Like many things in life that are popular, there is no shortage of misconceptions out there about dentures. For example, some people think you don’t need to visit a dentist regularly if you wear full dentures. Well, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Even if you don’t have any remaining natural teeth, there are many reasons why you should continue to see your dentist every six months. Read on to learn more from your dentist in Fort Worth about the importance of regular dental checkups with dentures.
Maintain a Secure Fit with Your Dentures
Over time, the shape of your jawbone and the soft tissues in your mouth will change. These shifts can alter your bite and affect the fit of your dentures, contributing to discomfort and an increased risk of certain health issues like gum disease, sores, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, sleep apnea, and poor nutrition. It’s completely normal for dentures to need fit adjustments every few months. If your oral appliances feel uncomfortable at any time, you should contact your dentist right away as you may need an adjustment sooner than expected.
Maximize the Lifespan of Your Dentures
By visiting your dentist every six months, you can have peace of mind knowing your dentures are regularly checked for signs of damage and other issues. Your dentist can adjust or repair your oral appliances as needed to maintain their functionality. Best of all, you’ll learn how to properly care for them to get the most wear from the investment you made!
Stay on Top of Your Oral Health
Visiting your dentist twice a year allows them to monitor your oral health and ensure there are no problematic developments. They’ll perform a thorough examination to detect issues like gum disease or oral cancer. Some evidence suggests denture-wearers are at an increased risk of oral cancer, which is why they need to see a dentist regularly. By addressing any issues early on, you can avoid experiencing severe complications down the line.
Routine dental checkups with dentures are crucial for maintaining good oral health. A couple of hours spent each year sitting back so your dentist can ensure you continue to look and feel great – sounds like quite a deal!
About the Author
Dr. Karen Neil has placed a priority on building trust with her patients for more than three decades. She earned her dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Neil is proud to be a member of the House of Delegates for the Texas Dental Association. If you are interested in dentures, she offers full dentures, partials, and implant dentures, plus dental insurance is welcome and flexible financing is available. Schedule a consultation on her website or by calling (817) 738-3368.