Dentures are an important solution for those who have lost their natural teeth due to various reasons such as tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma. Whether you have partial dentures, full dentures, or removable dentures, they are designed to restore function and appearance to your smile. However, one common question arises: how long do dentures last?

In this extensive guide, we will explore the lifespan of dentures, the factors that can influence how long they last, and the proper care and maintenance needed to ensure they stay in optimal condition. We will also look at the different types of dentures when you might need to replace missing teeth and the signs that your dentures may need to be replaced.

Types of Dentures

Before discussing the lifespan and care of dentures, let’s first examine the available types. Your type can affect how long your dentures last and the care required.

1. Full Dentures

Full or complete dentures are designed for patients who have lost all their natural teeth. They replace an entire arch of teeth and are typically custom-made to fit snugly over the gum tissue. Full dentures are held in place by suction or adhesive and are removable for cleaning and maintenance.

Full dentures may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years, depending on factors like wear, jaw or gum tissue changes, and the material used in their construction.

2. Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are designed for patients who still have some remaining teeth. These dentures are made to fill the gaps left by missing teeth and are typically attached to the natural teeth using metal clasps or crowns. Partial dentures are removable, like full dentures, and require regular cleaning and maintenance.

Partial dentures may last 5 to 15 years, depending on their materials, how well they are maintained, and how much wear they experience from daily use. However, they may need adjustments over time to accommodate changes in the alignment of the remaining teeth or the gum tissue.

3. Implant-Supported Dentures

Dental implants are a permanent alternative to traditional dentures. These are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a denture, providing a more stable fit than removable options. The benefit of implant-supported dentures is that they fit properly and reduce the chances of loosening or discomfort. Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.

While implant-supported dentures typically offer a longer-lasting solution, a dental professional or a dentist in Dubbo at Advanced Dental Care clinic must evaluate the gum tissue and jaw for compatibility before placement.

Factors That Affect How Long Dentures Last

Several factors influence the lifespan of your dentures. Understanding these can help you make the most out of your dentures and prevent the need for early replacements.

1. Material Quality

The materials used to make your dentures significantly affect their durability. Higher quality materials, such as acrylic resin, porcelain, or metal frameworks, tend to last longer and provide a more natural-looking result. Porcelain dentures, for example, are often more durable than acrylic dentures and are less prone to staining or wear. However, they can also be more expensive.

2. Denture Care

How well you care for your dentures directly impacts their lifespan. Cleaning dentures regularly with a brush, mild soap, or a special denture cleaner is essential for maintaining their function and appearance. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and debris ensures your dentures stay clean without causing damage. Denture adhesive should be used sparingly, and dentures should be kept moist when not in use to avoid warping or cracking.

To maintain overall oral health, it’s also important to remove plaque from your gums and any remaining natural teeth.

3. Changes in Jaw or Gum Tissue

Your jawbone and gum tissue may change as you wear dentures over time. Tooth loss can lead to bone resorption, where the bone shrinks and changes shape. This can cause your dentures to fit poorly, leading to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and possible denture sores.

As the gums change, dentures may no longer fit properly or securely. If this occurs, adjustments or relining by a dental professional may be needed. Over time, denture repair may become necessary.

4. Wear and Tear

Like any other item that undergoes regular use, dentures can experience wear and tear. Partial dentures may wear down over time, especially if used to chew harder foods. Full dentures are also subject to wear from chewing and biting, which can cause them to become loose or less comfortable. The gum tissue can also change over time, affecting how well the dentures fit.

If you wear dentures regularly, they may need replacing every 5 to 10 years, depending on the wear and changes in your mouth.

5. Dental Maintenance and Adjustments

Regular dentist or dental professional visits are important for keeping your dentures in good condition. Dentures often require periodic adjustments to ensure they fit comfortably and remain functional. Over time, the shape of your mouth and the alignment of your teeth can shift, affecting how your dentures sit. A dentist can help assess the fit and provide the necessary adjustments to improve comfort and ensure optimal performance.

6. Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle can also affect the longevity of your dentures. Habits like smoking, drinking coffee, or consuming staining foods can cause false teeth to discolor or degrade more quickly. Additionally, certain medications may affect saliva production, impacting the fit and comfort of removable dentures. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper hydration and a balanced diet, can help protect your dentures and oral health.

