The denture serves as a comfortable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth, but they do not last forever. They may wear down, lose their fit, or become damaged over time. If you are experiencing discomfort or difficulty while eating, it may be time for an adjustment or replacement. Dentures in Waterloo provide a reliable solution for restoring your smile, but knowing when to replace them is important.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
The life of dentures varies depending on daily usage, maintenance, and your mouth changes. On average, they may last between five and ten years. But the normal wear and tear, gum contraction, and jaw shifting can influence their fit over time.
Adequate care will prolong their lifespan, but eventually, they must be replaced. Regular dental exams will tell you if they still fit properly or need to be repaired.
Usual Signs You Need New Dentures
If your dentures are no longer as comfortable as they used to be, you may want to think about a new set. The following are usual signs that you might need a replacement:
1. Constant Soreness or Irritation
Comfortably fitted dentures should be comfortable to wear in your mouth. Soreness, irritation, or gum pain can occur from poor alignment or misfit. With time, the changes in your gums and jawbone can cause discomfort, and you would need adjustments or a new one.
Visiting a dentist near you can help figure out if you would just require a simple adjustment or a new one.
2. Difficulty Eating or Speaking
Your dentures must permit you to chew and speak comfortably. If your food does not chew easily or if your speech has altered, your dentures may be loose or worn out. Inability to articulate properly or slipping of the denture during conversation are unmistakable symptoms that indicate something is amiss.
A specialized assessment at a dental clinic in Waterloo can diagnose whether your dentures need repairing or replacing so that their efficiency is restored.
3. Visible Wear and Tear
Dentures can become worn out over time, creating cracks, chips, or other forms of damage. Worn-out artificial teeth not only affect your appearance but also your chewing ability. Small cracks can also harbour bacteria, causing oral issues.
Scheduled inspections detect trouble before it intensifies. If your dentures are worn out or stained, a replacement could be necessary.
4. Loose or Shifting Fit
A denture that fits properly should remain in position without undue movement. If your dentures become loose or constantly shift when speaking or eating, it could signal alterations in the structure of your jaw. Due to the reduction in gums over time, the denture’s fit will no longer be stable and will need to be replaced or relined.
Seeking professional advice from a dentures near you service will be able to establish the ideal course of treatment to enhance stability and comfort.
5. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
Dentures need to be washed daily to avoid the accumulation of plaque. Damaged or aged dentures may harbour bacteria within crevices, causing persistent bad breath or a foul mouth taste. When proper cleaning doesn’t work, your dentures will require professional maintenance or replacement.
Proper oral hygiene and a visit to a dentist for routine cleaning will prevent bacterial growth and keep dentures fresh.
Repair or Replacement: What’s Best?
Not all denture issues require complete replacement. Some can be lengthened by repair or relining. Here’s how to choose the best for you:
- Minor Damage: Minor chips or cracks can be fixed without replacing the entire set.
- Loose Fit: If your dentures feel loose but not excessively so, a professional relining will snug them up.
- Severe Wear or Damage: If they are severely worn, stained, or no longer fitting, replacing them is the best option.
A dental professional can examine your dentures and suggest the best solution.
How to Make Your Dentures Last Longer
Proper care and maintenance might make your dentures last longer. To maintain them in a healthy state, refer to the following suggestions:
1. Wash Them Regularly
Brush your dentures with a soft-bristled toothbrush and soap or a denture cleaner. Do not use toothpaste, which is too harsh and can damage them.
2. Soak Them Overnight
Moistening dentures keeps them in shape. Store them in water or denture solution when they’re not being worn.
3. Handle with Care
Drilling them could cause cracks or breaks. Support them always over a soft cloth or in a water-filled sink to prevent damage.
4. Check with Your Dentist Regularly
Periodic dental visits will keep your dentures in the correct shape and fit. A dentist can catch issues early and make any necessary adjustments.
Restore Your Smile with Professional Care
If your dentures hurt, feel odd, or are worn, they might need to be replaced. At Harmony Dental Care, our skilled staff offers customized care to ensure you can enjoy a comfortable, confident smile. Our trusted dentist in Waterloo can evaluate your situation and tell you the most suitable option for long-term success. Book an appointment now and take advantage of a more comfortable, healthier smile!