Dentures help many people eat, speak, and smile with comfort after losing their natural teeth. But just like shoes or eyeglasses, dentures don’t last forever. Gradually, they become loose or break down and stop functioning properly. If you wear dentures, it’s important to know when they might need to be replaced to keep your mouth healthy and your smile looking its best.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Most dentures last between 5 to 10 years. It relies on the level of dental hygiene, the frequency of their usage and the natural changes in your teeth. As the shape of your gums and jawbone shifts, the fit of your dentures may no longer be right, even if they still look fine.
If you live in the Memphis, TN or Lakeland area and it’s been a while since your last check-up, it’s a good idea to have your dentures looked at by a dental professional.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Dentures
Here are a few signs that your dentures may need to be replaced:
- They Move Around or Aren’t Tight
If your dentures don’t stay in place or feel like they’re slipping when you talk or eat, they might not fit your mouth anymore.
- You Notice Sore or Irritated Skin
Dentures that don’t fit right can rub against your gums, causing pain or small sores.
- You Are Struggling with Eating
If chewing food feels harder than before, it might be because your dentures are worn down or not fitting correctly.
- They are Broken
Even small cracks can make dentures uncomfortable or unsafe to use. Don’t worry about handling them yourself; visit a dentist instead.
- Change in your Appearance
Ill-fitting dentures can affect your face, especially around the cheeks and jaw. If your face looks different, your dentures might need to be replaced.
Why Regular Checkup of Your Dentures Help
Even if your dentures seem fine, regular visits to the dentist can help catch small issues before they turn into bigger problems. Dentists can tell if your dentures need to be adjusted, relined, or fully replaced.
At Memphis Dentures and Implants, we often see people who’ve worn the same dentures for over a decade. Despite looking fine, replacing them with new ones often makes a big difference in how they feel and how well they work.
What Happens When You Get New Dentures?
Getting a new set of dentures usually involves a few simple steps:
- First visit: The dentist checks your mouth and talks to you about your current dentures.
- Impressions: A mold is made of your gums and jaw to make sure the new dentures fit well.
- Try-on: The store will provide you with a sample to check how it looks and how it fits on you.
- Final fitting: After any needed changes, you’ll get your finished dentures.
It’s simple and guarantees you feel good about your look after the procedure.
Taking Good Care of Your Dentures
To make your dentures last longer:
- Clean them every day with a soft brush.
- Soak them overnight in water or a cleaning solution.
- Don’t use hot water, which can change their shape.
- Be gentle when handling them to avoid breaks.
- Keep them in a safe place when not wearing them.
Even with the best care, though, all dentures will eventually need to be replaced.
Conclusion
If you wear dentures, it’s important to keep an eye on how they feel and fit. They usually last 5 to 10 years, but some people should change them earlier if there are issues such as pain or wear. Visiting the dentist on a regular basis helps prevent dental issues and leaves your smile healthy.
If you’re in Memphis, TN or Lakeland, schedule a visit to have your dentures checked by a professional who understands your needs
