My last gum is swollen

Dental symptoms and questions need a clear explanation of the likely cause, useful next steps, and warning signs that need prompt care.

An overdenture is a removable denture that rests on remaining natural teeth, roots, or dental implants. Its service life depends on chewing wear, fracture or distortion of the acrylic base, loss of retention in locator or bar attachments, oral hygiene, and changes in the jaw ridge or supporting teeth.

Remove and clean the overdenture as instructed, clean around abutments or implants with the recommended brush, and store the appliance in water when it is out of the mouth unless your clinician gives different instructions. Do not bend clips, glue a cracked base, or adjust the fit yourself; a dentist can replace worn inserts, reline the base, repair the acrylic, or plan a new prosthesis.

Arrange an examination if the overdenture rocks, causes a sore spot, has a broken tooth, no longer stays in place, or becomes painful to remove. Seek prompt care for swelling, pus, bleeding around an implant or tooth, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Ask which part is wearing, whether the supporting teeth or implants remain healthy, and whether a reline, attachment replacement, repair, or new denture is appropriate. Also ask how often the appliance and its supports should be checked and which cleaning products suit its acrylic and metal parts.