Many denture wearers find themselves wondering, “Why do dentures hurt sometimes?” even after proper fitting and adjustment. While dentures are designed to restore function and improve quality of life, discomfort can still occur from time to time. This pain may be a result of several factors including poor fit, gum irritation, pressure points, or even improper care. Understanding the root causes of Teeth Dentures In Dubai discomfort is key to addressing it effectively and ensuring a better overall experience.
Poor Fit and Jawbone Changes:
One of the most common reasons dentures hurt is that they no longer fit properly. Over time, the jawbone naturally shrinks after tooth loss, which can cause your dentures to loosen and rub against your gums. This ongoing change affects how dentures sit in the mouth. Common signs of poor fit include:
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Slipping or rocking of the denture during eating or speaking
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Sore spots where the denture rubs against sensitive tissues
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Visible gaps between the denture and gumline
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Frequent need for adhesive to keep dentures in place
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Gum inflammation or tenderness that worsens with wear
A reline or professional adjustment can usually resolve these issues and improve comfort significantly.
Gum Irritation and Sores:
Gum irritation is another frequent cause of denture pain, especially when wearing new dentures or after recent adjustments. The pressure from the denture base can create friction or pressure points, leading to painful sores or inflammation. Gum discomfort may also result from food particles getting trapped. This often appears as:
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Red, inflamed tissue, especially under the denture
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Burning sensation, particularly with upper dentures
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Pain while chewing, especially in one specific spot
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Ulcers or raw areas on the inner cheeks or gums
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Delayed healing after sore spots appear
Cleaning your dentures thoroughly and using a soft liner can help reduce irritation and support healing.
Improper Bite and Pressure Points:
An uneven bite can create localized pressure when you chew, causing discomfort in specific areas of the mouth. This is usually due to misalignment in how the upper and lower dentures come together. If your bite isn’t balanced, you may notice pain that doesn’t go away even after rest. This type of issue may involve:
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Sharp pain on one side of the mouth
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Cracking or clicking sounds while chewing
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Uneven wear on one part of the denture
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Jaw fatigue or TMJ discomfort
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Headaches or neck pain, due to strain from improper alignment
Dentists can adjust the occlusion, or contact points, to ensure pressure is evenly distributed and minimize these symptoms.
Poor Hygiene and Infections:
Neglecting to clean dentures properly can lead to the buildup of plaque, bacteria, or even fungal infections such as oral thrush. When hygiene is overlooked, the gums may become irritated and prone to infection. Pain from infections is typically more intense and persistent. Signs of infection-related discomfort include:
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White patches or lesions in the mouth
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Persistent bad breath, even after cleaning
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Swollen, red gums that bleed easily
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A burning or itchy feeling in the palate or tongue
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General discomfort wearing the denture, even if it fits well
Daily cleaning and soaking in an antibacterial solution are crucial in preventing infections and maintaining comfort.
Allergic Reactions and Material Sensitivity:
Though rare, some people may have allergic reactions to the materials used in their Teeth Dentures, such as acrylic or metal. This can result in inflammation or a burning sensation when the denture is in use. Reactions can develop over time or appear shortly after new dentures are fitted. Common symptoms include:
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Dry mouth or excessive salivation
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Burning tongue or palate
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Red, irritated skin around the mouth
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Persistent itching or rash
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General discomfort with no visible sores
Switching to hypoallergenic materials under a dentist’s guidance can resolve most cases of denture-related allergies.
How to Prevent Denture Pain?
While you might still ask, “Why do dentures hurt sometimes?”, proactive care and regular dental visits can make a big difference. Many of the causes of discomfort are preventable with the right habits and attention. To minimize the risk of pain:
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Remove dentures at night to let gums rest and recover
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Clean daily with a soft brush and proper cleanser
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Get annual checkups to monitor fit and oral changes
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Avoid hard or sticky foods, especially with new dentures
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Report any discomfort early, before it worsens
In conclusion, dentures shouldn’t hurt when fitted and maintained correctly. If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, consulting your dentist promptly will help identify the cause and bring lasting relief.
