For most people, a set of dentures will last for about 10 years. The normal wear and tear on the dentures will take their toll, resulting in the need for replacement. While proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits can extend the lifespan of dentures by a year or a few years, they will eventually need to be repaired and later replaced.
The team at our Albuquerque, NM restorative dentistry practice would like to consider some common signs that your dentures need to be replaced. This will help you determine if you’re due for a new denture, or if a little fix is in order.
Chips and Cracks on the Denture
Visible wear and tear on the denture is typically the first sign that the appliance needs to be replaced. These chips and cracks may be on the teeth themselves, or they could be located on other parts of the appliance. Eventually, the damage will more than merely cosmetic.
Changes in Denture Fit
Dentures can feel looser in the mouth after several years, which is another common signs that the denture may require replacement. In fact, dentures may even fall out during embarrassing moments. There are two common reasons why the fit changes over time:
- The loss of bone density and gum tissue that occurs following tooth loss
- The gradual wear to the denture itself altering the shape of the appliance
Dentists can repair and adjust the denture to improve fit, but an eventual replacement will need to be made.
Pain When Biting and Chewing
Pain is never a good sign when it comes to dental health. If you notice that biting and chewing causes discomfort, discuss these problems with your dentist. This could be a sign that your dentures no longer fit properly, or it could indicate another more serious problem that would require replacement.
Sores on Gums
Sores may appear on the gums when dentures no longer fit properly. This can be a source of discomfort, and it’s not something you should have to live with. Adjustments to the denture can temporarily address these problems, but you should really replace your denture to make sure your mouth is as healthy as possible.
Sudden Speech Impediments
When a denture does not fit right, it may slip and rattle in the mouth. This can lead to speech impediments, such as lisps and slurred words.
Discoloration of the Denture
Like natural teeth, a denture is prone to changing color over time. Wear, tear, aging, and certain foods and beverages will tarnish your denture even with regular cleaning.
Repairing vs. Replacing the Denture
We’ve noted a few times above that repairs may be made to a denture rather than total replacement. This determination will be made by your dentist during a consultation at our practice. Be sure to bring up any issues with your denture during regular checkups.
Sometimes a repair can help extend the life of your dentures, though a repair may not be as effective as a total replacement. Only a trained dental health professional can make that call accurately.
Cosmetic Dentistry of New Mexico
For more information about dentures and how they can help you experience improved dental health and wellness, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist. We look forward to your visit and discussing these dental health matters with you in much greater detail.