How Long Do Dentures Last? What to Expect and When to Replace Them

How long do dentures last?

Sources give different answers, from around three years before maintenance or remaking is needed to five to ten years with good care. The honest answer is that it depends on your mouth, the type of denture, and how often it is checked.

These ranges aren't necessarily in conflict, because “still working” and “needs maintenance or remaking” are different measures.

Why do dentures stop fitting over time?

As we get older our gums and jawbone shrink, which is called bone resorption, and that can make a denture loose even though the denture itself hasn't changed. Wear on the teeth and base adds to it, according to the Polident guide.

We cover the process in more detail in our post on jawbone resorption and denture fit.

What are the signs you need new dentures?

Clicking when you talk, less comfort than before, irritated gums and visible wear are all signs to get your denture checked, according to Polident. If a denture is loose or sore, don't wait for your yearly check.

The sooner a problem is looked at, the more options there are. We can often repair or adjust a denture on its own; see denture repairs.

Can a reline fix it, or do you need a replacement?

A reline or rebase can restore fit when the denture itself is still in good condition, while a replacement is needed when it is worn or the teeth and bite have changed. Which one you need is decided at an examination, as Polident also notes: the solution may be relining, rebasing or replacing.

At an examination we check how the denture fits, how worn the teeth and base are, and how your gums have changed, then tell you whether a reline will do or whether a new denture is the better answer. If a reline is enough, we will say so.

Our denture relines page explains the soft and hard options.

What's involved in getting replacement dentures?

Replacement dentures follow the same steps as a first set: an examination, impressions or a scan, a try-in, and a fitting. If your first set was a digital denture, we keep your design file, so a replacement can be made without new impressions.

Prices for full sets are on our pricing page, and our standard dentures page has the details.

Is it worth having a spare set?

A spare set gives you something to wear if your denture breaks or is in the laboratory for repair. For digital dentures, the stored design file means a second denture can be made without starting from new impressions.

It's a decision to make with your prosthetist, because a spare made from an old design may not fit once your gums have changed.

How can you make dentures last longer?

Have your dentures checked at least once a year, which is what healthdirect advises, and get a loose or cracked denture looked at early rather than waiting. That check is also when we can tell you whether a reline would help.

Next step. If your denture is loose, sore or just feels different, your first consultation is free. Book your free consultation or call (03) 9041 6443.