There are many reasons why dentures can seem loose. For example, if the teeth don't come together in a balanced bite, you'll wind up with wobbly dentures while chewing on your food. If the denture is too long in some areas, the mouth muscles will actually move it about while eating or talking. Too short? The vital areas of the mouth won't get covered, which means the denture won't stay in place. Loose dentures could also be the result of health issues. Ask yourself these questions: Am I on medication, or have I recently changed medication? Have I suddenly gained or lost weight? Can my health be improved? Am I under stress? Even the amount of remaining bone structure in your mouth and the amount of saliva you produce can be contributing factors.

2. Is it okay to regularly use an adhesive to keep my dentures in place?

Dentures are made to fit precisely. But, in rare cases, individuals might have to use adhesives if they have experienced excessive bone loss, if they produce an irregular amount or consistency of saliva, or if they experience gag reflex problems. What if you're caught in a sticky situation (no pun intended), one where your dentures have come loose but you can't get immediate access to a denture clinic? Adhesives to the rescue -- but only until you are able to visit your dentist. A note of caution: Denture adhesives offer a false sense of security and lead to unreasonable expectations for stability. At best, they provide a temporary solution. They should not replace the services of a dentist. Prolonged use of adhesives could result in eventual bone loss. Remember that an ill-fitting denture translates into constant irritations and even the development of soreness.

3. With dentures, is there anything special I must do to care for my mouth?

Plaque removal and stimulated circulation are vital for healthy gums. I recommend that you get into the habit of removing your dentures and brushing your gums, tongue and palate with a very soft toothbrush once or twice a day. This contributes to the health of the tissue and the likelihood of success with your dentures. Denture wearers should not chew gum because this action places excessive strain on the temporomandibular (jaw) joint, which can lead to future problems. When eating, be careful not to bite off hard foods with your front teeth. This will result in irritation of the ridges and accelerated bone loss. Quite possibly, one long-term effect may be that future dentures are harder to fit.

4. Will I have to give up my favorite foods?

The answer is NO. Don't think that you'll be "biting off more than you can chew" when you begin wearing dentures. But do understand that you will have to change the way you eat some foods. Tip: don't "bite off" food, cut it into smaller portions. Dentures should be removed for a period of time each day. Most people find it convenient to do this at bedtime. As with teeth, you must take care of your dentures. It is also important that you visit your denturist annually for a thorough oral examination.

5. What is the best way to clean and care for my dentures?

Use commercially available powders, tablets or toothpaste to clean your dentures, and a good quality denture brush. Also, hold your dentures over a water-filled sink or over a folded towel while cleaning them; should you drop your dentures, they'll be less likely to break. After cleaning, rinse your dentures thoroughly in clear water. For metal partial dentures, be sure to read the instructions carefully on any cleaner that you apply. For dentures with soft-liners, be sure to not exceed 20 minutes of soaking time. For smokers, a stronger professional strength cleaner may be available from your dentist. For those with plaque and tartar build-up on their dentures, see your dentist for an ultrasonic cleaning. What not to do: avoid using boiling water, abrasive cleaners, or bleach, as these will damage your dentures. For example, bleach has the ability to oxidize metal partials, turning them black. Bleach can also be absorbed into dentures, which may irritate your mouth.

6. I only have a few teeth missing and the dentist recommends a partial denture. Why is this necessary?

A partial denture fills the empty spaces in your mouth and keeps your other teeth from moving in strange new directions. Not only would your smile have a whole new look - which you weren't intending to get - but you could also have problems chewing or speaking. A precisely-fitting partial results in proper chewing while maintaining general oral health. If the tooth space does not get "filled," here's what will likely happen: one or more of the remaining teeth may lift (extrude), exposing part of the sensitive root structure to bacteria and debris inside the mouth. This could lead to tooth decay and eventual, permanent loss.

A partial denture also works well for those who have a full upper denture and a few teeth missing on the lower. The partial helps to balance your occlusion, while allowing you to chew and speak properly. Overall, the partial will contribute to the success of your upper denture. So be sure you get those missing teeth replaced. You'll prevent your jaw from moving out of position, thus preventing a lot of unnecessary problems.