How Long Does A Partial Denture Last?

A partial denture functions well to replace missing teeth and returns apt functionality of chewing and biting. Not just that, they also focus on the aesthetic part of the entire fiasco. This plastic and metal base with false teeth matches the roof of your mouth and prevents your facial skin from drooping, giving it a proper structure. But is it a permanent fix? Let’s take a look at how long a partial denture can last. 

Life of Partial Dentures 

Partial dentures can work to replace 3 consecutively fallen-out teeth and help you regain the ability to chew while stabilizing the remaining real teeth. A partial denture can last up to 5 to 7 years with proper oral care. However, their life may stretch to 10 years with good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings. 

Ways You Can Make Partial Dentures Last Long

Maintenance starts at home. Once dentists place your partial dentures, the responsibility of keeping them in a good state automatically falls on your shoulders. Here are some useful tips that can make your partial denture last for a long time. 

1. At-Home Oral Hygiene

Partial dentures need care and attention, exactly like your natural teeth. Therefore, do not forget to:

• Brush teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride-infused toothpaste after every meal or at least twice a day.
• Floss at least once every day.
• Antibacterial mouthwashes to eliminate oral bacteria.

As time passes, partial dentures can resorb bone, creating a space between the bridge and the gumline that traps food particles. If one does not clean underneath their bridge, bacterial infection and consequent infection are a given. Accumulation of bacteria leads to: 

• Bad breath
• Plaque
• Gum disease

2. Dietary Modification 

You need to give your mouth enough time to adjust to the new norm. In the meantime, try switching to softer foods for a while that won’t put pressure on your dentures or teeth. Other than that, even chewing on both sides of the mouth is a must practice to balance the impact of eating. Here’s a list of the items you should steer clear of: 

• Foods that are sticky and can easily get stuck between and under your partial denture. They can be tough enough to pull off the partial denture with it. Items like taffy, caramel, and chewing gums are a no-no.
• Hard foods fracture the bridge or wear the partial denture down if used over an extended period. Edibles like ice cubes, nuts, and popcorn kernels are on this list.
• Tough, chewy foods like meat steak as a whole are not good for your dental prosthetics. If you want your partial denture to last long, eat meat by cutting it into smaller pieces for easier chewing.

3. Checkups and Cleanings

According to the ADA (American Dental Association), regular dental visits can increase the life of partial dentures and make them last longer. Regular dental cleanings are a great means to help prevent gum disease. Oral bacteria and saliva combine to form a film-like layer on the tooth surface known as plaque. If bridges and natural teeth are not brushed properly and regularly, this thin plaque layer hardens to form tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. On the other hand, if tartar is left be, the situation turns graver, and you develop gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontal disease over time.

Closing Note

All in all, the answer to your question, “How long does a partial denture last?” is up to 10 years with good aftercare. You can get in touch with our specialist, Dr. Ram Nallapaneni, DDS, from the University of Illinois, Chicago, a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), at Riverside Family Dental for help and questions regarding the services we provide. Give us a call at (586) 468-0983 to schedule an appointment.