How long do dentures last? (And when to get them replaced)
Dentures wear out gradually, and your mouth keeps changing shape underneath them - here's what that means for you.
Dentures normally last around five years. Like natural teeth, they wear and can stain over time, and your mouth tissue keeps changing shape long after your denture was made - so a periodic adjustment or reline is expected well before the five-year mark, not a sign anything's gone wrong.
Why dentures don't last forever
Your jawbone and gums continue to reshape gradually for as long as you're missing teeth - a process that never fully stops. As that happens, a denture that fit perfectly on day one gradually loosens. The denture material itself also wears with daily use, and its appearance can change slightly over the years.
Signs your denture needs attention
- It feels looser than it used to, or shifts when you eat or speak
- You're relying more on adhesive than you used to
- Visible wear, staining, or a change in how the teeth look
- Discomfort that wasn't there before
Reline vs replacement
Often, a reline - reshaping the fitting surface of your existing denture to match your current gum line - solves the problem without needing a completely new denture. SA Precision Dentures offers overnight relines: drop off before 10:30am, collect the next morning. A full replacement is usually only needed once the denture itself has significantly worn or your situation has changed substantially.
Getting the most out of your denture
Regular check-ups help catch small fit changes before they become bigger, more disruptive ones. Good daily cleaning and taking your denture out overnight also help it last as long as it should.
FAQS
Common questions
How long do dentures last?+
Dentures normally last around five years. Like natural teeth, they wear and can stain over time, and your mouth tissue keeps changing shape - so a periodic adjustment or reline is expected well before the five-year mark.
What's the difference between a denture reline and a repair?+
A reline reshapes the fitting surface of your denture to match your changed gum line - it's about fit. A repair fixes physical damage like a crack or a broken tooth. Your situation determines which one applies.
How do I know if I need a reline rather than a new denture?+
If your denture has become loose or uncomfortable but the teeth themselves are in good condition, a reline is often all that's needed. Paul can tell you which applies at a quick assessment.
Denture feeling looser than it used to?
Call Paul's clinic in Surrey Downs - a reline or quick adjustment is often all it takes.