How Often Should You Replace Your Dentures?
 Dentures are designed to restore your smile and chewing function, but they aren’t meant to last forever. At Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry, our prosthodontic team helps patients understand when it’s time to consider replacing their dentures. Whether you wear full or partial dentures, knowing the signs of wear and changes in your oral health is key to maintaining long-term comfort and function.
Average Lifespan of Dentures
On average, dentures need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years. This timeline varies depending on:
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Material Quality - Higher-quality acrylics may last longer with proper care.
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Daily Maintenance - Regular cleaning and professional evaluations can extend their life.
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Oral Changes - Bone loss or gum shrinkage can alter fit and require replacement.
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Wear and Tear - Chewing forces, grinding, and daily use gradually wear down denture surfaces. |
Even if your dentures seem functional, long-term use may compromise fit and affect your overall oral health.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Dentures
Knowing when to replace your dentures helps avoid unnecessary discomfort or complications. Look for the following signs:
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Persistent Soreness or Irritation - Indicates poor fit or changes in your oral tissues.
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Loose or Slipping Dentures - A common result of jawbone changes over time.
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Difficulty Chewing or Speaking - Declining performance is a signal they’re no longer functioning well.
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Cracks or Fractures - Damaged acrylic or broken teeth should not be ignored.
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Staining and Odor - Deep-set stains or persistent odor can be signs of aging materials.
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Visible Wear - Flattened chewing surfaces or dull appearance indicate excessive wear. |
If you experience any of these issues, a prosthodontic evaluation can determine whether relining, repair, or full replacement is appropriate.
Risks of Keeping Worn or Ill-Fitting Dentures
Continuing to wear dentures that are past their lifespan can impact more than just comfort. Potential risks include:
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Jawbone Loss - Poor fit accelerates bone resorption over time.
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Soft Tissue Damage - Ill-fitting dentures can cause chronic sores or infections.
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Digestive Issues - Inadequate chewing can affect digestion and nutrition.
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Premature Facial Aging - Loose dentures can lead to sunken cheeks or changes in facial profile. |
Timely replacement supports both functional health and facial aesthetics.
What to Expect When Getting New Dentures
Replacing dentures is a multi-step process designed to ensure optimal fit, function, and appearance:
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Comprehensive exam to assess oral health, current denture condition, and bone structure.
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Impressions and bite registration to guide the creation of new custom dentures.
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Trial fittings to check fit, comfort, and aesthetics before finalizing the design.
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Delivery and adjustment of the final denture to ensure a perfect fit. |
At Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry, we use advanced materials and precision techniques to ensure your new dentures offer a natural appearance and stable fit.
Schedule a Denture Evaluation in Niagara, WI
If it’s been several years since your dentures were made—or if they’re showing signs of wear—our team at Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry is here to help. We provide thorough assessments and expert denture replacement services to keep your smile functioning at its best.
Call (906) 212-4725 today to book your denture evaluation with our Niagara prosthodontic team.
FAQs
Can I wear my dentures longer than 10 years?
While some patients do wear dentures longer than 10 years, it's not ideal. Over time, your mouth changes, and older dentures may no longer fit properly or function well. Regular dental evaluations help determine if replacement is necessary.
Are there alternatives to replacing my dentures?
In some cases, relining or adjusting your existing dentures may provide temporary relief. However, if the structure or fit is compromised, full replacement is often the best long-term solution.
How will I know when it’s time for new dentures?
Common signs include sore spots, looseness, trouble chewing, or visible wear. If it’s been more than 5 years since your last set, it’s wise to schedule a professional evaluation.
Will my new dentures look different from my old ones?
Yes—in a good way. New dentures are customized to your current facial structure and preferences. Many patients find that updated dentures look more natural and feel more comfortable than older ones. |
