The Role of Dentists in Denture Care: Should You Still Schedule Checkups?

Full dentures can be a life-changing treatment for patients missing all of their natural teeth. While dentures will provide form and function to your smile, they still require ongoing care. Many patients are surprised by this, assuming that once they have full dentures, regular dental checkups are unnecessary.

However, regular visits to the dentist are still critical for denture wearers in many ways. Continue reading to learn why.

1. Oral Health Assessments

Regular dental checkups allow dentists to assess the overall health of your mouth, including the condition of your gums, soft tissues, and any remaining natural teeth. Even with full dentures, it’s important to monitor the health of your gums to prevent issues like gum disease or irritation. Dentures are known to worsen these conditions, especially in older patients.

2. Denture Fit and Function

Over time, the shape of your jawbone may change, affecting the fit and function of your dentures. Regular dental visits let your dentist evaluate how well your dentures fit and adjust them if necessary. This ensures they remain both comfortable and functional for their lifetime.

Ill-fitting dentures can lead to discomfort, difficulty eating and speaking, and even oral sores. This is why dentists are eager to keep your dentures in top condition.

3. Oral Cancer Screening

The unfortunate reality is that dentures and aging can both contribute to the appearance of oral cancer. Visiting your dentist lets them perform an oral cancer screening at regular intervals.

During this process, they’ll examine the soft tissues of your mouth for any signs of abnormalities or potential cancerous lesions. These screenings are essential for early detection and prompt treatment if any abnormalities are found. 

4. Education and Guidance

Have you ever been frustrated by something that happened with your dentures and needed to ask about it? Dental checkups provide just such an opportunity. During your appointment, your dentist can answer any questions you may have about your dentures from gum care to maintenance. After all, part of a dentist’s job is to educate, and they love sharing their knowledge with patients.

5. Prevention of Oral Issues

Regular dental visits allow dentists to identify and address any budding oral health problems before they become unmanageable. Issues like fungal infections, dry mouth, or gum disease can still happen to patients with full dentures.

So, now you understand that dental checkups are just as important for patients with dentures as those with natural teeth. Regular visits to the dentist allow for comprehensive treatment of oral health, denture maintenance, and early detection of conditions. Don’t skip out on your checkups—your dentures and smile still need professional care!

About the Practice

Dr. Jacqueline T. Nguyen and Dr. Masoud E. Najari are your talented and professional dentists at Murphy Family Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry. They share a passion for patient care, striving to treat every patient like family and listen to their needs. Whether you need denture care or cosmetic procedures, they will provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs that incorporates advanced dental technology. Call (972) 516-2928 to schedule a denture consultation or visit the website to explore other services.