How Do I Know If My Dentures Need Replacing? A Dentist’s View

How Do I Know If My Dentures Need Replacing? A Dentist’s View

When you’ve got dentures, the aim is always that they give you the best possible experience and comfort. The thing is, while dentures don’t generally change, your mouth does, meaning you might get to the point where they need to be replaced. But how can you tell?

Nearly half of adults in the UK over 75 wear dentures, along with 13% of people under that age. As such, it’s far from being a niche dental issue, and it’s one we thought required a clear and easy-to-follow explanation.

So, in this blog, we look at how well dentures in Manchester stand up to general wear and tear and the signs to look out for that it’s time you got a new set.

What Are the Signs Your Dentures Need Replacing?

First things first, you’re not going to wake up one morning and suddenly wonder, “Do my dentures need replacing?” It’s not like when you need a filling or a crown, where you’ve got a lot of pain and discomfort. It’s usually the small changes that you’re going to notice first.

You could be talking about a sore patch that keeps coming back in one place, or you feel your dentures shift more than they should when you talk or eat. The easiest way to decide is usually to think, “Are they still doing their job properly?”

Take a look below and see if any signs sound familiar.

It’s important to say that if you’re getting any of these symptoms, it doesn’t automatically mean you need a new set of dentures. They could just need adjusting, or it could be time to consider options like implant-retained dentures that don’t slip in the same way.

How Long Should Dentures Last?

When you get fitted with dentures at a dentist in Manchester, you should get 10+ years of use, but that’s not guaranteed. Why? Because it’s different for everyone. Some get decades with the same pair and have no troubles, whereas others find that regular adjustments are needed.

Also, as you age, your gums and jaw gradually change shape, but so slowly that you don’t notice. Of course, wear and tear happens, and what fitted perfectly a decade ago might not be suitable now.

A few things can alter how long yours last:

• How often you wear them
• How well they’re cleaned and stored between uses
• Whether they’ve been dropped or damaged at any point
• Whether they’ve needed repairs before
• How much your gums and jaw have changed since they were first fitted
• How often you get a dental check-up

Age alone isn’t a reason to replace dentures. If your dentures still fit comfortably, look natural, and let you eat and speak without problems, they may just need a routine check rather than anything more involved.

Just be sure to keep up with your regular check-ups, because it’s so important for your teeth and gums – as our article explores.

Can Dentures Be Fixed Instead of Replaced?

One of the first questions people ask when their dentures stop feeling right is whether they need a brand-new set. The good news is that not every problem means starting over. In some cases, a relatively small adjustment or repair can make a meaningful difference.

A lot depends on what’s actually causing the problem. Let’s take a look at what that looks like in practice.

Adjustment Might Be Enough

If your dentures are rubbing in one spot, a simple adjustment made by your dentist could be sufficient to stop the discomfort. In this case, the adjustment would likely give you extra years out of your dentures.

Relining May Be an Option

As we mentioned earlier, the shape of your gums can change even if the dentures themselves are still in good condition. A touch of relining work can reshape the inside surface so it sits more securely against your mouth.

Replacement Could Be the Best Choice

There comes a point where repeated adjustments become a bit like repairing an old car. If the fit, appearance, and function have all deteriorated, a new set is often the simpler long-term solution. The only real way to know which category you fall into is to let your dentist take a look.

In the meantime, why not read our article on maintaining good gum health, so you know that side of things is covered?

Need Help With Loose or Uncomfortable Dentures In Manchester?

If your dentures have started giving you problems, the wisest move is to go to your dentist and let them have a look. They might need replacing, sure, but they might also only need a small adjustment or repair – you won’t know until you go.

At Ringway Dental, we can take a proper look at how your dentures fit and talk you through what can be done. We’ll be with you every step of the way, so you can concentrate on getting the bite and look you want.

Get in touch today to talk to our team or book yourself a free online consultation, and we’ll help you enjoy the good oral health you deserve.

FAQs

Q – Why do my dentures suddenly feel loose?

A – A number of things can be behind it, such as your jaw or gums changing shape. Talk to your dentist for more information.

Q – Should dentures hurt at first?

A – New dentures can feel a bit odd to start with, but it shouldn’t take long to get used to them. If you’re getting pain because of rubbing, your dentist might need to adjust things for you.

Q – Can I keep wearing damaged dentures?

A – It’s not a good idea. A small crack, chip, or rough edge can end up hurting your gums more. The sooner you get it looked at, the better.

Q – Would replacement dentures look different to my old ones?

A – They might look a little different, but your dentist will do everything they can to get the shade just right for you.

Q – How do I know whether I need a repair, reline, or replacement?

A – That depends on the condition of the denture and how well it fits your mouth now. A dentist can check both and explain which option is likely to give you the best result.

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