Dentures are dental appliances often made of porcelain, acrylic, or metal and used to replace lost teeth or those damaged by cavities. Gaps left by lost teeth can cause speech problems, affect digestion, and lead to oral health problems like jawbone loss. When evaluating whether to get dentures, talk to an expert. At Splendid Dental Bellaire, we can answer all of your dentures-related questions and determine your best course of action.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Most of these appliances can last for approximately five to ten years, depending on a wide range of factors. For example, dentures made of hard substances like porcelain are likely to last longer than those made of plastic. Other than that, the method used in cleaning and storing them may influence their lifespan.
The mouth and denture structure can change over time and affect how this appliance fits. Hence, younger people who have a firm, healthy gum can use devices for over ten years if they observe proper care. On the other hand, older adults and those with oral health problems such as jaw bone loss may need more regular replacements.
How to Identify Worn Out Dentures
Worn out dental dentures have an unappealing appearance and can affect dental health if not replaced. Thus, it is essential to observe various factors that may indicate when to get new appliances. One of the most common signs of damaged dentures is experiencing gum swelling when wearing them. This pain occurs from excess pressure on some parts of the mouth, causing gum irritation and sometimes tissue damage. These dental appliances may also make a clicking sound when a user talks and have an uneven texture or color. Other signs of worn-out dentures include:
- Experiencing chewing difficulties
- Changes in how the teeth fit in a closed mouth
- The denture may have a persistent foul odor
- Changes in speech patterns
Due to the varying dental appliances’ lifespans, visiting a dentist at least once per year for denture evaluation is vital. The specialist can assess the appearance of these devices and how they fit to determine their effectiveness.
Depending on the dentures’ condition, a dentist can advise repairing worn out parts or getting new appliances. They may also recommend other implant services that provide a long-lasting teeth replacement solution.
How to Maintain Dentures
Proper maintenance of dentures can increase their lifespan and help prevent adverse effects caused by worn-out devices. One of the essential maintenance practices is cleaning them twice daily to eliminate leftover food particles and avoid plaque build-up. In most cases, dentists advise using a denture solution or mild soap with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush for cleaning.
If you use an adhesive to attach dentures to the gum, you should also clean the groove to remove leftover glue. After this process, brush using fluoride toothpaste to eliminate any adhesive remaining on the gum and kill harmful bacteria. Other ways you can maintain these dental appliances include:
- Avoiding hard foods that can break the appliance
- Soaking the devices overnight to moisten and maintain their shape
- Using a denture solution to rinse before use
- Avoiding abrasive cleaning products
- Storing them in a safe place to avoid breakage
Contact Splendid Dental Bellaire For Quality Dentures
When considering teeth replacement, it is crucial to consult a dentist who can advise on the most appropriate type and model. At Splendid Dental Bellaire, we provide various teeth replacement options to restore your smile and confidence. Our specialist can answer any questions and advise a patient on alternative implant services. They can also assess your oral health and needs to determine which appliance is most suitable. Reach out to Splendid Dental Bellaire now at 713-244-7797 to book an appointment.
