Removable dentures are not the most natural or comfortable teeth to use for chewing or speaking. Dentures are better than having no teeth at all, but they are prosthetic (man-made false teeth).
When you have Sjögren’s Syndrome, the major and minor salivary glands of the mouth stop producing saliva.
Saliva is needed fort moisture and lubrication. Saliva helps to digest food when chewing and swallowing.
Dentures require moisture for several reasons:
- Creates better suction of dentures
- Creates better lubrication during chewing
- Creates better lubrication during speaking
- Helps to dissolve solid food during eating
- Prevents food from sticking to your teeth
Gum tissues (oral mucosa, gingiva, gums) get sore when dry dentures rub over dry gums. It really hurts. You know what I’m talking about if you have dry mouth (also called xerostomia). The removable dentures feel like sandpaper and are very abrasive in a dry mouth.
Dental implants have been used to support a renewed beautiful smile in little as 1-2 visits. The 3 Minute Implant™ has helps thousands of patients restore the smiles with beautiful dental implants. Patients with a dry mouth have reported improved eating, speaking and self esteem when their mouth was restored with dental implants.
We are available to assist you in understanding how Sjögren’s Syndrome affects dentures and dental implants. If you or a family member, friend, neighbor or coworker has Sjögren’s Syndrome and is seeking guidance on any dental health related matter, get started by sending us a quick note here.
All the best,
Dr. Joe Kravitz, DDS, MS
Dentist, Prosthodontist, Author, Researcher
Rockville, Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC
