When it comes to tooth loss, dentures have long served as a dependable replacement option, restoring the function and aesthetics of natural teeth. These removable appliances, made from various materials, aid in vital activities like eating and speaking. One key aspect to remember about dentures is their lifespan. Understanding the lifespan is crucial in managing expectations and planning replacements to maintain oral health and function.
The typical dentures lifespan is anywhere between 5 to 7 years. However, this range can significantly vary depending on various factors such as the denture’s quality, the maintenance routine, and the patient’s oral condition.
At our clinic, we provide dentures in Calgary and some basic instructions to inform patients about this treatment. We intend to help patients retain their dentures for long since they are not a once-and-done solution. Dentures require regular check-ups, maintenance, and eventual replacement since many factors influence their longevity.
Factors Influencing the Lifespan of Dentures
The dentures lifespan is not a fixed measure. It can vary significantly depending on a host of factors. These factors include the quality of the dentures, the care they receive, the oral health of the wearer, the natural wear and tear they undergo, and the inevitable changes in the mouth’s shape with aging.
Delving into these factors in detail helps you feel confident and comfortable with your dentures since an in-depth understanding of their impact on the lifespan can guide youin its usage.
Material and Quality of Dentures
The choice of material and the quality of dentures play a substantial role in determining their longevity. High-quality dentures, often crafted from durable materials such as acrylic resin, porcelain, or metal, are designed to withstand everyday use, including biting and chewing.
These materials provide a more natural appearance and offer better resilience against wear and tear. On the other hand, dentures made from less robust materials might not hold up under constant use, resulting in a shorter lifespan.
Maintenance and Care
The care and maintenance regimen for dentures significantly impact their lifespan. Proper maintenance includes daily cleaning to remove food particles and plaque, preventing discoloration and bad breath. Additionally, periodic professional cleaning can help eliminate tartar build-up that may be hard to remove with daily cleaning alone.
Dentures must also be stored correctly when not in use—typically in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water—to prevent them from drying out and losing shape. Furthermore, avoiding harsh cleaning materials is crucial, which can irritate the denture surface and lead to premature wear and tear.
Oral Health
The wearer’s oral health is another essential factor that influences the lifespan of dentures. Adhering to regular oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and rinsing, remains crucial even for those wearing dentures.
These practices help prevent conditions like gum disease, which can change the shape of the gums, thereby affecting the fit and function of dentures and shortening their lifespan. Therefore, maintaining good oral health not only preserves your natural teeth but also extends the life of your dentures.
Wear and Tear
Despite the highest levels of care and maintenance, dentures lifespan is subject to regular wear and tear. This results from the constant pressure exerted on them during daily activities like chewing and biting. Over time, this wear and tear can alter the fit of the dentures, causing them to become less comfortable and effective.
Regular dental visits can identify such issues, and periodic adjustments or replacements can be made to maintain optimal function and comfort.
Changes in the Mouth
Over time, natural changes occur in the mouth that can affect the fit of dentures. As we age, there are subtle shifts in the shape of the mouth, changes in the bone structure, and potential gum recession, all of which can make dentures fit poorly. Regular dental check-ups can help in the early detection of these changes, allowing for timely adjustments to the dentures or, in some cases, crafting a new set of dentures to ensure a proper fit.
How to Extend the Dentures Lifespan?
While dentures inevitably have a limited lifespan, their useful life can be significantly extended through appropriate care and maintenance. This includes following a diligent cleaning routine, avoiding damage, ensuring they are stored correctly, maintaining good oral health, and scheduling regular dental check-ups.
Adherence to a regular cleaning schedule is paramount. Dentures should be cleaned daily using a soft or denture-specific brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque. Cleaning not only maintains the aesthetics of dentures but also helps prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.
Regular Cleaning
One way to increase dentures lifespan is to clean them daily using a soft toothbrush, a brush, and a denture cleaner. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of stains, tartar, and bacteria.
Proper Storage
When not in use, dentures should be stored in a denture-cleaning solution or plain water to prevent them from drying out and losing their shape.
Routine Dental Visits
Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection of issues such as poor fit and wear, allowing for necessary adjustments or replacements.
Avoid Damage
Dentures should be handled with care to avoid dropping them. Also, avoid using them to open packages or cut things, which can lead to premature wear and damage.
Maintain Oral Health
Regular gums, tongue, and roof brushing stimulates circulation and helps keep the mouth healthy.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, the lifespan of dentures varies depending on many factors, including their quality, the care they receive, and the wearer’s oral health. Individuals with dentures need to understand these variables to manage expectations and ensure proper care for their dentures.
We recommend regular dental check-ups that are crucial for maintaining dentures and oral health. At The Port Dental Clinic in Calgary, we offer comprehensive denture care services, from initial consultation and fitting to routine check-ups and adjustments.
Our team of skilled dentists is committed to assisting you in extending the lifespan of your dentures, ensuring they remain comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
