You rely on your dentures every day to eat, speak, and smile. Over time, however, they may start to feel different than they once did. What used to fit comfortably can begin to rub, shift, or simply feel “off,” making everyday activities more frustrating than they should be.
Dentures are not designed to last forever, and both your mouth and the materials themselves change over time. At MR Dental Aesthetics in Los Angeles, Dr. Rashti, our highly experienced cosmetic dentist and periodontist, guides patients toward comfortable, long-lasting teeth replacement options. Below are some of the most common signs it may be time to replace old dentures.
Persistent discomfort or sore spots
Your dentures should feel natural once you’ve adjusted to them. If you’re constantly aware of pressure, rubbing, or pain, something is likely wrong. Ongoing discomfort can show up as tender areas on the gums, redness, or recurring sore spots that never seem to heal.
These issues often develop because your jawbone and gum tissues gradually change shape over time. When the foundation beneath your dentures shifts, the fit becomes uneven, creating pressure points. Ignoring this discomfort can lead to irritation, infections, and a reluctance to wear your dentures at all. Replacing ill-fitting dentures can protect the health of your gums.
Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
Dentures are meant to restore normal function, allowing you to eat a wide range of foods and speak without hesitation. If chewing has become awkward or tiring, or if certain foods constantly slip underneath your dentures, it may indicate poor fit or worn-down teeth.
You might also notice subtle changes in your speech, such as slurring or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. These can feel embarrassing and may cause you to avoid conversations or social situations. New dentures designed with proper alignment and bite balance can dramatically improve your ability to eat comfortably and speak with confidence.
Dentures that feel loose or unstable
Well-fitting dentures rely on contact with the gums to stay securely in place. If your dentures shift when you laugh, cough, or smile, or if you depend heavily on adhesive just to get through the day, it’s a strong sign they are no longer fitting properly.
As the jawbone slowly shrinks after tooth loss, dentures lose their foundation. This constant movement can strain your jaw muscles, leading to soreness, tension, or headaches. Replacing loose dentures helps restore stability and reduces the need for constant adhesive.
Visible cracks, chips, or excessive wear
Take a close look at your dentures from time to time. Even small cracks, chips, or worn-down teeth can compromise their strength and performance. Minor damage can quickly worsen, potentially leading to sudden breakage during eating or cleaning.
Worn teeth also affect how well you chew and can throw off your bite, contributing to jaw discomfort. In addition, stained or damaged dentures may detract from the appearance of your smile. A new set of dentures can restore both function and aesthetics.
Changes in facial appearance
Your teeth and dentures play an important role in supporting the structure of your face. When dentures no longer fit correctly, they may fail to provide adequate support to the cheeks and lips.
You might notice a sunken look around the mouth, thinning lips, deeper wrinkles, or a sagging jawline. These changes can make you appear older or more tired than you feel. Properly fitted replacement dentures can help restore facial support, improving overall balance and giving your face a more youthful contour.
Frequent gum irritation or infections
Poorly fitting or worn dentures can trap food and bacteria against the gums, increasing the risk of inflammation and infection. If you experience recurring gum soreness, swelling, or sores, your dentures may be contributing to the problem.
Chronic irritation can make wearing dentures uncomfortable and may compromise your oral health over time. Replacing old dentures with a well-fitting set helps create a healthier environment for your gums and reduces the likelihood of ongoing issues.
Your dentures are more than five to seven years old
Even if your dentures seem acceptable, age alone can be a reason to consider replacement. Most dentures are designed to last about five to seven years. Over that time, the materials gradually weaken, and the shape of your mouth continues to change.
An older denture may look fine on the surface but still fit poorly or lack proper support. Regular dental evaluations can reveal subtle problems before they become major concerns. Proactively replacing aging dentures can help you avoid discomfort.
Recognizing these signs early can spare you unnecessary discomfort and frustration. At MR Dental Aesthetics, Dr. Rashti takes a personalized approach to evaluating your dentures and oral health. If you suspect your dentures may be due for replacement, schedule a consultation to explore your teeth replacement options to improve comfort, function, and appearance.
