About gum types
There are two basic types of gums: thin (scalloped) and thick (flat).
Thin (scalloped) gums
Thin gums have a triangle shape and are thinner where they meet the tooth. They are more prone to gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. This can be prevented by gentle daily brushing and flossing with a soft bristle toothbrush. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease, which can contribute to gum recession.
Thick (flat) gums
Thick gums have a square shape and are thicker at the area where they meet the tooth. They are at a higher risk of developing periodontal pocketing, a condition where the gum tissue detaches from the tooth and creates a pocket around the tooth. However, this can be prevented through daily oral hygiene practices and routine professional cleanings to remove plaque deposits that can lead to periodontal pocketing.
Dentures
Dentures are inherently thick and bulky, and as a result, they occupy more space in your mouth than natural teeth. Considering these factors, the equation becomes apparent: Flat Gums + Thick Dentures = Extraordinarily Thick Dentures.
How can you ensure a proper fit for dentures on flat gums?
Flat gums, also known as thick gums, can present a challenge when it comes to fitting dentures. These gums are thicker than average and often lead to teeth that are shorter and thicker than normal. When a square tooth is present, the gums surrounding it will also be thicker. Additionally, flat gums have a tendency to pocket, meaning that the gums are not securely attached to the teeth, resulting in space between each tooth.
It is important to understand the anatomy of dentures to comprehend why they do not work well with flat gums. Dentures are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth. They are typically made of acrylic or gum-colored plastic, with replicas of your teeth embedded in the material. Full sets of dentures are commonly used when all of a person’s teeth have been removed.
To ensure a proper fit for dentures on flat gums, it is recommended to visit a dentist or denturist who specializes in dentures. They may recommend using a dental adhesive to create a secure fit, or suggest relining the dentures to better conform to the shape of your gums. It is important to properly care for dentures, including regular cleaning and removal for soaking, to ensure a comfortable and effective fit.
After your gums have healed, the upper dentures are placed over your gums and consist of a plate that covers the roof of your mouth. The lower dentures fit over your bottom gums and are held in place by gravity and the strength of your cheek muscles. However, dentures are often thick and bulky by nature and take up more space in your mouth than natural teeth.
When combined with flat gums, dentures can become even thicker and more difficult to manage. This equation can lead to discomfort and challenges in adjusting to the new prosthetic. It can cause gagging, saliva production, and difficulty speaking clearly.
Overall, the combination of flat gums and dentures can present unique challenges. However, with proper care and adjustments from a dental professional, a comfortable and functional fit can be achieved.
Thick dentures may cause these problems
If your dentures are too thick, you may experience the following issues:
Jaw pain
The thickness of the dentures can cause pain in your jaw, which can worsen throughout the day. This may even lead to TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), which is characterized by a clicking sound in the jaw whenever you move it.
Frequent gagging
Your brain may view dentures as foreign objects in your mouth, leading to feelings of nausea and frequent gagging. The back of the upper palate can also activate your gag reflex, making the experience even more uncomfortable.
Prominent teeth and gums
With thick gums and dentures, your smile may look different than it did before. Your lips may feel different when wrapping around the new teeth, and you may show more of your teeth and gums than you did previously.
Difficulty speaking
Thick dentures can slip and interfere with your ability to speak clearly. The bulky palate may get in the way of your tongue, making it difficult to form words properly.
Overall, it is important to have your dentures properly fitted to avoid these issues. A dental professional can make adjustments to ensure a comfortable and functional fit.
If you have flat gums, what options do you have to replace missing teeth?
There are a few things you can try to make dentures adhere better to flat gums, such as having them relined or applying more denture adhesive to improve their grip.
However, if you have flat gums and are looking for a more natural-looking and secure solution to replace missing teeth, dental implants may be a better option. The dental implants we offer here at Dental & Implant Centers Of Colorado are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth without worrying about slipping or gagging.
Dental implants are not affected by flat gums and can be placed in the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Unlike dentures, dental implants do not need to be removed for cleaning and can last a lifetime with proper care.
So, if you have flat gums and want to replace your missing teeth, consider talking to a dental professional about the benefits of dental implants.
Our team at Dental & Implant Centers Of Colorado is always available and happy to answer any questions you may have about dentures and dental implants. We believe that everyone deserves a smile that can last a lifetime, and we are here to help you achieve that goal.
If you have flat gums and are looking for a more natural-looking and secure solution to replace missing teeth, dental implants may be the right choice for you. We can guide you through the process and teach you everything you need to know about the benefits of dental implants.
So don’t hesitate to reach out to us and schedule a consultation. Say yes to a smile that will last as long as you do, and let us help you achieve it with dental implants.
