Your dentures are a durable, natural-looking way to replace lost teeth, but unfortunately, they don’t last forever. Though most pairs will last up to ten years with proper care and maintenance, sometimes they need to be repaired or replaced a little sooner. Here’s how to tell if it’s time for new prosthetics, and what you can do to ensure that they last as long as possible.
Warning Sign #1: Bad Fit
When your dentures are brand new, they typically fit like a glove after a brief adjustment period. With proper care and use, they should continue to stay in place comfortably. However, if you notice they are not fitting securely, slipping when you eat or speak, or they feel uncomfortable to wear, this could be a sign that it’s time for a new pair. Dentures can change shape with time if you do not keep them properly hydrated, and because your jawbone can deteriorate without the constant stimulation of real teeth, your arches can alter their shape as well.
Warning Sign #2: Broken Teeth
If the crowns (teeth) of your dentures are broken, missing, or discolored this is a good indication that it’s time to replace them. Most dentures last up to ten years with proper care, however they should be replaced sooner if any portion of the prosthetic is damaged. It is possible to repair certain types of breakage, so schedule an appointment with your dentist to have them evaluated as soon as possible.
Warning Sign #3: Stains or Discoloration
Though your dentures are prosthetic, they can still chew your food like real teeth. Unfortunately, they can also stain like their natural counterparts, too, but with dentures once they’re stained, there’s really no easy way to restore their original luster. Thus, if yours are showing signs of discoloration, it could be time for a fresh pair.
Warning Sign #4: Broken Base
The base or gums of your denture are very important. They are what holds the crowns in place, and the prosthetics themselves to your arches. If this part is not in good working order, your dentures can become very uncomfortable and could fail to stay on properly. Worse yet, they can even injure your mouth, and cracks can be an entry point for dangerous bacteria that could cause bad breath and infection.
How to Keep Your Dentures Healthy
While they’re not real teeth and gums, your dentures still require some care and maintenance to stay in good shape. To ensure that they last as long as possible, be sure to use the following care steps daily:
- Completely remove your dentures twice a day for cleaning.
- Always protect them by lining your sink and countertop with a towel in case you drop them during the cleaning process.
- Gently brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Clean the entire denture, including the teeth and gum base, with a mild hand soap or dish detergent.
- Soak your dentures in water or denture soak every single night.
- Always remove your dentures while you sleep.
- Never use your dentures for anything but chewing food. Do not use them to tear packaging, bite fingernails, or chew on objects like pen caps.
- Do not smoke.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for regular oral health/ denture check-ups.
- Notify your dentist immediately if you notice any signs of damage.
Remember, keeping your dentures looking clean and fitting comfortably is essential to enjoying them for as long as possible. If you notice any of the aforementioned warning signs, contact your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation, and be sure to take proper care of them every day.
About the Practice
Dr. Caleb Goodman offers expert general and emergency dental care in Goodyear, AZ. With a gentle, patient-first approach, our team provides thorough evaluations, pain-free tooth extractions, and comprehensive post-op support to help patients recover quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency tooth extraction or a planned procedure, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Call us at (623) 925-8822 or request an appointment online.