Replace old, ill-fitting denture

Question: What happens if I don’t replace my old, ill-fitting denture?

Answer: As we age, our skin bones, joints and muscles begin to change. A person’s mouth, including teeth, gums and supporting jaw bones are constantly in a state of change. So what happens to those who have been wearing the same denture for 10-plus years. How can you tell if your denture needs to be replaced? Let’s discuss what happens when you wear the same denture for too long.

Over time, a denture wears out. The artificial teeth begin to wear down and the supporting jaw bone begins to disappear. As a result, the denture no longer supports your facial structure as it did when you first got it, creating a sunken appearance. For many denture wearers, headaches, neck and joint pain are also major complaints when wearing a worn-out denture.

Because the mouth naturally changes with age, the denture will become loose and create a poor fit. This will cause difficulty while chewing. With the inability to properly masticate, you could potentially develop digestion and/or dietary issues. A poor-fitting denture can also impair your ability to speak properly. Have you ever heard a denture wearer make a clicking sound? That is a result of a denture that no longer has adequate support.

So, how often should you replace your denture? It is advised to have them checked every year to evaluate the fit and review proper care and hygiene.