Dentures, also known as removable fake teeth, are dental prosthetics custom-designed to replace missing teeth and restore oral function. They provide a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution for people who have lost their natural teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury.
With all this talk of dentures, you may be wondering, “How Long Do Dentures Last?” The longevity of dentures depends upon several factors, such as their quality, oral hygiene practices followed by you, and changes that occur in your mouth.
Dentures are durable, but they aren’t meant to last a lifetime. It’s critical to understand the typical lifespan of dentures and the indicators that suggest it’s time to replace them to glean better how long dentures can last. You can extend the life of your dentures and maintain a confident smile by being informed about denture care and maintenance.
Signs that Your Dentures Need Replacement
Dentures are made to be durable, but they are not meant to endure forever. Wear and tear can impact their fit, function, and overall appearance over time. Recognizing the indicators that your dentures may need to be changed is critical.
By detecting these warning signals early on, you can avoid discomfort and oral health problems and ensure peak performance. Here are four signs showing that your dentures need a replacement:
- Loose fit/ falling Out
- Difficulty in speaking
- Harming your gum tissues
- Damaged or discolored
Your Dentures Feel Loose or Are Falling Out
A properly fitting set of dentures should stay firmly in place during daily activities such as chewing and speaking. If you see your dentures growing loose or slipping out of your mouth, it indicates that they need to be adjusted or replaced. A quick patch with denture adhesive is a short-term answer.
Difficulty Speaking Clearly
If you have difficulty articulating words clearly and observe a slushy or slurred speech pattern, it is likely due to the loose fit of your dentures. You will need to visit your dentist to get your dentures adjusted or replaced to guarantee a correct fit if you want to regain clear speaking.
Discomfort or Gum Tissue Irritation
Dentures in good condition that fit properly should not cause pain or discomfort in your gum tissue. If you experience pain or discomfort during chewing or biting, it may signal that your dentures need to be replaced.
Furthermore, if you discover sores, lesions, or other changes in the health of your gums, you should see a dentist right away for denture refitting or replacement.
Damaged or Discolored Dentures
Chips, cracks, or loose teeth in your dentures are clear signs that replacement is necessary. Discoloration of the denture teeth is also a valid reason for considering a replacement.
While proper care can delay discoloration, dentures may become yellowed or discolored over time, especially if frequently exposed to staining substances like coffee, wine, or tea during wear.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
“According to numerous dental specialists, dentures last up to five to ten years.”
However, it is crucial to note that with proper care and required maintenance, you can extend the life of your dentures. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding habits that can harm your dentures, such as chewing on hard items, can all help to keep them in good shape.
Furthermore, scheduling frequent dental check-ups ensures that any difficulties or essential changes are addressed as soon as possible, extending the total lifespan of your dentures. By adopting proactive measures, you can make the most of your dentures and enjoy their benefits for longer.
Longevity of Different Types of Denture
How Long Do Partial and Complete Dentures Last?
“Statistical data shows that normally, complete dentures last between five and ten years. Partial dentures, on the other hand, have a maximum lifespan of 15 years.”
It’s vital to note that your mouth and dentures can change significantly throughout this time, resulting in an improper fit and an aesthetically unappealing appearance.
How Long Do Immediate Dentures Last?
A third type of denture, immediate or temporary, has a shorter lifespan measured in months. These dentures are delivered by your dentist immediately after your natural teeth have been extracted and serve as a temporary option until your permanent dentures are available. Immediate dentures are typically worn for two to three months before being replaced by the final set.
How Can I Increase the Lifespan of Dentures?
The level of maintenance given to dentures has a big impact on how long they last.
- Dentures must be cleaned every day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleanser to maintain their lifespan.
- Removing your dentures at night gives your gums a chance to recover, improving oral health. The dentures may become stained, cracked, or warped if adequate maintenance is neglected.
- The lifespan of dentures is also significantly influenced by the wearer’s oral health. Poor dental hygiene makes people more prone to gum disease, which can lead to the shrinking of the gums and loose dentures.
- Infections brought on by gum disease can affect bone density and gum tissue that help support the teeth. The durability of dentures and dental implants depends on proper oral hygiene habits.
Factors Affecting Longevity of Dentures
The kind of dentures you select is one of several variables that affect the longevity of your dentures. Three categories of dentures are distinguished:
- Premium
- Deluxe
- Economical
The durability of economical dentures may be less than that of premium and deluxe choices. How the dentures are positioned in your mouth also affects how long they last.
Temporary dentures last for a limited period. They are more vulnerable to damage since they are frequently taken out of the mouth. Additionally, food particles are more likely to become wedged between temporary dentures and the gums, placing pressure that may cause harm.
Contrarily, implant-supported dentures offer a long-lasting remedy that stops food particles from creating these problems. When choosing the right type of dentures and properly caring for them, you may considerably increase their lifespan and guarantee long-term happiness.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Dentures
- Removing and rinsing your dentures with warm water after eating and drinking is imperative to avoid the buildup of food particles and debris.
- Take time cleaning your dentures because they are delicate and prone to breaking. Always clean and remove dentures over a sink of water or a folded towel to avoid damage if they are dropped.
- Keep strong chemicals away from your dentures. Avoid using strong toothpaste or teeth whitening products since abrasive toothpaste can harm your dentures, and whitening products can change their color.
- It is advised against wearing your dentures to bed. Remove them before bed to give your mouth a break.
- Soak your dentures in warm or cool water for overnight storage. The form of your dentures could be warped if you use extremely hot water.
- If your dentures break, call your dentist instead of attempting to restore them on your own. DIY fixes may result in further damage.
- If you use denture glue, apply the recommended dosage according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Wash the dentures’ adhesive with water, light soap, and a soft-bristled toothbrush every evening.
Dentures at River’s Bend Family Dental
River’s Bend Family Dental is the best option for dentures if you require them. Our qualified specialists are committed to helping you find the best solution for your unique needs. We will work with you to choose the best solution that fits your lifestyle and budget, whether you need a full set of dentures or a partial set.
Give us a call at 763-576-1855. You can also contact us by visiting our office at 14061 St. Francis Blvd NW, Ramsey, MN, 55303.
