My Dentures Don't Fit Anymore β Should I Worry?
Dentures that no longer fit properly can be frustrating. Here is what might be behind the change.
Dentures can stop fitting well for several reasons, and most are not cancer.
- Common causes include:
- Normal bone shrinkage β after teeth are removed, the jawbone gradually shrinks over years, changing the shape of the gums
- Weight loss or gain β significant changes in body weight can affect how dentures fit
- Gum inflammation β from poor denture hygiene or fungal infection (denture stomatitis)
- Dry mouth β less saliva means less suction for dentures
- New bone growth β sometimes the jawbone grows irregularly over time
- Less commonly, a change in denture fit β especially if it happens suddenly or on one side β can be caused by:
- A growing lump or tumor in the jaw or palate
- Oral cancer β a tumor can push the denture out of position
What to Look For
- Usually not serious:
- Gradual change in fit over several years (normal bone shrinkage)
- Fitting improves with a denture reline
- Affects both upper and lower dentures equally
- No other symptoms
- Worth having checked:
- Sudden change in fit over a few weeks or months
- Poor fit that is on one side only
- A sore, lump, or swelling under the denture
- Dentures that rock or wobble in a new way
- A red or white patch under the denture
- Pain in the jaw or palate
When to See a Doctor
- See a dentist if:
- Your dentures suddenly stop fitting well
- The problem is on one side only
- You notice a lump or swelling under your denture
- You have a sore that does not heal under the denture
- You have pain in your jaw or face