How Often Do Dentures Need a Realignment?

Dentures are prosthetic devices worn in the mouth to replace missing teeth. They can be a full set -- replacing all teeth -- or a partial set -- replacing only a few missing teeth. Regardless of which type of set you have, dentures may need to be realigned or replaced more than once in your lifetime.

Causes

• Adjustments to your dentures may be needed for a variety of reasons. Your mouth changes over time, from causes such as age or significant weight gain or loss. When your bone or gum tissue recedes or shrinks, it can make the dentures you are wearing feel looser, and you may encounter difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking.

Frequency

• In addition to changes in your mouth, alterations of the dentures themselves can necessitate a realignment. If the device chips, cracks, breaks, or you lose additional teeth since your last fitting, it is probably time to contact your dentist to have your dentures adjusted or replaced. Although there is no specific timeline in which the prosthetic needs realignment, discuss the matter with a dental professional anytime your dentures no longer work well for you.

Importance

• It is very important to have your dentures realigned or replaced as soon as you realize it is necessary. Delaying or declining to do so can cause minor problems in the mouth, such as the dentures becoming uncomfortable. You can also put yourself at risk for more serious oral injuries, such as sores, infections, and difficulty eating or drinking.