In most cases, complete dentures will need to be replaced every five to seven years.

Dentures are made from highly durable materials, but the reality is that they may need to be relined, repaired or adjusted at some stage. Wear and tear is often caused by general daily use, while changes to the structure of the face, as well as the gums and jawbones can also cause dentures to loosen over time. If you have had your dentures for a while, look out for these signs that you could benefit from a replacement…

Discomfort is a warning sign

Once you have adjusted to the feeling of dentures in your mouth, they should feel very comfortable. In fact, your dentures should look, feel and function just like natural teeth. If, however, you begin to notice some discomfort, it could be a sign that you need to have your dentures replaced. Pain and discomfort could indicate that your dentures have shifted out of place and no longer fit as they should. In this case, it is very important that you see your dentist as soon as possible. They will let you know if a replacement is necessary or if a simple adjustment is sufficient.

Chips and cracks should be addressed

Dentures are strong and durable, but they can, unfortunately, be damaged by general wear and tear over time. If they are not handled with care, or you eat particularly hard foods, it is possible for chips and cracks to occur. If you have noticed any visible damage to your dentures, such as a crack, it is likely that you will need to have them replaced. It is advisable that you consult with your dentist at the first sign of damage to your dentures, as these types of issues can affect the way that they fit in the mouth, as well as how they function.  

Stains are a concern

Without the proper care and oral hygiene habits, dentures can become stained over time. For this reason, it is very important that you clean your dentures regularly and that you see your dentist for regular check-ups. That said, if you do notice some discolouration and staining on the surface of your dentures, your best bet may be to have them replaced. Just be sure to commit to proper oral hygiene habits, and to chat to your dentist if you need information regarding the maintenance and care of your appliance.

Chewing problems must be resolved

If you find that chewing has become more and more uncomfortable or difficult over time, it could be a sign that your dentures are no longer fitting as they should. Dentures should make oral functions like biting and chewing easier, so if you have noticed some loosening or instability, it is possible that you need to have your dentures replaced.

How can we help?

At Impressions Dental, we specialise in dentures, and offer a broad range of services. No matter what your needs are, we are available to help. Some of the dentures that we offer include removeable dentures, partial dentures and implant dentures. If you are looking for a solution for missing teeth and aren’t sure which treatment is best for you, we encourage you to come in and see us. We will assess your oral health and discuss your particular needs with you before recommending an appropriate treatment.

The team at Impressions Dental also offers check-ups for patients with dentures, as well as reline and repair services. If are concerned about the way that your dentures fit, be sure to arrange a check-up as soon as possible. We generally recommend that removable dentures are relined every three to five years, and that implant-supported dentures are relined every two years. If you experience discomfort or damages, we may recommend that you have your dentures replaced, but we will let you know after a thorough assessment.