X
Call Us: 318 323 9303
X
X
Image of smiling woman Image of smiling woman Image of smiling woman

Bayou Dental Group

Comprehensive Family Dentistry

and Award-Winning Smile Makeovers

Book an Appointment

What If My Denture Doesn’t Extend Back Far Enough?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I think my denture is too short because it doesn’t extend back far enough. When I eat, I can feel my gums where the wisdom teeth were. What should a dentist do about this? My dentist seems not to understand the issue when I describe it. I want to get a second opinion. Can you tell me what options another dentist might recommend? Thanks. Amy J from NJ

Amy,

Some discomfort is expected with removable dentures, especially early on. Still, persistent soreness may indicate design issues that a dentist can address.

How Far Should a Lower Denture Extend?

Dental impression trays for upper and lower dentures

Regular impression tray (upper photo)
Impression tray for lower teeth (lower photo)

A properly designed lower denture usually extends beyond the retromolar pad, which is past the former wisdom tooth area. Covering the retromolar pad provides a stable foundation. However, the goal is to avoid contact between the upper denture and the teeth during function.

What Should Happen During the First Dental Impression?

The preliminary dental impression sets the foundation for everything that follows. Dentists should use a stock tray designed for lower dentures, which extends farther than a standard tray.

To capture the full functional space, the dentist should guide soft tissue movement during the impression process.

  • Denture trays have posterior extensions designed to register the retromolar pad.
  • Recording more of the lower jaw generally improves denture stability and control.

How to Correct a Denture that Extends Too Far Back

Correcting a denture that extends too far back requires new impressions and additional lab steps. There may be factors unique to your anatomy that influenced the original design.

If you haven’t done so already, explain your dissatisfaction to your current dentist and that you want another dentist’s opinion. Your dentist may be willing to discuss giving you a partial refund.

The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Finley and his team strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.

What Can a Dentist Do to Fix My Floating Denture?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

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. My dentist has relined the denture so many times that I think it’s looser than ever. Will I need a new denture? – Thank you. Evan from NYC

Evan,

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 and gets stability from dental implants. Still, as you continue to wear dentures, your jawbone will shrink over the years, increasing the challenge of getting dentures that fit well.

How Do Dental Implants Stop a Denture from Floating?

A snap-on denture, which may be an option after controlling gum disease

A snap-on denture, which may be an option to stabilize a floating denture.

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. An implant dentist 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. An implant dentist can provide 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 dentist’s skill. A 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 to discuss your options.

 

The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Finley and his team strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Where Can I Get a Soft Denture for the Roof of My Mouth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My denture is so hard on the roof of my mouth. Where can I find a soft denture? Thanks. Jennie

 

Jennie

A palateless upper denture that snaps on and prevents gag reflex

Palateless upper denture

When referring to “soft dentures,” we mean dentures with a soft lining material. These are often recommended for patients with bony protrusions on the jaw ridge that can cause discomfort with traditional dentures. While softer linings can enhance comfort, they are more expensive, have a shorter lifespan, and require more diligent cleaning.

Currently, there are no commercially available complete dentures that are entirely pliable. A certain degree of rigidity in the denture base is necessary for proper fit and function, particularly when chewing. This information is important for patients to understand as it ensures they are confident in their treatment plan.

Implant-supported dentures are a more permanent and functional solution. This palateless denture does not cover the roof of your mouth because dental implants anchor the horseshoe-shaped replacement teeth. While the initial cost is higher, implant-supported dentures offer numerous benefits, including improved chewing efficiency, a more natural feel, and prevention of facial collapse associated with traditional dentures.

The Monroe, Louisiana, dentists at Bayou Dental Group sponsor this post. Please read how Dr. Finley and his team strive to offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.

What Are My Choices If I’m Allergic to My Partial Denture?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My dentist says I am allergic to the metal in my partial denture plate. She says my only option is to replace it with a $4,200 dental bridge. I got the partial last November to replace my bottom right first and second premolars. My tongue and beneath my tongue started burning within a few days. My lips burn, too. I told my dentist that I could not afford a dental bridge, so she gave me a lidocaine hydrochloride solution to rinse my mouth. It only numbs my mouth for 15 to 20 minutes, and the burning returns. I think that her solution is an insult. Is a bridge my only alternative? – Thanks. Gianna from TX

 

Gianna,

A lidocaine hydrochloride rinse does not resolve your concerns. Your dentist’s offer of a dental bride as the only solution to your reaction to a metal-based partial denture is unacceptable.

