Dentures are removable devices designed to replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissues. These devices restore the ability to chew, speak clearly, and support the structure of the face. While dentures are fabricated to be durable, they are not permanent fixtures and will require maintenance and eventual replacement over time. The functional life of any denture varies significantly based on factors unique to the wearer and the appliance itself.
The Average Lifespan of Dentures
The generally accepted lifespan for a conventional full or partial denture falls within a range of five to ten years, representing the period during which the device remains functionally sound and fits the changing contours of the mouth. This average is not a guarantee, and various circumstances can shorten or extend this period. While the denture material may resist physical breakdown for a decade, changes in the oral anatomy often necessitate adjustments or replacement much earlier. Immediate dentures, placed after tooth extraction, are temporary and often require replacement within the first year as tissues heal and shrink. Conversely, implant-supported dentures often demonstrate a longer average lifespan, sometimes extending to 15 years or more due to their superior stability.
Key Factors That Influence Longevity
The durability of a denture is heavily influenced by the quality of the materials used in its construction, such as high-grade acrylic or composite teeth and resilient acrylic resin bases. A primary biological factor affecting longevity is alveolar ridge resorption, the gradual shrinking of the jawbone after tooth loss. Since dentures rest on the gum tissue covering this bone, the changing shape of the jaw leads to a progressively looser fit. This bone loss occurs faster in the lower jaw (mandible), meaning the fit of the lower denture often degrades more quickly. The amount of force applied through daily use also plays a role in wear rate; bruxism (teeth grinding) or consistently chewing tough foods subjects the dentures to excessive forces that accelerate the abrasion and flattening of the chewing surfaces.
Signs It Is Time for Adjustment or Replacement
A noticeable change in fit, often manifesting as looseness or slipping during eating or speaking, is one of the clearest indications that a denture needs attention. Poorly fitting dentures often require increased use of adhesive and can cause a clicking sound when talking. Ill-fitting devices also commonly lead to chronic irritation of the oral soft tissues, resulting in persistent sore spots, redness, or inflammation that can progress to infections. Visible signs of deterioration are also clear indicators for replacement, including cracks in the acrylic base, chipped artificial teeth, or heavy, permanent staining. When the biting surfaces appear visibly flattened or worn down, the efficiency of chewing is reduced, and the vertical dimension of the bite may be compromised.
Maintenance Procedures to Extend Lifespan
Regular professional maintenance is necessary to maximize the functional life of a denture, primarily due to continuous changes in the underlying bone and gum tissue. Relining is a procedure that adds new material to the tissue-fitting surface to restore a snug fit; a soft reline may last one to two years, while a hard reline can last up to four years. It is generally recommended that a denture reline be performed every one to three years to maintain optimal fit and comfort. Rebasing is a more extensive procedure where the entire acrylic base is replaced while preserving the existing teeth, often recommended every five to seven years for damaged appliances. Daily care is paramount and involves removing and brushing the dentures daily with a non-abrasive cleanser, and soaking them overnight to control bacteria and prevent staining.