How Often Should You See a Dentist if You Have Dentures?

How Often Should You See a Dentist if You Have Dentures?

Posted by Dr. Thomas Flavin Sep 17,2022

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If you have missing teeth, then you probably already know how important it is to replace them. If you don’t, then you will soon find out why. Dentures are false teeth that are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They are used to fill in the gaps where teeth are missing, and they help restore the appearance of your smile.

When Was the Last Time You Saw a Dentist?

If it has been over a year since your last visit to the dentist, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The dentist will check your dentures and your mouth to check for any potential problems or complications. They will make sure that your dentures fit properly, that they don’t cause your cheeks to sag down too much, and that your gums are healthy. If your dentures aren’t fitting well anymore, your dentist can make some adjustments for you. This can help you chew your food more effectively, and it can also help protect your jawbone from losing too much bone mass.

The dentist will also check your teeth to make sure that they stay healthy and strong. They may recommend using prescription-strength toothpaste if you have sensitive teeth or gums that your dentures are rubbing against. Your dentist will check the soft tissue in your mouth as well. This includes your lips, cheeks, tongue, tonsils, and soft palate. If there are any signs that something isn’t right, they will be able to let you know so that you can get it taken care of before it becomes a bigger problem.

If you have dental insurance, you may be able to get partial coverage for exams and cleanings. If you want to improve your health, you should also consider seeing your doctor for annual physicals, even if you don’t have insurance. You may be able to get a free annual checkup through a local clinic, or you can check with your local hospital to see if they offer one. 

How Long are Dentures Supposed to Last?

With proper care and good oral hygiene habits, you can expect your dentures to last for a decade or more. However, this estimate is an average; your denture longevity depends on a number of different factors, such as the overall health of your mouth and the materials used to create them. If you have well-fitted dentures that fit well and don’t cause any type of irritation, it’s possible they could last longer. On the other hand, if you suffer from bruxism or you grind your teeth at night, those factors could shorten the life of your dentures significantly. You may also want to replace them sooner if they become damaged in any way or they break while in use. It’s a good idea to have at least two spare sets of dentures on hand just in case something happens to the primary set. That way, you’ll be able to wear them while your replacement is being created by the lab.

To learn more, contact Healthy Smiles of Saint Louis at 4224 Watson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63109, or call (314) 832-1366. 

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