What Are the Alternatives to a Metal-Based Partial Denture?

Valplast partial dentures are non-metal

Metal-free Valplast partial denture

Acrylic or thermoplastic resin partial dentures are alternatives to a denture with a metal base. Valplast partial dentures are thermoplastic resin dentures and are more durable and flexible than acrylic. We cannot find reports of allergic reactions or sensitivities to thermoplastic resin, but we cannot say that the material is reaction-free.

Get Allergy Testing for Dental Materials

We suggest seeing an allergist for testing to determine which metals provoke a reaction and whether you may react to acrylic or thermoplastic resin. You can ask your dentist or another dentist for a list of the materials in an acrylic or thermoplastic resin denture to determine your sensitivities. If you know what causes a reaction, you can avoid those dental materials.

What Metals in a Partial Denture Can Cause a Reaction?

Nickel is a common allergen. Some people may react to oral appliances that contain cobalt, copper, or chromium. As mentioned, allergy testing is essential to help you identify and avoid potential triggers.

Should You Get a Fixed Dental Bridge or a Partial Denture?

Although a fixed dental bridge is a reliable alternative to a partial denture, don’t accept a bridge if you cannot afford it. A dental implant is the most effective way to replace a missing tooth, but it is also the most expensive option. A dentist who cares about your well-being and respects your preferences and decisions about what you can afford will explain your treatment options for dentures and the costs.

After your allergy testing, consider getting a second opinion from a skilled dentist to discuss your tooth replacement options. Read our related post about partial denture allergies.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

After 23 Extractions and Dentures, When Will My Face Collapse?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

After 23 extractions and dentures, when will my face collapse? I know it’s inevitable, but I want to anticipate it and save money for plastic surgery or whatever it takes. I am 52, so settling for a droopy face is not an option. Will implant dentures help a little, or will I need something more? – Thanks. Alonzo from Solon, OH

 

Alonzo,

We understand your concerns. However, we want to know why your dentist recommends removing all your remaining teeth. We don’t have details about your treatment plan, so did your dentist determine that none of your teeth can be saved? If so, we recommend getting a second opinion from a dentist who prefers to save natural teeth whenever possible.

When Does Facial Collapse Occur After Losing All Your Teeth?

If you have lost all your teeth, it takes about ten or twenty years for complete facial collapse to occur. Your body gradually resorbs the jawbone. However, dental implants can stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from shrinking. According to the Academy of Osseointegration, missing teeth result in vertical and horizontal jawbone loss. Getting implant dentures as soon as possible can minimize bone loss. If you must have extractions and dentures, talk to a dentist with advanced implant training about implant-supported dentures.

How Many Implants Do You Need for a Denture?

Photo of natural-looking upper and lower dentures.Four to eight dental implants can stabilize your denture while stimulating your jawbone. Four implants will stimulate the jawbone, but increasing the number of implants extends the area of stimulation. A snap-on denture can stay in place with two implants and improve denture function.

In contrast, a removable denture will initially support your facial muscles. However, dentures rest on your gums and bones, pressure them, and accelerate bone shrinkage. Nevertheless, removable dentures are better than living without any teeth because they support speech and chewing.

Schedule consultations with at least two implant dentists. An exam and X-rays will reveal your teeth and bone condition and whether you need 23 extractions or if a dentist can save some of your teeth.

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Am I Allergic to My New Dentures?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Pensive senior woman portraying concern over a possible allergy to denturesCould I be allergic to the new dentures I got last month? Could it be the acrylic or something else? I have new upper and lower dentures that fit better than any I’ve worn for the past 12 years, but I am worried about being allergic to them. After wearing the dentures all day, my eyes were swollen, and so were my glands. I removed and soaked the dentures overnight. On the second day, the swelling worsened. I don’t know why I wore the dentures a third day because I was miserable. I developed sinusitis, and my throat began to swell.

