Denture Adjustments in Vancouver, WA
Denture adjustments are a necessary part of long-term denture use. At Advanced Denture & Implant in Vancouver, WA, this service is available to patients experiencing discomfort, shifting, or instability with their existing dentures. Adjustments are designed to fine-tune the fit, reduce sore spots, and improve alignment without requiring a full reline or replacement.
Even well-made dentures can become uncomfortable over time. The shape of the mouth naturally changes due to bone resorption, gum shrinkage, and general wear. These changes can lead to areas of pressure, looseness, or difficulty chewing. Minor adjustments can address these issues quickly, helping patients regain a secure and balanced fit.
Regular check-ins and timely adjustments are essential to ensuring the long-term comfort and function of both full and partial dentures.
Why Denture Adjustments Are Needed
Dentures are made to fit snugly against the gums and replicate the natural bite. However, as the tissues in the mouth evolve, the original fit of the denture may no longer align with the underlying anatomy. This often results in one or more of the following problems:
- Sore spots or irritation
- Slipping or movement while eating or speaking
- Difficulty chewing on one side
- Clicking or clacking sounds
- Uneven pressure distribution
In addition to natural anatomical changes, lifestyle habits such as nighttime clenching or improper cleaning may also affect the fit. Adjustments help relieve high-pressure points, reshape contact areas, and restore balance to the bite.
At Advanced Denture & Implant, adjustments are tailored to the specific issue a patient is experiencing. This ensures that each visit results in measurable improvements in comfort and function.
What Happens During a Denture Adjustment
The adjustment process begins with an in-office evaluation. The denturist will ask about any discomfort, sore areas, or recent changes in fit. A visual inspection and tactile exam of the denture help identify areas of overextension, uneven contact, or pressure spots.
Once the issue is identified, material from the denture’s interior may be gently reduced or reshaped to relieve the problem area. In some cases, minor adjustments are made to the bite surfaces to improve alignment and chewing efficiency.
For patients with frequent sore spots or a history of difficult adjustments, a pressure-indicating paste may be used to detect exactly where the denture is applying excess force to the gums. These areas can then be modified with precision tools.
Most denture adjustments are completed in a single visit, and no anesthesia is required. Patients can typically resume wearing their denture immediately after the adjustment.
Signs You May Need a Denture Adjustment
Knowing when to seek a professional adjustment can prevent complications and extend the life of the denture. Common indicators include:
- Persistent gum soreness in one or more areas
- A denture that moves or rocks when talking or eating
- Pain or discomfort when biting down
- Difficulty pronouncing certain words
- Visible red or inflamed spots under the denture
Patients are encouraged not to attempt DIY fixes, as filing or bending denture material at home can damage the structure and make the issue worse. Professional denture adjustments ensure that the appliance retains its integrity and remains safe for long-term use.
Maintaining Comfort After Adjustments
After an adjustment, some patients may notice immediate relief, while others may require a short period of readjustment. It’s common to schedule follow-up visits to ensure that the denture continues to fit properly as the mouth adapts.
In some cases, especially if multiple adjustments have been made over time, a reline or a new denture may eventually be recommended. However, routine adjustments often help extend the appliance’s usability and delay the need for replacement.
Patients should continue their regular cleaning routine and return for professional evaluations at least once a year to assess fit and function.
If your denture no longer feels comfortable or stable, schedule a denture adjustment at Advanced Denture & Implant in Vancouver, WA. Restore the proper fit and feel of your denture with professional, in-office care that targets the source of discomfort.
