How Long Do Dentures Last?
Dentures play a vital role in restoring your smile and oral function after tooth loss.
Whether you’ve lost teeth due to age, decay, or injury, dentures provide a reliable, affordable solution that helps you regain confidence and comfort.
However, many patients often ask, “How long do dentures last?” The answer depends on several factors, including material quality, oral care habits, and ongoing dental support.
In this guide, we’ll explore the typical lifespan of dentures, signs it’s time for replacement, and ways to make your dentures last longer.
Plus, we’ll introduce you to one of the top-rated dental clinics in Ontario—Family Dentistry on Brock—offering complete denture services and more in Brock Tillsonburg.
Average Lifespan of Dentures
Generally, dentures last between 5 to 10 years. With good care and regular dental checkups, some may last longer, while others may need replacement sooner.
Over time, your mouth naturally changes—bone loss, shifting gums, and wear on the denture material can lead to a poor fit and reduced functionality.
Regular assessments at a reputable Dental Clinic in Tillsonburg can help identify when it’s time to reline or replace your dentures before serious discomfort or oral health problems arise.
Factors That Affect Denture Longevity
1. Material Quality and Type
Dentures can be made from acrylic, metal, or flexible polymers. Acrylic is common due to affordability, but may wear down quicker.
Higher-end materials tend to last longer and resist staining or damage. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your oral health, needs, and budget.
If you’re considering alternatives for tooth replacement, Dental Implants in Tillsonburg are a more permanent and durable solution.
They fuse with the jawbone and can support crowns or even implant-retained dentures.
2. Oral Hygiene Habits
How well you care for your dentures and remaining teeth plays a significant role in their longevity. Daily cleaning, soaking, and handling with care are essential steps.
Improper care can lead to plaque buildup, stains, bad breath, and fungal infections.
Pairing dentures with cosmetic options like Dental Veneers in Brock Tillsonburg can also enhance your smile if you have healthy remaining teeth that need aesthetic improvements.
3. Jawbone and Gum Changes
Over time, the bone and gum tissues underneath your dentures shrink due to lack of natural tooth roots.
This affects how your dentures fit and feel, leading to looseness, irritation, or sores. A proper fit is crucial to prevent complications.
Visiting an Emergency Dentist in Tillsonburg when your dentures suddenly become uncomfortable or damaged can help avoid further issues and reduce downtime.
How to Make Dentures Last Longer
Even if your dentures aren’t permanent, you can extend their life with consistent care and smart practices:
- Clean them daily with non-abrasive denture cleaners and a soft brush.
- Soak them overnight in a dentist-approved solution to retain moisture and shape.
- Avoid chewing hard objects, including ice, nuts, or pens.
- Handle with care, especially during cleaning.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and relines if needed.
Choosing a trusted provider like Family Dentistry on Brock, located at 49 Brock St E, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 1Z7, Canada, ensures that you receive personalized guidance and expert adjustments over the life of your dentures.
You can always reach them via 📧 info@familydentistryonbrock.com for consultations or follow-up care.
When to Replace Your Dentures
Even with great care, dentures eventually need to be replaced. Look for these signs:
- Dentures feel loose or keep slipping out of place
- You experience pain or mouth sores
- Visible cracks, chips, or stains appear
- You have difficulty chewing or speaking
- Your facial structure appears sunken or altered
If you’re unsure whether your dentures are still serving you well, a professional evaluation at Family Dentistry on Brock can give you clarity and options tailored to your needs.
FAQs About Dentures
1. How do I know when my dentures need to be replaced?
If your dentures feel loose, cause soreness, or no longer help with chewing or speaking effectively, it’s time for a replacement or reline.
2. Can I sleep with my dentures in?
It’s better to remove your dentures at night to let your gums rest and reduce the risk of infection or inflammation.
3. Do dentures stain like natural teeth?
Yes, especially when exposed to coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. Regular cleaning can help minimize staining.
4. Are dentures covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans partially cover dentures. Check with your provider or your dental office to learn more.
5. Is it possible to switch from dentures to implants?
Absolutely. Dental implants are a great long-term solution and can even support a new set of implant-retained dentures.
Conclusion
Dentures can last many years with proper care, but they are not meant to last a lifetime.
Understanding their lifespan, recognizing the signs of wear, and maintaining regular dental visits are key to preserving your comfort and oral health.
For patients in the Tillsonburg area, Family Dentistry on Brock stands as a trusted destination for complete denture care, emergency services, cosmetic treatments, and more.
Their compassionate, skilled team is committed to helping you maintain a confident, healthy smile for years to come.
