The American Dental Association recommends you replace your dentures every 5-7 years for proper fit and appearance.
Dentures can wear down and stain faster than natural teeth, and tissues and the structure in your mouth can change over time. An improper fit will only make matters worse and can be very painful as well. Dentures will need adjustment from time to time because your mouth is always changing. Proper care of your dentures can extend their life, just like a set of natural teeth!
How To Care for Dentures and Make them Last
There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your dentures and keep them looking fresh and healthy. The first one is when the denture is not being worn, keep it in a container of water or even better, a denture cleaning solution. This will help it retain its shape, keep from drying out and also remain pliable and comfortable in your mouth. Dentures should not ever be placed in hot water or boiling water, as this can permanently damage their shape by causing them to warp and distort.
If your dentures are not fitting well, do not ever use adhesives as a substitute for an improper or worn-out fit. This can cause more severe problems like oral sores. In this case it is best to have the dentures properly and professionally either re-aligned or replaced altogether.
Problems that can affect dentures
Dentures can develop plaque and bacteria just like real teeth, and this is why it is important to clean them daily to keep them from being permanently stained. Any loose food particles or denture adhesive should be rinsed away daily.
Dental cleanser formula comes in tablets, solutions, or pastes. Soaking your dentures daily will also help remove any denture-related odors. Dentures can also be cleaned with warm water and toothpaste, or a very mild soap.
Both cleaning products and adhesives will sometimes beat the ADA seal. This seal is your assurance that the product has been objectively evaluated for safety and efficacy by an independent body of scientific experts, the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs. Remember to use mild toothpaste and a soft bristled brush.
It is also important to continue to brush your gums, palate, and tongue every morning before putting your dentures in. This will help prevent build-up of germs and other particles in between your gums that can reduce the overall life of the dentures and make them not last nearly as long.
Keeping your dentures clean and taking care of them will keep your smile beautiful and keep you feeling confident for years to come. Remember too that dentures are made from artificial materials and even though you may be taking great care of them, the shape of your mouth will continue to change over time and it is important to visit your dentist regularly to ensure proper fit. By following these steps, you can help make your dentures last and your mouth healthy and happy.
Resources
https://www.mayodentalclinic.com/services/restorative/dentures/
https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/dentures
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