The right set of dentures can restore chewing ability and improve pronunciation, while simultaneously boosting a person’s self-esteem. However, like any prosthetic, they have a usable lifespan and will need to be replaced eventually. Here is a brief guide about when to get a new set. 

Is It Time to Replace Your Dentures?

How Long Do They Last?

There are two basic varieties of dentures—partial and full. Partial types rely on support from healthy teeth. Some varieties of partial sets are fixed on a metal framework, much like a retainer, worn throughout the day, and removed at night. Others are permanently affixed to the smile with the help of nearby crowns. Full dentures are needed when someone has very few or none of their natural teeth remaining. This set of replacement teeth is fashioned with a plastic base like a retainer and is worn during the day and usually removed at night. 

The lifespan of partial dentures varies significantly based on the variety you choose. For instance, acrylic options only have a life expectancy of 6-12 months, while one study showed that 75% of patients wearing cast metal partials were still wearing them at the 5-year mark. 

Generally, full dentures last between 5 and 10 years, with uppers typically worn longer than lower dentures because of the impact they have on a person’s appearance. In a study that followed 328 denture wearers, 45% of uppers were worn at the 10-year mark, while only 40% of those dentures were lower prosthetics. 

What Are the Signs You Need a New Set?

Anytime they do not fit well or feel uncomfortable, you should talk with your dentist about repairs or replacements. Since your jawbone can retract over time, your dentures may need to be relined to keep you comfortable and to improve stability while talking and chewing.

You may also need to replace them anytime they experience physical damage. If they turn yellow, chip, or warp, consider a replacement. 

How Should You Care for Them?

Dentures should be rinsed after eating and removed at the end of the day for brushing and flossing. Only use denture-safe products free of abrasives that could harm the surface of the acrylic or cast metal. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean them and soak them overnight in a sanitizing solution. Soaking them prevents warping, which could impact the way the prosthetic fits. 

If your dentures aren’t fitting well or you’re concerned about the way they look, turn to Flathead Denture in Columbia Falls, MT. Since their inception in 2012, this trusted dental practice has been helping their patients with everything from creating custom full and partial denture sets to relining and fitting prosthetics to improve comfort. Learn more about how they can help by visiting their website or by giving their office a call at (406) 892-0700.