4 Benefits of a Dental Checkup with Dentures

If you’ve replaced all your teeth with a denture, you might believe you don’t need to see your dentist every 6 months anymore. Although your new teeth aren’t subject to tooth decay, you’re not off the hook. Cavities aren’t the only oral health concern, which is why you still need dental checkups with dentures. Here are 4 reasons it’s important to commit to visiting your dentist regularly despite your dentures.

1. Maintain Your Dental Hygiene

Even if you’ve lost all your natural teeth, a clean mouth is still crucial to your oral and general health. You’ll need to keep your tongue and gums clean to reduce your risk of gum disease. Plaque can accumulate, which can lead to irritation, inflammation, and even bad breath. Not to mention, your dentures serve as your real teeth, which means they will experience plaque buildup as well. Your semi-annual appointments allow your dentist to review your home oral hygiene habits to make recommendations for improvement to keep your smile healthy in between appointments. They can also clean your denture to keep it looking great and odor-free.

2. Monitor for Oral health Issues

Poorly fitting dentures are linked to increasing the risk of certain oral health problems, like gum disease and oral cancer. Since there’s evidence connecting poorly fitting dentures to oral cancer, it’s best to see your dentist regularly for a screening. Research has shown 80% of new oral cancer cases can be detected early by a dentist.

3. Adjust Your Dentures

Your hard and soft tissues will change shape over time, which means your dentures may not fit comfortably. They can slip and cause irritation that can lead to gum disease, sores, poor nutrition, and sleep apnea. Your dentist will ensure your denture continues to fit snuggly for the best feel and function. You’ll lower your risk of preventable issues, including oral cancer.

4. Prolong Your Denture’s Lifespan

On average, dentures last for 5 to 7 years before needing to be replaced. You can ensure your new smile thrives for several years by visiting your dentist. They’ll make the necessary adjustments and repairs to promote their lifespan to make the most of your investment. If you’re interested in a more permanent solution, ask your dentist about adding the stability of dental implants to your denture.

Commit to Routine Appointments

Although you might have suffered significant tooth loss, you should still visit your dentist at least once a year for a cleaning and checkup. They’ll ensure everything is still fitting correctly and your mouth is healthy, so your new teeth will continue to look and feel their best.

About Dr. Derek Metzger

Dr. Metzger earned his dental degree at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine before continuing his skills through various educational courses, including the Dental Implant Continuum. He has the advanced solutions you need to replace your missing teeth. Whether you’re interested in dentures or dental implants, contact our office today to schedule your consultation for a complete smile.