How Long Do Dentures Last? Signs It’s Time for a Replacement
Dentures are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile, but like any dental appliance, they don’t last forever. Over time, dentures experience wear and tear, and changes in your mouth can affect their fit and comfort. Knowing how long dentures typically last and recognising the signs that it’s time for a replacement can help you maintain a comfortable, functional smile.
In this blog, we’ll explore how long dentures generally last, the factors that affect their lifespan, and the common signs that indicate it’s time for a new set.
How Long Do Dentures Typically Last?
The average lifespan of dentures is between 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of denture, how well they’re cared for, and changes in your oral health over time.
Full Dentures: Full dentures usually last 5 to 7 years before needing replacement.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures tend to last longer, typically between 7 to 10 years, as they are supported by natural teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures: These are more durable and can last 10 years or more with proper care.
While dentures are designed to be durable, daily wear, chewing, and natural changes in your mouth can cause them to lose their fit and effectiveness over time.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Dentures
Several factors can influence how long your dentures last:
1. Material Quality
High-quality dentures made from premium materials like acrylic or porcelain tend to last longer than lower-quality options.
2. Oral Hygiene
Keeping your dentures clean helps prevent plaque buildup, staining, and bacterial growth, all of which can shorten their lifespan.
3. Mouth Changes
Your jawbone and gums naturally change shape over time, which can cause your dentures to become loose or uncomfortable.
4. Frequency of Use
Wearing your dentures all day, every day increases wear and tear. Removing them at night can help prolong their lifespan.
5. Eating Habits
Chewing hard or sticky foods can put extra stress on your dentures, causing them to crack or wear down more quickly.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Dentures
Even if your dentures still look fine, they may no longer function properly or fit comfortably. Here are the most common signs that it’s time for a replacement:
1. Loose or Poor Fit
Over time, the shape of your gums and jawbone naturally changes, which can cause dentures to feel loose or uncomfortable.
Signs to Look For:
Dentures slipping or moving when you talk or eat.
Needing to use more adhesive to keep them in place.
Feeling like your dentures are "floating" in your mouth.
Why It Matters:
A poor fit can lead to gum irritation, sores, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Replacing your dentures ensures a more secure, comfortable fit.
2. Visible Damage or Wear
Everyday use can cause your dentures to crack, chip, or develop rough edges.
Signs to Look For:
Cracks, chips, or fractures in the denture material.
Thinning or worn-down teeth.
Broken clasps or attachments on partial dentures.
Why It Matters:
Damaged dentures are more likely to break and may no longer provide effective support for chewing or speaking.
3. Discomfort or Pain
Well-fitting dentures should feel comfortable. If you experience discomfort, it could mean that the shape of your mouth has changed, or the dentures are worn down.
Signs to Look For:
Sore spots on your gums.
Pressure or pinching when wearing dentures.
Pain while chewing or talking.
Why It Matters:
Discomfort could be a sign that your dentures need to be relined or replaced. Ignoring the problem can lead to gum irritation or infections.
4. Changes in Your Facial Appearance
Dentures play a big role in supporting the shape of your face. When they start to wear out or fit poorly, you might notice subtle changes in how your face looks.
Signs to Look For:
A sunken or hollow appearance around your mouth.
Increased wrinkles or sagging skin near your lips.
Your bite feels "off" or misaligned.
Why It Matters:
Replacing your dentures helps restore the proper alignment and support for your facial structure, giving you a more youthful appearance.
5. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking
If you notice that eating certain foods has become harder or that you’re slurring or mumbling more often, your dentures may be losing their shape or grip.
Signs to Look For:
Difficulty chewing tough or crunchy foods.
Speech becoming unclear or slurred.
Biting your tongue or cheeks more frequently.
Why It Matters:
Well-fitting dentures should allow you to chew and speak comfortably. If they’re making these tasks harder, it’s time for an adjustment or replacement.
6. Persistent Odours or Staining
If your dentures are clean but still smell bad or have deep stains, it may be due to material breakdown or trapped bacteria.
Signs to Look For:
Bad breath even after cleaning your dentures.
Yellowing or dark stains that don’t come off with cleaning.
A slimy or rough feeling on the denture surface.
Why It Matters:
Old or porous dentures can harbour bacteria, increasing the risk of gum infections and bad breath. New dentures provide a fresh, clean surface.
How to Extend the Life of Your Dentures
While dentures will eventually need to be replaced, proper care can help them last longer and stay comfortable:
Clean Daily: Brush your dentures with a soft-bristle brush and mild soap or denture cleaner.
Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can warp dentures—use lukewarm water instead.
Soak Overnight: Keep your dentures in a denture-soaking solution or plain water when not in use.
Handle with Care: Avoid dropping or bending your dentures when cleaning or storing them.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit your dentist at least once a year to check the fit and condition of your dentures.
When to See a Professional
If you notice any signs of damage or discomfort, it’s best to see a professional sooner rather than later. A denture specialist can assess the condition of your dentures and determine whether a simple adjustment or a full replacement is needed.
Regular check-ups will also help identify small issues before they become big problems, saving you time and money in the long run.
Keep Your Smile Healthy and Comfortable
Dentures are designed to last for several years, but they do wear out over time. Recognising the signs that it’s time for a replacement—such as poor fit, discomfort, or damage—ensures that you maintain a confident smile and good oral health.
At Denture Haus, we specialise in high-quality dentures designed for comfort, function, and a natural appearance. Whether you need a replacement or a simple adjustment, our expert team is here to help.
Ready for a comfortable, secure smile? Contact Denture Haus today to schedule a consultation and find the right solution for your denture needs!