The question that will pop up in your mind as soon as you get your new dentures is “how long will my dentures last?” The answer cannot be definite as it varies from user to user. Moreover, the fact is that dentures do not last a lifetime.
Average Lifespan of Dentures
The normal life for dentures is 5 to 7 years because dentures too are subject to wear and tear just like natural teeth. The trick lies in visiting your dentist periodically and having your dentures adjusted to prolong the lifespan. In between, if you feel any irritation in your gums you need to visit your dentist to check your dentures and have them adjusted.
Getting a new set of dentures, whether partial or complete is the best alternative to replace missing natural teeth. Getting dentures enable people with missing teeth lead normal lives as they can bite, chew, eat, talk, smile like before with confidence.
Dentures are custom-made as they need to fit exactly into the gap caused by missing teeth. Partial dentures are made to replace a missing tooth or two and if all the teeth are missing, a complete denture is made depending on the condition of the gums and underlying bone. Even complete dentures can last 5 years or more and will have to be relined and readjusted based on the changes taking place in the oral cavity.
How Often Should Dentures Be Replaced?
Actually speaking, there is not much of wear and tear in the dentures. Dentures need not be replaced if they do not loosen. Loosening of dentures takes place only when there is resorption of the jaw bone or erosion of the gums. Dentures need to be replaced based on the condition of the oral cavity. Surprisingly, if the jawbone and gums remain unchanged even after 5 to 7 years, there is no need for replacing the dentures. However, this is quite rare as the bone structure and gums change with age, affecting the fit of the dentures.
While it is advisable to visit your dentist twice a year for regular checkups, dentures would need relining/replacing once in 5 to 7 years. Dentures too tend to get stained depending on the type of food you eat. The same cleaning process used for natural teeth can be applied for dentures as well. Even though you can remove your dentures and clean them, avoid using any chemical-based cleaning agents as they can react with the plastic. Regular toothpaste should be used to clean dentures. For whitening, visit your dentist who will suggest best whitening methods for dentures. Do-it-yourself kits are available, and you can clean your dentures by following the instructions.
Overall, it is safe to wear dentures, which make great replacements for missing natural teeth. Fixing dentures with denture paste can extend the life of your dentures and also help prevent onset of gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis. Maintaining oral hygiene and following your dentist’s advice go a long way in keeping your dentures safe and extend their life as well.