Dentures are artificial teeth that are custom-made to fit your mouth and improve your ability to chew and speak. They can also improve your confidence and overall oral health. However, like all dental appliances, dentures have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced.
In this article, we’ll discuss the lifespan of dentures, signs that it’s time to replace them, and factors that affect their lifespan.
Understanding the Lifespan of Dentures
The lifespan of dentures varies depending on several factors, including the quality of the dentures, the type of material they are made from, and how well they are cared for. The average lifespan of dentures is anywhere from 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced.
It’s important to note that dentures are not meant to last forever, and they will eventually wear down and lose their fit over time. This is because the bones and tissues in your mouth are constantly changing, which can cause your dentures to become loose or ill-fitting.
When to Consider Replacing Your Dentures: Recognizing the Signs
There are a few signs that may indicate it’s time to replace your dentures, including:
- Changes in the Fit – If your dentures feel loose or don’t fit properly, it may be time to replace them. Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation, soreness, and even infection.
- Wear and Tear – Over time, dentures can become worn down and damaged, which can affect their appearance and function. If your dentures are showing signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or chips, it may be time to replace them.
- Changes in Your Oral Health – If you’re experiencing changes in your oral health, such as gum disease or decay, it may be time to replace your dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can exacerbate these issues and make them more difficult to treat.
- Discomfort – If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain when wearing your dentures, it may be time to replace them. This could be a sign that your dentures are ill-fitting or that they are causing irritation or inflammation in your mouth.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Dentures
Several factors can affect the lifespan of your dentures, including:
- Material – The material your dentures are made from can affect their lifespan. Porcelain dentures are typically more durable and longer-lasting than acrylic dentures.
- Quality – The quality of your dentures can also affect their lifespan. Higher-quality dentures are generally made with better materials and are more durable than lower-quality dentures.
- Care – How well you care for your dentures can also affect their lifespan. Proper cleaning and maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of your dentures and prevent damage.
- Changes in Your Dental Health – Changes in your oral health, such as gum disease or decay, can affect the lifespan of your dentures. These issues can cause changes in the shape of your mouth, which can affect the fit and function of your dentures.
How Often Should Dentures Be Replaced?
Dentures have a lifespan of about 5 to 10 years, but this can vary depending on several factors. If you take good care of your dentures and visit your dentist regularly, you may be able to extend their lifespan beyond 10 years. However, if you’re experiencing any of the signs that it’s time to replace your dentures, such as discomfort or changes in your oral health, it’s important to talk to your dentist about getting new dentures.
Your dentist can help you determine if it’s time to replace your dentures and can recommend the best type of dentures for your needs. They may also recommend that you get new dentures if your existing dentures are causing any oral health issues or if you’re experiencing any discomfort or pain when wearing them.
How to Take Care of Your Dentures and Prolong Their Lifespan
Proper care and maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of your dentures and keep them looking and feeling great. Discover useful ways to maintain your dentures:
- Clean Your Dentures Daily – Just like your natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and plaque. Use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to clean your dentures every day.
- Handle Your Dentures Carefully – Dentures are delicate and can easily break if dropped or mishandled. When you’re cleaning or handling your dentures, be sure to do so over a soft surface, such as a towel or basin of water.
- Soak Your Dentures Overnight – Soaking your dentures in a denture cleaner or water overnight can help remove any buildup of bacteria and plaque.
- Rinse Your Dentures After Eating – After you eat, rinse your dentures with water to remove any food particles or debris.
- Keep Your Dentures Moist – Dentures can dry out and become brittle if they’re not kept moist. When you’re not wearing your dentures, store them in a denture cleaning solution or water.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals – Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or alcohol, can damage your dentures. Stick to using a non-abrasive denture cleaner and avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly – Regular dental check-ups can help ensure that your dentures are fitting properly and that there are no issues with your oral health.
In addition to proper care and maintenance of your dentures, it’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly and eating a healthy diet. These habits can help prevent oral health issues and keep your natural teeth and gums healthy.
Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups for Denture Wearers
Regular dental check-ups are important for everyone, but they’re especially important for denture wearers. Here’s why:
- Oral Health – Regular dental check-ups can help ensure that your oral health is in good condition. Your dentist can check for any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues that may be affecting your dentures.
- Denture Fit – Over time, your dentures may start to lose their fit due to changes in your mouth or normal wear and tear. Your dentist can check the fit of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments or replacements.
- Oral Cancer Screening – Oral cancer is a serious health condition that can be detected early with regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can perform an oral cancer screening and check for any signs of cancer or pre-cancerous cells.
- Education – Your dentist can provide you with education and resources on how to take care of your dentures and maintain good oral health.
If you’re experiencing any discomfort or pain when wearing your dentures, or if you’ve had your dentures for more than 10 years, it’s important to talk to a trusted Etobicoke dentist about getting new dentures. Your dentist can help you determine if it’s time to replace your dentures and can recommend the best type of dentures for your needs.
Call Dr. Mark Rhody at (416) 231-4281 to book an appointment in our dental clinic in Etobicoke.