the denture twice, but he really made things worse. I used sandpaper to trim the denture down, and that did help a bit but not perfectly. What can my dentist do to give me a better fit? Thanks, Chris P

Chris,

Thank you for contacting Dr. Tostado’s office. He or Dr. Acuña would need to examine your denture to determine why it’s rubbing on your gums, but we will explain the causes.

Why Do Dentures Rub on Your Gums?

A denture may rub on your gum for one of these reasons:

  1. Your jawbone is shrinking – When all your teeth are missing, your jawbone shrinks progressively. A denture that is not snug will rub on your gums.
  2. Food debris beneath the denture – Food particles can get trapped beneath a loose denture and irritate your gums.
  3. Damaged denture – Cracks or chips in a denture can irritate your gums and make them sore.
  4. Bacteria beneath the denture – Removing the denture and cleaning it daily prevent bacteria buildup that can cause inflammation and sores. For details, read our post about the results of wearing your denture overnight.
  5. Poor-fitting denture – If a denture fits too loosely or tightly, it can rub your gums.

What Is the Solution for Dentures That Rub Your Gums?

An upper and lower denture

Get a second opinion if your dentures continue to rub on and irritate your gums

The solution for dentures that rub on your gums depends on the cause. After an examination, a dentist may do more or one of the following:

  • Reline the denture
  • Adjust the denture
  • Give you suggestions for denture care
  • Take impressions of your mouth for a new denture

If your dentist cannot adjust your dentures, schedule a consultation with a prosthodontist or cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Dr. Tostado is a prosthodontist specializing in custom dentures.

Can I Sleep with My Denture In Overnight, Or Is It a Problem?

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Every time I go to the dentist, she asks me if I fall asleep with my dentures on. I must tell her yes because I usually sleep with them through the night. I don’t like how my mouth feels without them. My dentist said to me that it could cause problems with my gums. Is that true? Is sleeping in my dentures really a problem? Thanks. Wayne from Scottsdale, AZ

Wayne – Thank you for your question.

Can You Sleep with Your Denture In Overnight?

An upper and lower denture

Removing a denture before bedtime supports your oral health

Although you can sleep while wearing your dentures, you should not keep them on overnight. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Dental Research confirms it. The study, conducted by researchers in Japan (Nihon University’s School of Dentistry and Keio University’s School of Medicine in Tokyo), shows that people who wear dentures in their sleep have an increased risk of tongue and denture plaque buildup, as well as gum inflammation.

Researchers also found the following for people who consistently wear their dentures overnight:

  • Bacteria and pathogens that breed in the mouth from excessive denture-wearing can enter the airway and lead to aspiration pneumonia.
  • Older adults have a doubled risk of contracting pneumonia from overnight denture-wearing.
  • During the night, your saliva production decreases. The dry environment in your mouth promotes bacteria.

How Should You Clean Your Dentures?

You can clean and take care of your dentures with these steps:

  • Remove and thoroughly clean your dentures to remove food debris and plaque.
  • Clean your tongue and gums.
  • Regularly soak your dentures in a denture-cleaning solution.
  • When not wearing your dentures, store them in clean water or a mild denture-soaking solution.
  • Keep your regularly scheduled appointment with your dentist or prosthodontist to examine your denture for fit and function and ensure you are maintaining good oral health.

San Antonio prosthodontist Dr. Gilberto Tostado sponsors this post. A prosthodontist is a specialist with two to three years post-graduate training in tooth replacement and restoration, including dentures and dental implants.