Dentures are a great way to maintain the function and appearance of your regular teeth. However, they do require maintenance and need to be replaced every five to seven years, according to the Oral Health Foundation. Here are some of the most common signs it's time to replace your dentures.

Time

When was the last time you had your oral appliance replaced? As mentioned above, dentures can last up to seven years with the right care. If you're approaching the five or seven-year mark, it may be time to begin considering a new set. Your dentist can evaluate the state of your oral appliance to see how worn down it's become and determine when the right time may be to replace it.

Discomfort

It's natural for your mouth to have a bit of an adjustment period when you first begin wearing a new set of dentures. However, you shouldn't experience pain or discomfort when you have them in. If you're in pain or experiencing bleeding or damage, it may be time to replace your oral appliance.

Poor Eating and Speaking

The point of wearing an oral appliance is to give you temporary teeth that can help you eat normally without negatively impacting your speech. If chewing has become more difficult, it's hard for you to properly form words, or your dentures slip when eating or speaking, your oral appliance may not be properly adjusted to your mouth like it used to be. Reach out to your dentist for an evaluation to see if you may need a replacement.

Discoloration and Damage

While your dentures aren't natural teeth, they can experience similar wear and tear over time. After all, you use them to eat. However, when you notice an excessive amount of damage and discoloration (especially in regards to chips, cracks, or missing denture teeth), your appliance has outlasted its use.

If you have a few missing teeth or need a full-mouth replacement, dentures can come in handy. Of course, no one set of oral appliances will last forever. Use these signs to check the state of your dentures, and don't hesitate to visit our office today at Lacey Denture Clinic to be fitted for a new pair. For more information about oral appliances or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!