Dentures are a great way to restore your upper arch, lower arch, or both arches of teeth. They are the preferred dental restoration for patients who are missing most of their teeth due to age or issues like gum disease and serious dental trauma.
But, unfortunately, dentures don’t last forever. Even the highest quality, most durable dentures will usually need to be replaced after 7-10 years. But how do you know if it’s time to get a new set of dentures?
Dr. Sanath or Dr. Naveen Cherukuri of Harrisburg Smiles want to make sure you know what signs indicate that it’s time for new dentures. Here are a few to keep in mind:
1. Your Dentures Feel Loose, Or Are Falling Out
A great pair of dentures will stay in place while you chew and speak, by friction alone. The tight fit between your denture and gum is typically enough to keep the prosthesis in place during most day-to-day activities.
So, if you find that your dentures are becoming loose, or they’re falling out of your mouth, your dentures definitely need to be adjusted, and may need to be replaced altogether. You can use denture adhesive in the meantime, but this is just a short-term fix.
2. You’re Having Difficulty Speaking Clearly
This is usually related to a loose fit of your dentures. If your dentures are loose, you may notice that you sound “slushy”, and are slurring your words. Your dentures will need to be adjusted or replaced to ensure that you can speak clearly.
3. Your Dentures Are Causing Discomfort Or Harming Your Gum Tissue
If your dentures are in good shape and they fit properly, they will not cause you any pain or discomfort. If you start to notice pain when you chew or bite, your dentures may need to be replaced. In addition, if you notice any kind of sores, lesions, or other changes in the health of your gums, you should see a dentist right away, to refit or replace your dentures.
4. Your Dentures Are Damaged Or Discolored
If you notice that there are chips and cracks in your dentures, or that one or more of the teeth have loosened, they will certainly need to be replaced.
Discoloration of the teeth is also a good reason to replace your dentures. It can be avoided with proper care, but over time, your dentures may still become somewhat yellowed or discolored, particularly if you drink a lot of coffee, wine, or tea while wearing them.
Call Us Today to Learn More About When to Replace Dentures
Not sure if your dentures can be repaired, or if you’ll need to replace them with a brand-new set? Come see Dr. Cherukuri at Harrisburg Smiles today. We specialize in relining, restoring, and replacing dentures. Take a look at our testimonials to learn more about what we do.
At our comprehensive dental center, we’ll examine your mouth and your dentures, and help you understand all of your options for denture repair and replacement. Get started by contacting us at (980) 258-0866. You can also stop by our office at 4310 Physicians Blvd, Harrisburg, NC 28075.
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