Dentures and Health Changes
Health conditions can affect how dentures are worn, cleaned, and managed. This guide outlines how different conditions may influence denture use and what carers and families can consider.
Dementia affects memory, recognition, and the ability to follow familiar routines. These changes may make denture care more difficult over time.
Forgetting routines
Daily tasks such as cleaning, removing, or reinserting dentures may be forgotten or completed inconsistently. A person may have difficulty recognising or understanding the purpose of their dentures.
Resistance and distress
A person with dementia may become distressed when assistance is provided with denture care. This may be related to confusion, discomfort, or difficulty understanding what is happening.
Misplacing dentures
Dentures may be placed in unusual locations such as under pillows, in cups, or wrapped in tissues. Labelling dentures may assist with identification if they are misplaced.
Later stages
As dementia progresses, some people may find it difficult to wear dentures safely or comfortably. Reduced swallowing ability, reduced oral awareness, and difficulty following instructions may affect tolerance. At this stage, care may focus more on comfort and dignity. A dental professional can assist in assessing whether continued denture use is appropriate.
General Tips for Carers
- •Maintaining a consistent routine may support denture care
- •Visual cues such as placing items within view may assist with reminders
- •Offering guidance one step at a time may improve cooperation
- •If distress occurs, it may be helpful to pause and try again later
- •Regularly checking the mouth may help identify changes such as redness or sores
- •Labelling dentures may assist with identification if misplaced
When to Seek Support
Seeking support early may help reduce discomfort or prevent complications.
Contact a dental professional if:
- •Dentures feel loose or do not stay in place
- •There are visible sores, redness, or white patches
- •Eating becomes difficult or intake reduces
- •Dentures have not been reviewed for an extended period
- •There are concerns about fit or comfort
- •There are concerns about swallowing
- •Signs of discomfort are present but difficult to explain
Emotional and Mental Health Support
Changes in oral health and denture use may affect how some people feel about their appearance, confidence, and daily activities. These experiences vary between individuals.
Caring for someone with a chronic health condition may also affect a carer's wellbeing. Some people report feeling stressed or overwhelmed at times.
Support services are available for those who would like additional assistance.
Medicare Mental Health Centres provide free mental health support across Australia. Many centres offer walk-in access and do not require a referral. Services are provided by qualified professionals and may include support, assessment, and connection to other services where appropriate.
Phone service available 8:30am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). Centre opening hours vary by location.