Lower dentures can be difficult to wear and are the source of many headaches with denture wearers. Many dentists shy away from doing dentures altogether due to the common complaints with lower dentures.
While most denture wearers adjust to their lower dentures, many carry it around in their pocket or leave it on their nightstand.
The biggest reason the lower denture is uncomfortable is that it doesn't "suck" like the upper denture. The shape of the upper jaw and palate allows the upper denture to have some suction and stay in place on the upper palate.
The lower jaw is U-shaped and rarely provides any suction, and relies on the bony ridge to secure it. If you have bone loss, which is common with tooth loss, you may not have enough ridge to support your lower denture effectively.
The second reason is that there are more muscles around a lower denture that can move it from side to side. The tongue is right next to the lower denture and is a powerful muscle that has to learn new habits to adapt to it. Also, the cheek muscles and chewing muscles attached to the lower jaw can lift the denture and push it out of place.
For more help with your dentures, call our Gretna, LA dental office.