Three signs dentures need to be replaced

Dentures are produced from high-quality materials that are carefully crafted to fit the unique contours of your particular mouth. Nonetheless, they’ll eventually need to be replaced. Here are three signs that it’s time for new dentures.

1. Your dentures are old
Although resilient, dentures deteriorate over time and small cracks and fractures may eventually appear. This is problematic as these crevices provide a home for bacteria to thrive. Oral infections, therefore, may result from using old dentures. On average, dentures last between seven and 10 years.

2. Your dentures are loose
When some or all of your natural teeth are gone, the underlying bone structure deteriorates and changes over time. It’s for this reason that dental professionals recommend having your dentures inspected and relined every two years. When changes in your jaw have become too drastic and looseness persists after relining, replacement becomes necessary.

3. You’re in pain
Dentures do more than replace teeth: they also maintain the jaw’s bone structure. However, bone loss and the gradual deterioration of dentures can impact the temporomandibular joints and lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD). The condition is characterized by jaw pain, headaches, tinnitus, earaches and facial nerve pain. A new set of custom-designed dentures can counteract this problem.

If your dentures have become old, loose or damaged, visit your denturist and get a new set made as soon as possible.