"How Long Should a Denture Last? Eight Essential Considerations for Seniors Wearing Dentures"
Currently, there are approximately 260 million people aged 55 and above in China, with over a quarter of the elderly population wearing dentures. Experts have pointed out that improper care of dentures can potentially lead to hidden risks of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, denture stomatitis, bacterial pneumonia, and other illnesses. The following scenarios pose specific health hazards to the elderly. Here are two common mistakes to avoid when wearing dentures:
1. Do Not Remove Dentures While Sleeping
Many elderly individuals refrain from removing their dentures for convenience, but this practice poses a safety hazard. Sleeping with dentures increases the risk of esophageal injury if they dislodge and enter the esophagus. Swallowing dentures can lead to gastrointestinal complications such as bleeding and perforation, potentially damaging other organs and causing obstruction in the small intestine, endangering life.
2. Not Replacing Dentures Regularly
Some elderly individuals wear the same dentures for extended periods, even after they have become ill-fitting due to adaptation or fear of inconvenience. This practice is incorrect. Prolonged use of dentures accelerates alveolar ridge resorption and gum recession, making it difficult to secure and fit new dentures. It is recommended to replace dentures every five years or so.
Precautions for Elderly Wearing Dentures:
Initially, wearing dentures may cause a foreign body sensation, increased saliva, nausea, or vomiting. Speech may be unclear, and chewing may be uncomfortable. These are normal reactions that will gradually dissipate with continued use.
When removing or inserting dentures, practice patiently and gently. Avoid forcing them, as this can damage the clasps. Push and pull the dentures from the edges of the base, not using force on the clasps. When inserting, use your hands to position them before biting down to prevent damage.
Initially, avoid hard foods and practice with soft foods before gradually introducing harder items.
Mucosal soreness or ulcers may occur initially. Follow up for adjustments. If unable to do so promptly, remove the dentures and soak them in cold water. However, wear them for a few hours before your follow-up appointment to accurately identify pressure points.
Remove dentures after meals, clean them, and reinsert to prevent food debris buildup. Before bed, remove and clean them with toothpaste or soap water, then soak in cold water (not boiling water or disinfectant).
If discomfort persists, seek prompt revision. Do not attempt to modify the dentures yourself or go without them for extended periods, as oral tissue changes may render them unusable.
Schedule regular check-ups every six months to a year to address any issues and maintain oral health.
After removing dentures, brush the adjacent teeth to remove food debris and prevent decay.
Reminder: The above information highlights essential considerations for elderly individuals wearing dentures. Maintaining oral health is crucial for overall quality of life.
