How Long Will Your Dentures Last: Signs That You Need To Replace Them
Even though modern dentures are long-lasting and composed of strong materials, they will eventually have to be changed due to regular use and accidental harm. Knowing the apparent symptoms of worn, broken, or ill-fitting dentures will help you replace them before they become a serious problem. Here are some signs that you need to see a dentist Millbrae right away.
Signs that you need to replace your dentures
When and when to replace your dentures will be determined by your dentist. Your mouth shape might change, which could be one of the possible causes of this change.
There are multiple signs that you might require a denture replacement, and if you see any of the following, it is vital to schedule a professional examination with your dentist:
1. Poor fit
As your mouth and dentures change shape over time, dentures may become loose and possibly fall out. In addition to altering how your teeth bite together, poorly fitting dentures can also make you bite on the inside of your cheek, thereby raising the risk of infection in your mouth. If your dentures seem loose, your dentist might recommend a denture reline to improve fit and shape or a denture adhesive to help keep them in place. The dentures will need to be changed if none of these options work.
2. Discomfort or pain
When you first get your dentures fitted, they could feel uncomfortable or uneasy, but this should go away as you become accustomed to wearing them. You should see your dentist to have your dentures adjusted if they start to hurt or feel uncomfortable over time. Applying denture adhesive may reduce friction and pressure, or the denture might have to be changed or relined. In order to determine whether your discomfort or pain is due to another problem that requires attention, your dentist will also check your mouth.
3. Irritation
Over time, dentures that get loose or undergo shape changes can start to shift and irritate the gums or mouth. This may lead to painful sores or lesions, as well as inflammation (swelling) if left untreated. If the gums are swollen or red, you should see your dentist. These may indicate gum disease or another dental health problem that requires attention, or you might need new dentures.
4. Having trouble speaking or chewing
Getting used to eating and talking with dentures may take some time, but once your mouth adjusts, it should come naturally. Later, if you begin to have trouble speaking or chewing, it could be a sign of loose, worn, or malformed dentures. Your dentures were probably inadequately built or fitted in the first place if they have regularly caused issues with speech or eating. An expert dental prosthetist can construct high-quality, comfortable, and valuable customized dentures.
5. Wear or damage
Natural teeth and dentures are likewise susceptible. They run the risk of being tossed in addition to being harmed by blows to the mouth or overbiting. A dental technician can fix minor surface damage to dentures, but more extensive chips, cracks, or other damage will need to be replaced. Make an emergency dental appointment if your dentures are broken. Postponing denture replacement or repairs might affect your capability to eat or speak normally, or it could put your mouth in danger of injury or infection.
6. Discoloration
Like natural teeth, dentures can get discolored by food, drink, tobacco, and other things. However, unlike stains on tooth enamel, this discoloration cannot be removed by whitening procedures or skilled cleaning.
How long will dentures last?
Depending on the condition and level of maintenance, full dentures often last five to ten years. As your mouth changes shape, even well-maintained dentures can become loose or uncomfortable. In the absence of tooth roots, the jaw bone will wear away under the gums, causing your mouth to continue changing shape.