I figured I had allergy symptoms, so I stopped wearing the dentures and took Benadryl. I saw my ophthalmologist for what became an eye infection, and she agreed that my symptoms seemed to be related to an allergic reaction. I am embarrassed that I tried the dentures again and had the same eye, gland, and throat swelling symptoms. I’m finished trying to make the dentures work. Will I need a second opinion for new dentures? – Thanks. Bethany from CT

 

Bethany,

Yes, it sounds like you are allergic to your new dentures. Your decision not to wear them again is wise. Allergic reactions that cause swelling in your throat can be life-threatening.

What Should You Do If You’re Allergic to Dentures?

If you are allergic to your dentures, visit an allergist for testing. Identifying which materials in the denture cause a reaction can help your dentist to understand which materials to use or avoid when making your new denture.

Denture materials

  • Denture base – A denture base is processed from a liquid (monomer) acrylic that the lab hardens to make the denture base.
  • Hardening process – Hardening the acrylic changes it to a solid (polymer).

The process leaves leftover liquid (monomer) that can cause some patients’ reactions. If allergic testing reveals that you are allergic to liquid acrylic, a dental lab can immerse the denture in hot water for several hours. You can read details in a 2015 European Journal of Dentistry issue on allergic reactions to residual denture monomer.

An alternative is for your dentist to consult the dental laboratory to make your denture with a different material, such as resin. Although you are otherwise happy with your new denture, a new resin denture can prevent uncomfortable and potentially life-threatening allergic reactions.

Before getting a second opinion for new dentures, consult an allergist to identify which materials may be causing the allergic reaction and your symptoms.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Am I Too Old for Dentures with Implants?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Am I too old for dentures with implants? I am 73 years old and have worn dentures since I was 52.  My jawbone is thin and worn. My dentist relines my dentures often, but it doesn’t last long. My dentures click when I talk, so I have noticed people looking at my mouth rather than paying attention to what I am saying. I’m becoming more anxious and tired of the embarrassment. My dentist asked me to reconsider dental implants because I refused them three years ago, but is it worth it at my age? Thank you – Laurent, from Maine

Laurent,

One of our dentists would need to complete an exam and a 3D CT scan to determine your eligibility for dental implants, but we will answer your question in general.

Are You Too Old for Dentures with Implants?

You are not too old for dentures with dental implants if you have generally good health and are healthy enough for oral surgery. After missing teeth for many years, most of your jawbone will shrink. Bone shrinkage can prevent your denture from staying in place. You mentioned that your bone is thin, but you may still be an implant candidate. An implant dentist or oral surgeon will review your medical and dental histories. A 3D CT scan gives an implant dentist a thorough view of your oral anatomy and jawbone to determine your options for implant dentures.

Bone grafting

Diagram of a lower denture hovering over four dental implants in the jawbone.

You’re not too old for implant dentures if you have generally good physical and oral health.

An implant dentist can use natural or synthetic bone and graft it into your jawbone. In three to four months, your body will build bone to support dental implants. Two to six implants can support a denture. You will not have to worry about poor-fitting dentures again.

All-on-4 implants

If you have enough thickness in the jawbone toward the front of your mouth, you may be eligible for All-on-4 implants, a technique that minimizes the need for bone grafting. Your implant dentist will angle the rear implants to increase jawbone support.

Schedule an appointment with an experienced implant dentist to discuss your options for implant dentures.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Will Hybrid Dentures Work for Me?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

My dentures are worn out, and I have to use a lot of adhesives just to keep them on. I want cosmetic dentures this time because my current dentures are ugly. You notice certain things more when it involves you. Now that I am in the market for new dentures, I’ve heard the term hybrid dentures twice. Do they work better than implant dentures? Thanks. Bobbie

Bobbie –

Thank you for contacting Bayou Dental Group with your question about hybrid dentures.

What Is a Hybrid Denture?

A hybrid upper denture, which is palateless, available from Bayou Dental Group in Monroe

Hybrid dentures screw onto dental implants

A hybrid denture is a complete denture that is attached to dental implants. The term refers to combining two or more things. Hybrid dentures combine a complete denture with dental implants. Other words used to describe this process are implant-supported dentures, fixed dentures, or simply implant dentures.

