Many people continue wearing the same dentures for far longer than they should — often because they still "kind of work," or because the idea of replacement feels inconvenient or expensive. But as your mouth changes over time, even well-made dentures can become ill-fitting, uncomfortable, and potentially harmful.
Knowing when to replace your dentures is important not just for comfort, but also for protecting your oral health, digestion, and overall wellbeing. In this guide, we'll explain how long dentures typically last, why replacement matters, and the key warning signs that indicate it's time for an update — so you can take a proactive approach to your dental health.
How Long Do Dentures Typically Last?
Average Lifespan of Dentures
Most dentures last between 5 and 10 years, depending on the materials used, how well they're maintained, and how much your mouth changes over time. Even if they look fine on the surface, subtle changes underneath can affect fit and function.
What Affects Longevity?
Several factors influence how long dentures last:
- Natural bone and gum shrinkage after tooth loss
- Daily wear and tear from chewing and cleaning
- Clenching or grinding habits
- Changes in weight or facial structure
- Oral hygiene and maintenance routine
All of these can impact how well your dentures continue to fit.
Why Replacing Dentures Matters
Changes in Jaw and Gums Over Time
After teeth are lost, the jawbone slowly shrinks because it no longer receives stimulation from chewing. This causes your gums and facial structure to change shape — meaning dentures that once fit well may gradually become loose.
Oral Health Risks of Old Dentures
Wearing outdated or poorly fitting dentures can lead to:
- Gum inflammation and soreness
- Mouth ulcers and infections
- Difficulty chewing properly
- Speech changes
- Increased risk of bone loss
Old dentures problems often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook until discomfort becomes significant.
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Dentures
Poor Fit or Slipping
If your dentures move when you talk, eat, or laugh — or if you rely heavily on adhesives — it's a strong sign that the fit has changed.
Soreness or Ulcers
Persistent sore spots, redness, or recurring ulcers may mean your dentures are rubbing against areas that no longer match your gum shape.
Changes in Speech or Chewing
Difficulty pronouncing words or chewing efficiently can indicate that your dentures are no longer aligned correctly.
Visible Wear or Damage
Cracks, worn-down teeth, discolouration, or a warped base are all signs your dentures may no longer function or look as they should.
What Happens If You Don't Replace Them?
Bone Loss and Gum Irritation
Ill-fitting dentures accelerate bone loss and place uneven pressure on your gums, leading to long-term tissue damage.
Digestive and Nutritional Issues
If chewing becomes inefficient, people often avoid healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and proteins — increasing the risk of nutritional deficiencies and digestive problems.
People Also Ask — Denture Replacement FAQs
Most people should replace their dentures every 5–10 years, depending on fit, wear, and oral changes.
Relining can improve fit temporarily, but it doesn't fix worn teeth, structural damage, or significant bone changes. In many cases, replacement is the better long-term solution.
You may experience discomfort, sores, infections, bone loss, and difficulty eating or speaking.
They don't have an official expiration date, but they do degrade over time and become less compatible with your changing mouth.
Wondering If It's Time to Replace Your Dentures?
If your dentures feel uncomfortable, loose, or simply outdated, a professional assessment can help you understand whether replacement or adjustment is needed.
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