Knowing when to get your dentures replaced can be difficult since wear and tear is very different for everyone. If you are a brand-new dentures wearer, your dentures may not need replacement because of wear and tear, but because of poor fit. Whether you are a new denture wearer or a seasoned one, read on to learn more about the factors involved in denture replacement and repair.

For Newer Denture Wearers

Getting used to dentures is like getting used to other oral appliances—like braces. You may be a little sore at first and constantly aware of the appliance. However, after about a month of wear, you should be much more comfortable with the dentures. If you're not getting used to the dentures, you need to ask your dentist for an adjustment. Dentures should fit snugly around your gum line. A very common problem is that poor-fitting dentures are too loose and rub the gums raw.  

Ill-fitting dentures not only cause pain: they are more likely to break and cost you more money for a replacement. Schedule a check-up after a month if you aren't liking your dentures. Your dentist can send your old dentures into a dental laboratory with the necessary changes.

Keep in mind that your jawbone will continue to shrink ever so slightly because missing teeth affect bone density. So it's important to assess your dentures' fit at your annual or bi-annual dental cleanings.

For Seasoned Denture Wearers

Dentures usually last three to seven years before they need to be replaced. Keep this timeline in mind if you've had your dentures for a couple of years.

While dentures are made of strong materials, such as metal, acrylic, and porcelain, nothing trumps the strength of your natural teeth. Your dentures can become cracked and stained due to everyday functions like talking and eating. At the end of each day, when you take your dentures out, assess them for microcracks. It's also vital to clean them thoroughly every day since that will extend their life.

A cracked denture is actually very easy for the dentist to bond back together. If a crack breaks a denture in half, it's more expensive and a much more challenging repair. A denture that has cracked all the way through may never have the same durability, even when fixed.

Although some pharmacies and grocery stores sell over-the-counter repair kits for dentures, it's best to avoid these. You may do more damage with the adhesives that come in these kits. Instead, contact an emergency dentist in your area. He or she may be able to have the dentures fixed in a very timely manner.