Dentures have allowed many people to enjoy a complete and beautiful smile after tooth loss. While these incredibly lifelike and comfortable appliances are quite durable, they do not last forever and will eventually need replacement due to wear and tear and the changing shape of the patient’s mouth. Here’s a brief guide to help you recognize the signs that your dentures are ready to retire and be replaced.
Your Dentures Aren’t Fitting Properly
A well-fitting pair of dentures will stay in its place in the mouth simply through natural suction. However, years of use and the changing shape of the mouth will eventually make it harder for them to fit properly. Many patients address this issue by using denture adhesive, and dentists can often perform a reline to help an appliance fit properly. However, it will eventually be necessary for a patient to be fitted for a new set of dentures so they can chew and speak comfortably.
Your Dentures Are Harming Your Gum Tissue
Dentures depend on healthy gums for support, but a poorly fitting pair can slip and slide across these vulnerable tissues. The friction this causes can lead to irritation, inflammation, and sores. This can make it quite painful to chew and, if unaddressed, can lead to nasty gum infections. If you notice any sores, lesions, or other signs of unhealthy gums, contact your dentist as soon as possible to discuss having them relined or replaced.
Your Dentures Aren’t Looking Great Anymore
One of the points of getting dentures is to enjoy a beautiful and complete smile, so a diminished appearance can be reason enough to have them replaced. Years of use can lead to the artificial teeth being broken by hard foods or stained by items high in pigments and dyes such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. Contact your dentist if you are concerned about issues like staining, discoloration, or broken teeth.
With excellent care, a pair of dentures can last for about ten years. Knowing when to have your set replaced can allow you to continue enjoying the benefits they provide while saving you from much discomfort. When it’s time to replace your false teeth, it might be a great time to consider implant dentures that are solidly anchored in the mouth, allowing them to last much longer than traditional restorations.
About the Author
Dr. Karen Littlefield Neil earned her dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and has an ample amount of continuing education credits under her belt. She is proud to serve as a Fellow of the International Academy of Implant Dentistry. Her office in Fort Worth offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. If you believe your dentures are ready to be replaced, contact her practice online or dial (817) 738-3368.