Signs You Might Need Dentures

People have used false teeth for hundreds of years, from animal teeth to porcelain prosthetics. Today’s restorative dentistry options give us more choices for a natural look and comfortable feel. Dentures remain a vital option for adults with tooth loss, and your family dentist is a trusted resource when it’s time to consider replacing lost or damaged teeth. You want professionally designed, custom-fitted dentures to enhance your appearance and make eating and speaking easier.

What Are Dentures?

21st Century dentures consist of artificial teeth made of acrylic resin attached to a gum-colored plastic base. Depending on your level of tooth loss, you can choose complete dentures to replace all of your teeth or a removable partial denture. Partial dentures replace smaller sections of teeth using a metal framework to attach to existing teeth. Removable partials differ from a bridge, which is permanently attached to neighboring teeth using crowns. When you opt for complete dentures, the base of the upper denture adheres to the roof of your mouth. The lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe and uses your tongue, cheek muscles and saliva to stay in place.

What Are The Advantages of Dentures?

Dentures improve your appearance and self-confidence if you experience tooth loss. They support the muscles of the cheeks and lips to avoid a saggy, sunken look. Dentures are less expensive than other restorative options like dental implants and are often covered by insurance.

How Do I Know When I Need Dentures?

Multiple missing teeth are generally the primary reason patients choose dentures. Usually, one missing tooth is easy to fix with other options. But when you reach three or more missing teeth, it may be time to discuss dentures with your dentist. Other signs it may be time to consider dentures include:

• Painful chewing
• Chronic gum disease
• Loose teeth
• Damaged and unsightly teeth cause you to avoid smiling

If you have significant tooth loss or other symptoms, have your teeth evaluated by a dentist who can help you determine whether dentures are right for you.

Do I Have To Get My Teeth Extracted for Dentures?

If you choose complete dentures, your dentist will extract your remaining teeth. Your gum tissue needs to heal before you can wear your dentures.

Does It Take Long To Get Used To Dentures?

It can take a few weeks to get used to wearing dentures. Your lower denture, in particular, may feel loose until your mouth muscles get used to holding it in place. But soon, your mouth muscles will adapt, and you’ll get accustomed to speaking and chewing with your dentures. The American Dental Association recommends the following steps to make the process easier:

• Cut foods into small pieces for easy chewing
• Chew with equal pressure on both sides of your mouth
• Avoid hard or sticky foods and chewing gum.
• Don’t wear dentures full-time, as they can irritate your gum tissue. Most dentists recommend taking them out at night and returning them in the morning.

Should I Check Out a Low-Cost Denture Center?

If you have significant tooth loss or damage, you need an evaluation from a professional dentist. Your family dentist can assess your oral health and help you find the right solution. In some cases, your dentist can repair existing teeth. Dental implants or bridges may work best if you have lost a few teeth and don’t want to extract healthy ones. If you decide on dentures, your dentist can ensure you get the right quality and fit. Your dentist will:

• Work with a reputable prosthetics company to create dentures just for you with a natural look.
• Check the fit and make adjustments as needed.
• Repair your dentures properly if they break or chip.

While a denture center may be tempting, it often means lower quality and a less natural look. Hall Family Dentistry has decades of experience in restorative dentistry. Dr. Hall will complete an assessment and recommend a treatment plan based on best practices. If you decide dentures are the right option, he’ll ensure you get a high-quality prosthesis that will help you look and feel your best.