How Long Should Your Dentures Last?

If you have dentures or are thinking about getting them, you are likely wondering how long they will last. The answer to this question hinges on the quality of the dentures and your willingness to take care of them in the proper manner.

However, dentures will not last forever even if you clean them exactly as instructed by your dentist.

Here is a closer look at the anticipated lifespan for dentures.

Denture Lifespan

Dentures tend to last about seven years. In some cases, dentures will last upwards of a decade or longer. Dentures that are not taken care of in the proper manner, poorly made or defective might last as few as five years. In extreme cases, dentures last upwards of 30 years.

What matters most is that dentures are properly cared for and that proper oral hygiene is practiced. Follow your dentist's instructions pertaining to denture care and you will maximize their lifespan.

Repair vs. Replacement

Dentures will eventually fail in due time. However, a denture malfunction does not mean that replacement is the only option. Revisions to dentures are sometimes necessary since gum lines change. Furthermore, general wear and tear also impact the functionality and lifespan of the dentures.

In some cases, dentists can rebase or reline dentures to prevent a full replacement. If you are unhappy with the fit or feel of your dentures in any way, reach out to a dentist for assistance. Thankfully, most dentures do not pose problems that require repair or replacement until after 5-10 years.

Factors That Play a Role in Denture Lifespan

The longevity of your dentures partially depends on the type of dentures. There are three denture categories: premium, deluxe and economy. By choosing the economy variety, you will find their durability is inferior to the premium and deluxe versions. Even the placement of the dentures in your mouth plays an important role in their lifespan.

Temporary dentures do not last as long for a variety of reasons. The temporary variety requires removal from the mouth with regularity, making them that much more vulnerable to wear and tear. It is also that much easier for bits of food to move below temporary dentures to stick between them and the gums. Food in such a tight space puts pressure on the dentures, eventually causing a break. Implant-supported dentures are permanent so food particles cannot move in and cause problems.

You Have the Power to Prolong the Lifespan of Your Dentures

Dentures require regular cleaning and maintenance. Relining is an especially important component of denture maintenance. Be proactive, visit with your dentist to have your dentures relined and they will sit nice and flush to close gaps.

Such relining is necessary as the jaw regularly shrinks due to tooth loss. Jaw shrinkage prevents compromises denture fit, ultimately sabotaging their longevity. Have your dentures refit every couple of years, clean your dentures with a soft-bristled brush and soak them each night to prolong their longevity.

That's not all…

For more denture information or to schedule a dental appointment with Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc, request an appointment in our Red Bluff dental office here: https://www.drelloway.com. Or call us at (530) 527-6777.