Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva. While it can affect anyone, denture wearers often face additional challenges. Saliva helps keep the mouth moist, reduces friction between dentures and gums, and supports denture stability. Without enough moisture, dentures may feel loose, cause irritation, and make speaking or eating more difficult. Additionally, dry mouth increases the risk of bacterial and fungal infections, leading to discomfort and oral health issues. Recognising these challenges can help denture wearers find effective ways to manage symptoms and maintain their oral health.
The Role of Saliva in Denture Comfort
Saliva is essential for denture wearers because it helps with retention and cushioning. Dentures may feel unstable when the mouth is dry, causing discomfort and irritation.
How saliva can help with denture wear:
- Retention & stability: Saliva creates a natural suction that helps keep dentures in place.
- Lubrication: Moisture reduces friction between the dentures and gums, preventing sore spots.
- Improved function: Speaking and eating become smoother with sufficient saliva production.
Without saliva, dentures may become loose, making everyday activities uncomfortable. Denture wearers who experience dry mouth may need to take extra steps to keep their mouth hydrated and improve denture stability.
Increased Risk of Gum Irritation & Infections
A dry mouth creates an environment where bacteria and fungi can thrive, leading to irritation, infections, and inflammation. Denture wearers are already more susceptible to conditions like denture stomatitis, and xerostomia can increase that risk.
Common oral health concerns linked to dry mouth:
- Denture stomatitis: Inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria or yeast growth under the dentures.
- Oral thrush: A fungal infection that appears as white patches on the tongue or inner cheeks.
- Sore spots & ulcers: Increased friction from loose dentures can cause irritation or small wounds in the mouth.
Regular cleaning and soaking of dentures can help control bacterial buildup. Additionally, staying hydrated and using saliva substitutes can help reduce the risk of infections.
Difficulty in Eating & Speaking
Saliva helps with digestion and makes it easier to chew, swallow, and speak. Denture wearers may find it difficult to eat certain foods or pronounce words clearly without enough moisture.
Challenges of dry mouth for denture wearers:
- Hard or dry foods: Crackers, bread, and meats can become harder to chew and swallow.
- Speaking difficulties: Less saliva can make it harder to properly move the tongue and lips.
- Altered taste perception: A dry mouth can lead to changes in how foods taste.
To reduce these difficulties, denture wearers can try eating softer foods, drinking water with meals, and avoiding substances that contribute to dehydration, such as caffeine and alcohol.
Increased Risk of Denture Slippage
Denture stability relies heavily on saliva. When the mouth is dry, dentures may not stay in place properly, leading to discomfort and frequent adjustments.
How dry mouth affects denture stability:
- Less suction: Without saliva, dentures may lose their grip and move around.
- Increased friction: Loose dentures can cause sore spots and discomfort.
- More frequent adjustments: Poor fit may require wearers to reposition their dentures more often.
Using denture adhesives can help improve stability by providing an additional layer of support. However, if slippage becomes a persistent issue, a dental professional may need to adjust the dentures for a better fit.
Managing Dry Mouth for Better Denture Wear
Although dry mouth can be frustrating, there are ways to manage it and improve denture comfort. Making small adjustments to daily habits and using the right products can help reduce discomfort.
Tips for managing dry mouth:
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help stimulate saliva production.
- Use saliva substitutes: Over-the-counter sprays or gels can provide temporary relief.
- Avoid dehydrating substances: Caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco can make dry mouth worse.
- Choose alcohol-free mouthwash: Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can further dry the mouth.
- Maintain good denture hygiene: Cleaning and soaking dentures regularly can help prevent infections.
Sometimes, a dentist or prosthetist may recommend additional treatments, such as prescription medications, to stimulate saliva production.
Need Help with Xerostomia Denture Issues?
If dry mouth makes it difficult to wear dentures comfortably, our team at The Denture Clinic is here to help. Our team can assess your concerns and recommend solutions tailored to your needs, from adjustments to advice on managing xerostomia. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and keep your dentures comfortable and functional.