7. Denture Repair and Maintenance

Denture repair is necessary if your dentures become cracked, broken, or worn down. Repairing dentures when problems arise can prevent further damage and extend their lifespan. A dental lab can perform repairs, or your dentist may be able to make quick adjustments in their office. However, replacing dentures may be the best option if the damage is extensive.

Signs That Your Dentures Need to Be Replaced

Knowing when dentures must be replaced is essential for maintaining good oral health and avoiding discomfort. Here are the signs that your dentures may need to be replaced:

1. Loose Fit

If your dentures are no longer fitting securely, they may be due for replacement. Loose dentures can lead to gum irritation, sore spots, and difficulties with chewing or speaking. If adjustments don’t improve the fit, it may be time to consider replacing dentures altogether.

2. Cracks or Chips

If your dentures have visible cracks, chips, or damage, it’s important to have them evaluated by your dentist. Although minor damage can sometimes be repaired, larger cracks may compromise the structure and function of your dentures.

3. Changes in Bite

If you notice changes in how your bite feels, such as difficulty chewing or discomfort when your teeth meet, this could indicate that your dentures are no longer properly aligned. Dental bridges or other solutions may be needed to restore functionality.

4. Staining or Discoloration

Over time, dentures may become stained or discolored due to food, drink, or smoking. While regular cleaning can prevent this, significant staining that cannot be removed may require replacing dentures to restore their natural appearance.

5. Wear and Tear

If your dentures show signs of excessive wear, such as a flattened bite or thinning teeth, it’s time to consult a dental professional. Dental implants or a new set of dentures may be recommended to ensure the best fit and appearance.

How to Extend the Life of Your Dentures

In this section, we will discuss practical ways to extend the life of your dentures and maintain the quality of your artificial teeth. By following these steps, you can help prevent damage, ensure a comfortable fit, and prolong the lifespan of your full or partial dentures.

1. Clean Your Dentures Regularly

One of the most essential aspects of caring for your new dentures or artificial teeth is keeping them clean. Regular cleaning removes plaque, bacteria, and food particles that can build up on the surface of your dentures, which could lead to stains, odors, or even infections.

Cleaning Tips:

• Use a denture brush: A denture brush is designed to clean artificial teeth. It has softer bristles than a regular toothbrush and is effective in removing food particles and plaque without causing scratches.
• Use mild soap or denture cleaner: Avoid regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive and may scratch the surface of your dentures. Instead, wash them daily with mild soap or a denture cleaner.
• Brush gently: Full or partial dentures should be brushed gently to avoid damaging the material or the gum tissue underneath. Make sure to clean both the teeth and the gumline of the dentures.
• Rinse after eating: After every meal, remove your dentures and rinse them under lukewarm water to remove any food debris.

2. Soak Dentures Overnight

Just as you need to rest your natural teeth, new dentures must also rest. When not in use, soak your artificial teeth in a cleaning solution to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out or warping.

Soaking Tips:

• Use a denture soak: A denture soak is specifically formulated to clean and disinfect your dentures while keeping them moist. It can also help remove stains and ensure the dentures remain flexible and comfortable when worn again.
• Choose the right solution: Various soaking solutions are available, including those that help disinfect and those designed to clean and polish. If you have partial dentures, ensure the solution is safe for your specific type of denture.
• Do not soak in hot water: Hot water can cause dentures to warp, so always use room temperature or lukewarm water for soaking.

3. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods

While full or partial dentures are designed to withstand chewing, they can be damaged by hard, sticky, or crunchy foods. Over time, these foods can cause dentures to wear down, crack, or lose shape.

Food Tips:

• Avoid hard foods: Foods like hard candy, ice, or nuts can put undue pressure on your artificial teeth and cause them to crack or break. If you enjoy such foods, it is best to consume them cautiously or avoid them entirely.
• Steer clear of sticky foods: Sticky foods such as caramel, toffee, or chewing gum can get stuck on your dentures, making them difficult to clean and potentially causing the material to weaken over time.
• Cut food into smaller pieces: When eating, cutting food into smaller, manageable pieces can reduce the stress on your dentures and prevent unintentional damage.

4. Store Your Dentures Properly

Proper storage is vital for maintaining the fit and function of your dentures. It’s important to store them safely to avoid damage when not in use. Additionally, storing dentures in a dry environment or allowing them to dry out can cause the material to warp, resulting in poor fit and discomfort.

