How Often Should I Replace My Dentures?

 
 

Dentures can be a life-altering transformation, especially if you've been dealing with bad teeth for some time. They help enhance every action involving your mouth, from smiling to talking to chewing. However, it's important to note that dentures are not a permanent solution for tooth replacement. 

Over time, they undergo wear and tear and will eventually require replacement. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the signs that indicate the need for denture replacement, proper maintenance and upkeep, and how often dentures should be replaced.

Signs Your Dentures Need to Be Replaced

Your dentures may need to be replaced if you experience any of the following signs:

1. Damage

Visible damage such as breakage, hairline cracks, discolored acrylic, teeth falling out, or stubborn dark stains are indications of wear and tear. While denture repairs can be a temporary solution, it's not advisable to keep investing in a worn denture that has required multiple repairs.

2. Sores on Gums

If your gums have changed since the denture was originally made, it may no longer fit correctly. Your dentist can assess your denture and determine if relining it can improve the fit. However, in most cases, it is best to consider a new denture that is specifically made to fit the current shape of your gums.

3. Difficulty Chewing

Problems with chewing can indicate that the bite requires adjustment. However, if the denture teeth are noticeably worn or flattened, adjusting or increasing the bite force will not improve your ability to chew. Denture teeth wear out over time, causing them to become dull and less effective.

4. Speech Problems

Speech difficulties may be caused by dentures that slip, incorrect denture border length, excessively thick acrylic, excessive use of denture adhesive, or improperly positioned teeth. In most cases, new dentures are the solution to resolve speech problems.

5. Altered Facial Appearance

If your facial features appear sunken or collapsed, it may indicate that your dentures no longer adequately support your facial muscles. Worn denture teeth can accentuate wrinkles and cause your lips to overclose, leading to a sunken appearance. These signs suggest the need for denture replacement.

6. Looseness

While it is normal for lower dentures to feel loose, a chronically loose lower denture that you cannot control with your tongue is a sign of an ill-fitting denture.

Denture Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your dentures. Here are some dentist-prescribed denture care guidelines to ensure your dentures serve you well:

Daily Denture Care

  • Remove your dentures over a basin of water or several layers of towels to prevent breakage if they slip.

  • Use a denture brush, liquid dishwashing soap, or denture cleaning paste to brush away plaque and debris.

  • Rinse your dentures under cool, running water.

  • Store your dentures in a sealed container of cool water or an effervescent denture cleaning solution to keep them fresh.

Good Hygiene Habits

  • Clean your gum tissue and tongue with a soft-bristle toothbrush or a moistened washcloth to stimulate blood flow.

  • Always remove your dentures before sleeping to minimize the risk of fungal overgrowth and thrush.

Avoid Harmful Chemicals

  • Only clean your dentures with products designed specifically for denture cleaning.

  • Avoid using abrasive cleaners or household bleach, as they can damage the denture material and harbor harmful bacteria.

  • Reserve toothpaste for cleaning natural teeth, as it contains abrasives that can wear away denture teeth.

Never Perform Self-Adjustments

If you experience discomfort or an improper fit, it's best to leave adjustments to dental professionals. Attempting to adjust your dentures at home can result in irreparable damage.

Storing Dentures

Always keep your dentures submerged in water inside a sealed container when they are not in your mouth. This prevents damage and keeps them out of the reach of children and pets, who may mistake them for toys or chew on them.

Regular Dental Visits

Patients who wear dentures should visit a dental professional at least once a year for proper care. Regular check-ups allow dentists to identify and address any issues before they become more significant problems. Dentures typically require relining every one to two years to ensure proper fit, although this timeframe may vary depending on changes in gum tissue and bone structure.

How Often Should Dentures Be Replaced?

While some patients claim to wear the same dentures for their entire lives, it is not advisable to do so. 

Dentures, regardless of whether they are full or partial, have a limited lifespan. According to a study published in the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, traditional acrylic dentures generally last about five years before requiring replacement. However, dentures made from high-quality resins can last up to 10 years on average. 

Keep in mind that the age of the denture is not the sole determining factor for replacement.

If you experience any issues with your dentures, it is important to seek advice from a dental professional. In some cases, minor problems can be corrected through adjustments or relining to improve the fit.

Superior Denture Replacement at Denture Haus

At Denture Haus, we understand the importance of high-quality, personalized dentures. We offer a range of denture options to address your needs, preferences, and budget. Our experienced denture prosthetist will guide you in choosing the best denture solution for you. 

Whether you need full dentures, partial dentures, or implant-supported dentures, we are committed to providing comfortable and natural-looking dentures.

Book a consultation appointment with our team today to experience the life-changing benefits of comfortable dentures.

 
 
Mitch Hills