Denture replacement is the process of replacing dentures. On average, dentures should last 5 to 7 years when properly cared for and maintained.
There are three indications that it’s time for denture replacement:
- Cracks/damage to the dentures
- Natural wear/tear
- Changes to the shape of your mouth
Any time your dentures become loose or uncomfortable or cause damage to your gums, you should consider a reline or replacement.
In this article, we’ll explain the common causes for worn-out dentures, when you should consider replacing dentures, and how much denture replacement costs.
Many people choose “economy” dentures to save money. The issue with that is, they’re not made with durable materials. In most cases, the teeth are made of the same material as the base, which is polymethylmethacrylate. While durable for the base, it’s not good for teeth because it can get worn down quickly, especially when chewing foods that are crunchy/hard. PMMA is also more likely to pick up odors or become discolored.
When dentures fit properly, the bite force is evenly distributed, which prevents them from wearing out too quickly. However, when improperly fitted, some areas experience bite force more than others, which can increase the wear and tear in those areas.
Additionally, if dentures are slipping and sliding around in the mouth, and possibly fall out, it increases the risk of breakage. One of the most common issues related to fit is known as fulcruming, which is where the denture rocks back and forth on uneven bone, causing breakage.
In some cases, poor fit is due to the dentist not ensuring proper fit, in other cases, it happens as the mouth changes. Relines can help, but if the fit isn’t improved it won’t help with the lifespan of the denture.
If the damage to your natural teeth was caused by a bad bite, it may also cause damage and uneven wear/tear on your dentures. A bad bite isn’t automatically improved by removing natural teeth and replacing them with dentures. In some cases, a bad bite can develop due to poorly fitting dentures. Therefore, make sure that you are working with a dentist that understands neuromuscular dentistry and can identify and correct a bad bite.
There are several reasons that you should consider replacing your dentures, including:
Loose/falling out
Dentures should fit snugly when chewing and speaking. If they are loose or falling out, you need to have them adjusted or replaced.
Difficulty eating/talking
If you’re having difficulty eating/talking when wearing your dentures, you need to have them checked. They should be adjusted or replaced.
Uncomfortable/painful
While it will take some time to get used to wearing dentures, you should not experience pain or irritation. If you do, contact the dentist for an adjustment or replacement.
Discolored/damaged
You should expect some natural wear and tear on your dentures. However, if you have excessive discoloration or your dentures are damaged, it’s a sign that they need to be replaced.
It's been awhile
Since everyone is different, there is no specific timeline for denture replacement. The best thing to do is schedule an evaluation every 2 to 4 years to check for wear/tear and expect a replacement every 5 to 7 years.
The average cost of a denture reline or adjustment ranges from around $100 to $500. If you need a full replacement, it will cost you about the same as the original prosthetic.
- For economic dentures, you can expect to pay around $300 to $500 per arch or $600 to $1,000 for a full set.
- For mid-grade dentures, you can expect to pay around $500 to $1,500 per arch or $1,000 to $3,000 for a full set.
- For premium dentures, you can expect to pay around $2,000 to $4,000 per arch, or $4,000 to $8,000 for a full set.
Removable dentures are not designed to last a lifetime. Over time, they experience wear and tear and will eventually need to be replaced. If any of the above apply to you, schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out if replacement is the right option.
