Got Dentures? Here’s Why Dental Checkups Are Still a Priority

October 18, 2024

Patient with dentures getting a dental checkup

If you wear full dentures, you might wonder if regular dental checkups are still a necessity. After all, if you don’t have any teeth left, what’s the point of a checkup? As it turns out, there’s still plenty to be concerned about! This means regular dental visits are just as important for denture wearers as they are for those with natural teeth. Here’s why you should keep attending checkups, even if you have a full denture.

Preventing Gum and Soft Tissue Damage

Without natural teeth, plaque and bacteria can still build up on your gums and the surface of your prosthetics. This buildup can cause gum inflammation, bad breath, and other issues that, if left untreated, would require professional treatment.

Regular dental visits allow your dentist to clean your dentures, check your gum health, and recommend the best hygiene practices to prevent any issues. Keeping your gums healthy helps ensure your dentures stay comfortable and well-fitted.

Checking the Fit of Your Dentures

Over time, your jawbone and gum tissues can change, especially after tooth loss. These changes can cause your dentures to loosen slightly when you put them on. Over time this can lead to sore spots, abrasions, and irritation that can be difficult to deal with.

During a checkup, your dentist can assess the fit of your prosthetics and make adjustments as needed. This ensures that your dentures are properly fitted to your gumline, making chewing, speaking, and relaxing much easier.

Keeping Tabs on Your Jawbone Health

After tooth loss, the lack of stimulation from your roots can cause a gradual breakdown of bone in your jaw, a process called resorption. As your bone density decreases, it can affect both your facial structure and the stability of your prosthetics overall.

To prevent this, it’s important to see your dentist regularly so they can monitor any changes in your bone health. With quick diagnostics, they can make adjustments to your treatment plan or offer more comprehensive treatments like implant dentures to keep your jawbone intact.

Checking for Signs of Oral Cancer

Another very important reason to see your dentist regularly is to get oral cancer screenings. During your appointment, they can look for telltale signs like sores, white or red patches in your mouth, and numbness. By scheduling an appointment every six months, you increase your chances of early detection dramatically, often leading to better treatment outcomes.

So, while dentures replace natural teeth, they don’t replace the need for routine dental care! Regular checkups are still vital to your overall oral health strategy, allowing your dentist to consistently check your mouth and monitor your progress. Keep seeing your dentist, and if it’s been a while since your last checkup, call them today!

About the Practice

At Center For Advanced Cosmetic Dentistry, we love helping our patients support a healthy, comfortable smile. Whether you have natural teeth, dentures, or both, our team of dental experts offers comprehensive checkups and personalized care to keep your oral health in peak condition. Ready to make your smile sensational? Call (609) 561-0058 to schedule a checkup and cleaning with us or visit our website to learn more about other services.