HOW LONG DO DENTURES LAST?
Most dentures will last 5 – 10 years. Well planned and executed dentures would tend to be towards the upper end of this range.
Some people have been wearing the same set for well beyond that, but generally an examination would reveal some problems that either required correcting, or a new set being made.
Over the years, your gums will change and repairs and maintenance to your denture are likely to be needed to help extend its life. This may be in the form of adding a tooth if you require a dental extraction, repairing a broken base, chipped tooth or a reline to ensure the denture is sitting down properly.
Many factors influence the success of your dentures (as you will find out in this series). How well you look after your dentures and your remaining teeth will certainly play an important part.
DENTURE CARE
Most dentures are made of acrylic/plastic and they need extra care when cleaning.
It is not recommended:
- To use hot-boiling water, only lukewarm water
- To use anything that will scratch, ie wire brushes.
- To use soppy hands while holding them
- To use hard toothbrushes or harsh chemicals
- To try cleaning them while in the shower
DENTURE TIPS
There can be metal parts on a denture as well. You have to be careful not to push or bend, also they can be damaged when dropped.
It is wise to only clean them in a sink, not in the shower, accidents happen in the shower.
Never leave them where pet dogs could get them. Dogs think that they are bones.
Always use a good strong denture fixative before going for a swim or boating.
When going on holidays, always take your spare set with you and some denture fixative.
And if you need a spare set made, your nearest DIRECT DENTURE MAKER™ can help.
Permanent dentures do not last a life time!
You should have your dentures checked yearly especially when your dentures click, whistle, slip and your dentures cause you to have on-going pain, sore spots and chewing problems. Though your new dentures are made to fit firmly in your jaw, generally, people lose 1/3mm of bone height per year. Thus, dentists recommend you to refit your dentures or to make a new set of dentures every 5 to 7 years. Do not try to adjust or repair your dentures on your own as you might cause more damage to it.
Permanent dentures are not meant to be in your mouth 24-7
You need to remove your dentures daily (at least 6 hours) to allow your oral tissues to rest and for saliva to cleanse your oral cavity unlike dental implants. Before soaking your dentures in water (avoid using hot water), clean your dentures with a soft bristled brush to avoid scratching your dentures and use a cleaning paste. Do it over a folded towel or a basin full of water to avoid breakage of dentures if you accidentally drop them. After gently scrubbing all surfaces of your dentures, rinse it thoroughly. Soaking your dentures prevents it from drying out. Remember to change the water daily and to clean the container.