Do I Need New Dentures?

As a rule, you will need to replace your dentures every five years. But, with care, your dentures can retain their original qualities for much longer.

There are some instances where new dentures may not be required but can be rejuvenated:

• Loose fitting dentures can be tightened with relines.
  
  
• Over-closed or misaligned dentures can also be corrected with relines.
  
  
• A severely discolored or permanently stained denture can be erased with a rebase (where all the pink acrylic is replaced).
  
  
• Even a denture fracture (in half or in pieces) or missing teeth can be repaired without resorting to new dentures.

Because dentures are an artificial appliance, and by nature of their use, they will eventually wear out. Often, the changes are so gradual you won’t notice, even when your dentures are severely worn. But just try wearing your old dentures about one month after you have gotten new, well-constructed dentures – you will wonder how you ever managed with the old ones!

Some of the denture acrylics, especially in older dentures, can be porous allowing fine food residue, saliva and bacteria to lodge there. This internal residue can be only removed with a rebase or new dentures. Even the best denture cleaner will not do it.

One thing is for certain: if the teeth on your dentures are worn, then yes, you need new dentures. It’s important to replace them because the new, sharper teeth will allow you to eat and digest your food more efficiently.