Many people assume that once they have full dentures, they no longer need to see the dentist regularly. After all, if there are no natural teeth left to care for, what’s the point of a dental checkup? It’s a common misconception and a potentially harmful one. Regular dental visits remain essential, even for those with complete dentures. Read on to learn why.
Oral Health is More Than Just Teeth
Dentistry isn’t just about maintaining teeth – it’s about your entire oral health. Your gums, tongue, palate, and jawbone all play crucial roles in your overall well-being. A dentist checks these areas during a dental visit to ensure everything is functioning properly and to identify early signs of disease or other health issues.
Oral cancer, for instance, can develop in the soft tissues of your mouth regardless of whether you have teeth. Regular dental exams increase the chances of catching such conditions early, when they are most treatable.
Denture Fit Changes Over Time
Your mouth isn’t static. Over time, your jawbone naturally shrinks and changes shape due to the lack of stimulation that natural teeth provide. This gradual bone resorption can cause your dentures to loosen, resulting in discomfort, sore spots, and difficulty speaking or eating.
A dentist can assess the fit of your dentures at each visit and recommend adjustments or relines to ensure they remain comfortable and functional. Ill-fitting dentures not only cause physical irritation but may also lead to nutritional problems if they impair your ability to chew properly.
Prevention of Infections and Irritation
Even though dentures replace your teeth, they can still harbor bacteria and cause infections. Poorly cleaned dentures or constant irritation can contribute to these conditions. During a checkup, a dentist will examine your mouth for signs of infection and provide guidance on proper denture hygiene.
Peace of Mind and Professional Support
Having regular dental appointments provides peace of mind. You can ask questions about your dentures, discuss any concerns, and receive expert advice on maintenance and oral care. Your dentist can also assess whether your dentures are still meeting your needs or if it’s time for a replacement, typically recommended every 5 to 10 years.
Connection to Overall Health
Oral health is closely linked to systemic health. Conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and even cardiovascular disease can have oral symptoms. Regular dental visits provide an extra layer of monitoring for your general health. Your dentist may be among the first to notice signs that something else might be wrong.
Just because you wear full dentures doesn’t mean you should skip the dentist. In fact, maintaining regular checkups becomes even more important to monitor changes in your oral health, ensure a proper denture fit, and detect any potential issues early. Think of your dental appointments as a vital part of your overall healthcare routine!
About the Practice
Whether you’re considering a full denture or you just need a routine checkup and cleaning, Brown & Nawrocki Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry can see to all your needs. We offer partial, full, implant, and immediate dentures, and our expert team of professionals will give you the personalized attention and detailed care that our practice has come to be known for. Schedule your appointment today online or call our Ormond Beach office at (386) 677-1046.