|
Posted on 2/20/2020 by Front Desk |
![]() Adjusting to dentures can be challenging, but the sensation of having a full mouth dissipates, and chewing and speaking become easier each day. Sometimes however, certain symptoms of other health conditions can put a damper on the excitement of getting dentures. The Importance of SalivaThe production of saliva may be something you've rarely thought about, but getting new dentures can add new meaning to this essential process. Saliva is mostly water, but is also composed of mucus, electrolytes, enzymes, and antibacterial compounds. This vital fluid helps to moisten your food to chew and swallow, making it essential for digestion.For denture wearers, saliva is vital for creating suction between your gums and your dentures, making the dentures more stable. Saliva is also a lubricant for preventing abrasion and irritation of your gums that can cause discomfort and infection. Finally, saliva functions to help prevent oral diseases, such as oral thrush. Dry Mouth and DenturesLeaving your dry mouth untreated, can lead to loose dentures, which can cause irritation, sores, and infection, so it's important to stay on track with any treatments or therapies that can improve health conditions contributing to dry mouth.Underlying illnesses, such as diabetes and liver dysfunction, can reduce saliva production, and some blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and decongestants can contribute to dry mouth. Finally, we produce less saliva as we age, making the senior years a common time for both dry mouth and dentures. Wearing dentures should be liberating and empowering, rather than something you avoid due to the discomfort of dry mouth. Contact our office with any concerns regarding your dentures or to schedule a consultation. |
|