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Nothing lasts forever, and this includes even high-quality dentures. It can be tough to know when it’s the right time to replace your prosthetic, but today’s blog is going to make it relatively simple. If any of the following sounds familiar, it might be time to call your dentist and ask for an update.
1. Looseness
After your teeth go missing, they no longer stimulate the jawbone that used to hold them in place. As a result, that bone gradually shrinks over time. This is the primary reason why a denture that used to fit really well is now loose and slides all over the place. Sometimes this problem can be alleviated with a simple reline, but if enough time has gone by, it may be necessary to get a completely new denture to ensure it remains secure.
2. Sore Gums
When your mouth is getting used to a new denture, it’s normal for the gums to feel a little sore because they are being exposed to new pressure when chewing. This should typically go away after a month or so. But, if gum pain starts to come back, it may be because the base of the denture has become worn down and is starting to cause irritation. Ignoring this problem can eventually lead to sores and increase the risk of infection, so it’s best to have the denture replaced sooner rather than later.
3. Foul Odor
One of the big reasons that patients are advised to clean their dentures twice a day is to remove the bacteria that can lead to bad breath. Even if someone is a diligent brusher, however, a long-serving denture can sometimes get to the point where no amount of cleaning will get rid of an undesirable smell. This is because the material has simply absorbed so much saliva over the years, and once a denture reaches this point, replacement is the only option.
4. Staining
Just like your natural teeth, dentures can end up developing stains if they are consistently exposed to darkly pigmented foods and drinks like coffee, wine, soda, and tomato sauce. Routine oral hygiene and soaking can largely prevent this, but over time, it’s almost inevitable that the color will change. Some discoloration can be removed with dedicated cleaners, but if not, then it’s time for a new, brighter denture.
Of course, you won’t be the only person keeping an eye on your denture as time goes by. Your dentist will also want to check your prosthetic at your routine exams and cleanings, and if they notice an issue (or see signs that one might develop in the near future), they can recommend the best time to get a new prosthetic. That way, you can seamlessly transition from one denture to another so that friends and family don’t even notice.
About the Author
Dr. Allan Mohr is an award-winning cosmetic and implant dentist who has served the Massapequa area for more than three decades. Widely considered to be one of the most accomplished dentists in the US, he has helped countless patients recover and maintain their smiles using custom-made dentures. If you’re unhappy with your current denture or would be interested in upgrading with dental implants, Dr. Mohr is eager to help, and you can learn more by contacting him today.
