Ask Dr Toof

When Is It Time To Get New Dentures?

LAST UPDATED:

October 9, 2025

Category:

Q:

Hi Dr. Toof, I hope you’re doing well! I’m a 45-year-old father, and I’ve been noticing that my dentures feel a bit loose and uncomfortable lately. I’m starting to wonder when it’s time to get new dentures, as I want to make sure I’m taking good care of my oral health. I remember when my parents had theirs replaced and how much of a difference it made for them. My kids are 12 and 15, and I want to set a good example for them about maintaining dental health. Could you please share some signs or reasons that indicate it might be time to get new dentures? Thank you!

- Our follower on social media

Hey there! Thanks for reaching out. Loose and uncomfortable dentures are definitely something you shouldn’t ignore. If your dentures are feeling loose, causing discomfort, or even irritating your gums, these are clear signs that they might not fit properly anymore. Sometimes you might notice visible wear and tear, have trouble chewing your food, or even experience changes in your speech, which can all point to your dentures needing some attention.

Now, why do dentures get loose over time? There are a few reasons behind this. As we age, our gums and bone structure can change. Things like weight loss or tooth extraction can also cause shifts, making your dentures not fit as well as they used to. When your dentures don’t fit right, it can be very uncomfortable and might even affect your nutrition because you can’t chew properly.

So, what can you do before you manage to see your dentist? In the meantime, you could try using some denture adhesive to help keep them in place. Make sure you clean them properly, too, as this can sometimes help with the fit. It might be a good idea to stick to softer foods that don’t need as much chewing until you get your dentures checked and adjusted.

When you get to the dentist, they’ll take a good look at your current situation. They’ll probably check your dentures and your gums to see what’s happening. They might suggest a simple adjustment or relining your dentures for a better fit, and if needed, they could advise creating a new set. This will help ensure you have a comfy and functional smile, which makes a world of difference.

Don’t wait too long to make that appointment! Ensuring you have well-fitted dentures is super important not just for your comfort, but for your overall health, too. Poorly fitting dentures can lead to sores, infections and could even affect your nutrition. It’s fantastic that you’re thinking about setting a good example for your kids. Teaching them the importance of dental health by looking after your own is something really special.

About The Author

MDC 11249

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Jordan University of Science and Technology, 2018

Dr. Athirah is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist with a special focus on dental surgery and endodontics. She co-founded Dr Toof Dental Clinic to stay at the forefront of modern dentistry.

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