It’s a simple fact of life that people lose their teeth, especially as they get older. In fact, according to the American College of Prosthodontics, 30% of those who are between 65 and 74 years old don’t have any natural teeth. The dentures can last a long time, though they may need to be relined at times due to your bone changing without the presence of teeth.

Age and Condition

Dentures can last a long time but they do need to be relined to keep the general shape to match your changing bone. Be sure to keep going to your dentist regularly so that they can inspect the dentures and make any adjustments. Don’t assume that just because you have missing teeth you should avoid dental care.

Gum Shrinkage

Your gums are going to be changing under your dentures. This is especially the case if you had to have teeth pulled before getting the dentures. The gums will heal and change their structure. The dentures might start getting loose and need to be relined to ensure a good fit.

Bone Loss

This is as much a concern as if you’re getting a dental implant. The bone must be able to support the dentures that are on top of them. This can cause the dentures to shift, which will require relining. You may even need to have a bone graft done to strengthen the area.

While there is a bit of a learning curve and some possible initial discomfort, there are several things we can do to make them as comfortable and functional as possible. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist if the discomfort turns to pain and lingers, or the dentures are constantly loose. If you wait, the situation can worsen. By seeing your dental professional early on, they will be able to fix it and give you a great reason to smile.

Do you need someone in your area who is experienced with dentures? We can do that for you. Our services include dentures, dental implants, and teeth cleaning. Contact us today to make an appointment!