Storage Tips:

• Keep dentures in water: When not wearing them, store them in a container filled with water or denture solution to prevent them from drying out. This is particularly important for full dentures, which rely on moisture to keep their shape and flexibility.
• Avoid storage in hot or dry environments: Never leave your dentures in direct sunlight, on hot surfaces, or in a dry environment, as this can cause them to crack or lose shape. Store them in a cool, moist environment when not in use.
• Use a case: When storing your dentures, especially when traveling, keep them in a protective case. This helps avoid damage from accidental drops or exposure to dirt and debris.

5. Be Gentle With Your Dentures

Dentures are delicate appliances, and rough handling can lead to breakage or discomfort. It’s essential to handle them gently to prevent damage.

Handling Tips:

• Handle with care: Always hold dentures gently when cleaning, removing, or inserting them. Dropping your dentures can cause them to crack or chip, which can lead to the need for denture repair.
• Avoid excessive force: When inserting or removing full dentures, avoid excessive force. If your dentures don’t fit properly, use an adhesive or consult a dental professional for adjustments.

6. Check the Fit Regularly

Over time, your gums and jawbone can change, which may cause your dentures to fit less snugly. A loose fit can lead to discomfort, sores, and difficulties with chewing and speaking. Regularly checking the fit of your partial or full dentures is essential for maintaining comfort and effectiveness.

Fit Tips:

• Watch for signs of discomfort: If your dentures start to feel loose, uncomfortable, or irritated, it may be time for an adjustment. Dentures fitting poorly can lead to gum sores, which can become painful and interfere with daily activities.
• Seek professional adjustments: If your dentures become loose or misaligned, your dentist can help you adjust their fit. Denture repair is essential for maintaining a comfortable and functional fit.

7. Get Regular Check-ups and Adjustments

Even with the best care, dentures will eventually need professional attention. Regular check-ups with your dentist will help ensure that your dentures remain in good condition and continue to fit well. As you age and experience changes in your gum tissue or jawbone, your dentures may need to be replaced or adjusted.

Check-up Tips:

• Regular dental visits: Schedule regular dental appointments to check your dentures for signs of wear or misalignment. Your dentist will assess the fit and recommend any necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Periodic relining: As your gums change over time, your dentures may require a relining to ensure they fit snugly. This will help prevent discomfort and improve functionality.
• Replacements when needed: If your dentures have worn out or damaged, it may be time for a replacement. Your dentist can recommend whether replacing dentures is the best course of action.

8. Consider Denture Adhesive for Extra Security

If dentures feel loose or shift while eating or speaking, a denture adhesive can help provide additional stability. Denture adhesive creates a secure bond between the dentures and your gum tissue, giving you confidence in the fit and preventing discomfort caused by shifting.

Adhesive Tips:

• Use sparingly: Apply denture adhesive sparingly, as too much can lead to discomfort or difficulty removing the dentures. Make sure to clean your dentures thoroughly before applying the adhesive.
• Choose the right product: Several types of denture adhesives are available, including creams, powders, and strips. Choose the one that works best for your dentures and personal preference.

9. Consider Alternatives to Dentures for Long-Term Use

While dentures can last a long time with proper care, they may not be the best solution for everyone. Dental implants could be an option if you’re looking for a more permanent, stable solution. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and offer a permanent alternative to dentures, providing greater comfort, stability, and long-term durability.

Implant Options:

• Single-tooth implants: If you’ve lost a single tooth, a dental implant can replace it without needing a partial denture.
• Full-arch implants: Implant-supported dentures can provide a more stable, long-lasting solution for those who need to replace all their missing teeth.

Conclusion

Dentures are an excellent solution for missing teeth, whether you have partial dentures or full dentures. While the lifespan of dentures can vary, with proper care and maintenance, they can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Factors such as material quality, wear and tear, and changes in gum tissue can all affect the longevity of your dentures. Regular visits to your Campbelltown dentist, proper cleaning, and timely adjustments are crucial for extending your life. If dentures are damaged or no longer fit properly, replacing dentures may be necessary to maintain oral health and comfort. With the right care, your dentures can continue to enhance your smile for many years.

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/

https://www.polident.com/en-us/full-dentures/denture-care/how-long-do-dentures-last/#:~:text=Your%20dentures%20should%20last%20for,or%20changes%20in%20your%20mouth.&text=In%20general%2C%20dentures%20that%20are,are%20a%20candidate%20for%20replacement.

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10900-dentures