4 Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Dentures

Your dentures have done a lot for you over the years; they’ve given your mouth a renewed chance when it comes to eating, talking, laughing and more. However, they’re not built to last forever—even if you take good care of your dentures, they’ll eventually need to be swapped out with new ones, precisely readjusted, or attached to dental implants to continue functioning properly. But how do you know when it’s time for brand new dentures? Keep reading to learn about four signs that indicate it’s time to have your dentures replaced.

1. Your Dentures Feel Loose or Are Falling Out

Well-made dentures can remain in place on your gums through friction alone; the tight fit between your dentures and gums is typically enough to keep the prosthetics in place throughout the day. Sometimes an adhesive material can also be used to help stabilize your dentures. The snugger they fit on your gums, the better.

However, they can sometimes become loose and prone to falling out. The constant daily motion they go through can be enough to dislodge them. If your dentures are no longer able to remain fixed in place on your gums, see your dentist for adjustments or replacement dentures.

2. You’re Having Difficulty Talking Clearly

This is often a direct result of loose-fitting dentures. If your dentures are slipping and sliding all over the inside of your mouth, you’ll have quite a bit of difficulty when trying to talk clearly! You can slur your speech without meaning to, mispronounce certain words and phrases, and accidentally  spray saliva while talking. Your dentures will need to be replaced or refitted in order to restore your speech.

3. Your Dentures Are Damaged or Discolored

If you notice any obvious chips or cracks in your dentures or if one or more of the teeth have become loose, they will need to be replaced. Your dentures cannot function properly if they are damaged! You can also replace your dentures if they are noticeably stained and discolored, although this can be avoided with proper oral hygiene and by evading certain foods and beverages.

4. Your Dentures Are Causing You Pain or Discomfort

Properly fitting dentures should not cause you any pain or discomfort whatsoever. If you’re experiencing pain when you chew or bite, it might be a sign that your dentures do not fit your mouth correctly.  If you notice any sores, lesions, or other changes to your gums, see your dentist immediately to refit or replace your dentures.

Even though your dentures aren’t meant to last forever, you can reap their benefits indefinitely by taking good care of them and having them replaced or refitted as needed.

About the Author

Dr. Dominic G. Carlson is honored to serve patients and families in his hometown of Bakersfield! His practice offers a wide range of available services including family, restorative, cosmetic, emergency dentistry and more—they also offer dentures! Dr. Carlson received his DDS from Creighton University and has undergone several hours of specialized training in various fields. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule an appointment, you can contact Dr. Carlson online or by phone: (661) 327-7301.