What Are the Advantages of a Hybrid Denture?

A hybrid denture eliminates uncomfortable aspects of dentures, including slipping, clicking, or completely dislodging.

  • Denture function will improve, making it easier to speak and eat.
  • An upper hybrid denture is palateless, so you can enjoy the taste of food more than you can with a removable denture that covers your palate.
  • Dental implants anchored in your jawbone stimulate the bone, preventing shrinkage and premature facial sagging.
  • They fit better and look more like your natural teeth.
  • You will not need to remove them nightly for cleaning.
  • They are secure because they screw onto dental implants, preventing them from loosening and requiring you to use denture adhesive.

Are You a Candidate for a Hybrid Denture?

You may be a candidate for a hybrid denture if you have good oral and physical health. Even if you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes, you can still get dental implants if diabetes is well-controlled. After a comprehensive examination and a 3-D CT scan, a dentist will explain your options.

Look for a dentist with advanced dental implants and cosmetic dentistry training to get quality care and predictable results.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley, Dr. Thompson, and Dr. Coughran do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

 

How Can I Adjust My Denture at Home?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

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?

Photo of natural-looking upper and lower dentures.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.

 

How Can I Stop Gagging from My New Dentures and Adhesives?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

How can I stop gagging with my new denture and adhesives? I got new upper and lower dentures in early October. Whenever I wear the upper denture, I either gag from the denture or the adhesive. I still gag whether I use adhesive cream, strips, powder, or gel. My dentist says I should try different brands, but I am exhausted and can’t chew my food. I got dentures so I could eat again, not choke. How can I control gagging? Thank you. Sergey from IL

Sergey,

Thank you for your question. We understand your disappointment with receiving a denture that creates more concerns than it resolves.

Many people struggle with an active gag reflex while getting dental care or wearing dentures. We are concerned because your denture is new, and it seems you need adhesive to secure it. A new denture should fit well and not require adhesives. Dr. Finely, Dr. Thompson, or Dr. Coughran would need to examine your denture and mouth to identify why you are gagging. Still, we will offer insight into how a dentist can improve your experience with dentures.

How Can You Control Gagging from New Dentures and Adhesives?

You can control the gagging from new dentures and adhesives by asking your dentist to check your denture fit. Your dentist can do the following:

  • Verify whether your denture is too loose and causing you to gag
  • Determine why your denture fit makes you feel that you need adhesives
  • Determine whether the top of the denture against the roof of your mouth is triggering your gag reflex

After identifying the cause of your gagging, your dentist can adjust your denture fit or recommend a palateless denture that does not trigger your gag reflex.

What Is a Palateless Denture?

A palateless upper denture that snaps on and prevents gag reflex

Palateless upper denture

A palateless denture is a denture attached to dental implants. Unlike a removable upper denture that covers the roof of your mouth to create suction and keep it in place, a palateless denture leaves the roof of your mouth (palate) uncovered. A snap-on denture is an affordable option for stabilizing a denture with dental implants.

Researchers reviewed articles on implant overdentures published from 1991 to 2011. The studies show that implant dentures produce predictable results, including.

  • Enhanced stability
  • Improved function
  • A high degree of satisfaction compared to removable dentures

How Does a Snap-On Denture Work?

A snap-on denture works by attaching it to dental implants. An implant dentist or oral surgeon can surgically place implants through your gums and jawbone. After the implants fuse with your bone, the dentist will make a custom denture with a base that snaps onto the implants. If you have experienced jawbone shrinkage, you may need bone grafting before you get dental implants.

The benefits of a snap-on denture include:

  • It keeps the roof of your mouth uncovered to prevent gagging
  • Dental implants keep it in place and eliminate the need for denture adhesives
  • It will fit and feel better than a removable denture
  • You can eat comfortably

Get a second opinion if your dentist cannot resolve your concerns about gagging with your new denture. Schedule a consultation with an implant dentist to discuss your options for a denture that fits well and relieves your gagging.

Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. David Finley sponsors this post.

 

Contact Bayou Dental Group Contact Bayou Dental Group

Complete dental care
in one location

Call: 318 323 9303

Book an Appointment