Why Do Dentures Move? And How to Stop It

Your mouth isn’t static—it changes over time. After tooth loss, your jawbone gradually shrinks, and your gums and soft tissues reshape. This means dentures that once fit snugly may become loose. It’s a natural process called bone resorption, and it’s the main reason dentures start to slip.

Dentures are custom-made, but no two mouths are identical. If your dentures weren’t perfectly fitted—or if they haven’t been adjusted after changes in your mouth—they can move. Even small gaps between the denture and your gums can cause noticeable slipping.

Your lips, cheeks, and tongue are constantly moving. When dentures don’t fit perfectly, everyday movements can dislodge them. This is why some dentures feel stable when resting but slide when speaking or chewing.

Over time, the material of your dentures can wear down. Acrylic can warp, and the underside may lose suction against your gums. This naturally leads to more movement and discomfort.

Certain conditions, like dry mouth (often caused by medication), can reduce natural suction and make dentures less stable. Others, such as gum disease or oral infections, can also affect denture fit.

• Adjustment by a professional: Dentures may simply need a reline, repair, or adjustment for a better fit.

• Denture adhesives: Temporary fixes like adhesive creams can help, but they’re not a permanent solution.

• Dental implants: For a permanent fix, implant-supported dentures provide stability, improve chewing ability, and restore confidence. At Stourcote Dental Practice, our implant dentist specialises in helping patients from Stourbridge, Kingswinford, Kinver, Pensnett, Lye, Bromsgrove, and nearby areas enjoy a secure, comfortable smile.

Loose dentures are more than a minor annoyance—they can affect your eating, speaking, and confidence. While adjustments and adhesives help, the most reliable long-term solution for many patients is implant-supported teeth.

If your dentures move, it may be time to explore your options. A comprehensive implant assessment can determine the best solution for your smile, comfort, and long-term oral health.

At Stourcote Dental Practice, we understand the challenges of loose or uncomfortable dentures. Our experienced team offers tailored solutions, from adjustments to advanced implant treatments, to help you enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling without worry.

We proudly serve patients across Stourbridge, Kingswinford, Kinver, Pensnett, Lye, Bromsgrove, and the wider West Midlands area.