Why Does My Lower Denture Move? How Can I Stop It From Moving?

Wearing dentures for the first time can take some getting used to. The goal of dentures is to help you complete your smile,  eat foods that missing teeth can prevent you from enjoying, help correct speech issues that can be caused by missing teeth, and make you feel a little more like yourself. 

While wearing something new in your mouth will  take some getting used to, you’ll also  notice when something doesn’t quite feel right. Your dentures, whether you’re wearing partial dentures or complete dentures should feel secure. 

When your dentures don’t feel secure, you’re probably not going to feel comfortable either. Let’s explore the ins and outs of lower dentures, why your lower dentures might be moving, and how you can wear them with a more secure, comfortable, and confident fit.

What are lower dentures?

When you have missing teeth, dentures are a removable solution designed to complete your smile. They come in either partial or complete denture designs, depending on the extent of your missing teeth.

Lower dentures refer specifically to dentures that would be worn on the lower arch. 

Partial or complete lower dentures will also include synthetic gums, in order to give the false teeth mounted in them a more realistic appearance and comfortable fit

Why is my lower denture moving?

If you’re someone who wears upper and lower dentures, you might find that your upper dentures tend to feel quite secure, and that movement is generally rare. You feel confident wearing them to the point where they often feel like natural teeth. 

Lower dentures, on the other hand, might not always feel as secure. Why? How come the uppers always seem to fit snugly and comfortably, but the lowers do not? Can’t they fit consistently?

Reasons your lower denture might feel loose

• Your lower jaw isn’t big enough for your dentures to suction securely — With no teeth your bone shrinks and there is less surface area Lower jaw and tongue movement can make your lower dentures loose — your tongue rests on your lower jaw, and this combination of movements and pressure can unintentionally push your lower dentures out of place. 
• Misaligned teeth can cause lower dentures to move — If your bite is misaligned, which can occur with people who wear upper and lower dentures or in people just wearing lower or upper dentures, this imprecise positioning, them to fit loosely.

How can I keep my lower dentures from moving?

Wearing lower dentures can sometimes cause people to feel discouraged, but we want you to know that you can wear lower dentures comfortably and securely. Here are a few things to keep in mind while you’re working with your lower dentures.

• Wearing lower dentures takes some adjustment — There may be some minor adjustments that you’ll need to make with your chewing, speaking, and even how you place your tongue as you get used to wearing your lower dentures. Giving both sides of your dentures equal treatment when chewing, for instance, will help distribute pressure across both sides of the jaw evenly. 
• Make sure you’re using dental adhesive — Upper dentures can often fit securely without the use of dental adhesive, but this isn’t always the case with lower dentures. Now, you might assume that the more adhesive you use, the more secure your dentures will be, but this is not usually the case. Follow the directions carefully, and if you’re still having trouble, we advise you to give us a call. 
• Maintain your regular check-ups with your dentist — Sometimes, your anatomy can change. This is true for your gums and jaw, just as it is for many other parts of your body. We want to see you regularly so we can ensure that your dental health is everything it can be. This includes how well your dentures fit. A slight difference in the shape of your jaw can make a world of difference in how well your lower (or upper) dentures will fit. 
• Consider dental implants — Though not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, if you are and you’ve having continuous frustration with the fit and security of your lower dentures, then it might be time for a dental implant consultation.

Have more questions about dentures? Call Carter Park Dental!

No matter what questions you have about dentures or oral hygiene, Carter Park Dental is here to help you live a more fulfilling life with your healthiest smile.

We provide services for the entire family, including routine dental exams, standard and deep cleanings, oral cancer screenings, cosmetic fillings, crowns, dental implants and restorations, Invisalign, and full or partial dentures. 

Contact Carter Park Dental today!