I got a new upper denture in March 2022. Getting used to it was horrible, but I adjusted by August. Now I feel sore again near the back left of my mouth whenever I wear the denture. I thought it would go away, but the soreness is increasing. I have a 1.5-hour drive to my dentist and am trying to meet a work deadline by 2/15. I have a large inventory of tools at home. Can I adjust the denture myself? Thanks. Jeff
Hi Jeff,
Thank you for your question. Like many people, you want to do as much as possible for yourself. But we caution patients who try to adjust their dentures.
How Can You Adjust Your Denture?
You cannot adjust your denture without risks. Your dentist’s tools can target and tweak small areas without damage. Dentures are acrylic resin and require dental burs and specialized tools for adjustments without breaking them.
An upper denture’s palate creates suction to keep the denture secure. Also, the denture is custom fit for your mouth. If you overadjust the denture, it may never fit well again, affecting your bite.
Denture repair at home can cause these problems with your denture:
- Too loose
- Too thin in areas
- Breakage
- Require relining
- Require a new denture
Why Are Your Dentures Causing Soreness?
A denture may cause soreness because your gum tissue and bone change as you wear it. Your denture will not fit as well, so your dentist needs to adjust it. Open sores can develop in the gum tissue without adjustment and cause infection.
Allow a Dentist to Adjust Your Denture
Even if you cannot travel over an hour to see your dentist, look for a skilled dentist who may be closer to home or work. Otherwise, the drive to your dentist is worth it to prevent you from damaging your denture and needing a replacement, which will become even more inconvenient. Call your dentist’s office and speak to them about your concerns. Your dentist may suggest how to get a reliable adjustment elsewhere or advise you to come to the office despite the inconvenience.
The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Henderson, Dr. Finley, and Dr. Coughran strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.
