Patients have many reasons for getting dentures — as well as many concerns about the process — but in many cases, the benefits of getting artificial teeth outweigh any potential downsides. Many people who need dentures have experienced significant tooth loss and are not eligible or interested in other more invasive restoration procedures, such as dental implants. This option often requires multiple surgeries and months of healing time in between. Bridges require less dental work but are only viable for those who have lost no more than three or four adjacent teeth with healthy surrounding teeth to anchor the device.
Dentures are often recommended for people dealing with severe tooth damage or loss. They can also be used to replace just one or two missing teeth in individuals who cannot receive other types of treatments. While full dentures can be used to replace all of a patient's teeth, many people receive partial dentures to address just a few missing teeth instead.
Those who see these removable teeth as a marker of old age are mistaken in this assumption, as these convenient appliances can restore smiles in patients of all ages. Dentures offer a host of perks that can improve dental and overall health. Interested individuals should speak to a qualified dentist about whether they are good candidates for dentures.
Who is a good candidate for dentures?
Before mentally committing to wearing dentures, a patient must first determine whether a dentist is likely to give the go-ahead to begin the process. Good candidates for artificial teeth include patients who have lost most or all teeth, patients with tender, bleeding gums, and patients with large gaps that cause tooth shifting, improper bites, and pain. A patient may also need dentures before the age of 60 if a medical condition affects teeth, causes decay, or makes gum disease more prevalent than normal.
Keep in mind that wearing dentures requires good home care practices. The appliances must be removed and cleaned nightly to prevent staining, damage, and oral irritation. Routine checkups are also essential to maintain a good fit.
Benefits of receiving dentures
Patients should speak to dentists with experience providing dentures before making any big commitments or life-altering decisions. In researching artificial teeth and how to care for these new devices, these patients may learn that there are more pros than cons of having dentures. High-quality denture sets provide patients with the following real-world benefits:
Improved stability: People need teeth and the surrounding structures to support healthy jaws and facial muscles. Dentures help people with many missing teeth to regain this support.
Higher self-confidence: Even people with the highest self-esteem may feel a bit down when confronted with a smile that does not meet expectations. Dentures can assist people in feeling youthful and energetic again.
Clearer speech: Patients who have always been able to enunciate words clearly may be alarmed at the lack of ability to communicate after losing teeth. Dentures can help these patients regain regular articulation and feel normal again.
Fewer dental visits: Unless a patient has trouble with the dentures or gums, the frequency of yearly dental visits may decrease. Dentures can be cleaned at home and do not need the same intensive care that natural teeth do.
More diverse food choices: Many denture patients will be pleased to know that their favorite foods can be put back on the menu. Dentures, like natural teeth, can chomp through a wide variety of foods and textures — though some, like sticky or tacky foods, may need to be avoided.
Patients who are considering dentures must make the choice after taking into account dental health, lifestyle, and ability to care for remaining natural teeth. Though it may not be a simple decision, it can be worth the pain avoided and the time saved caring for natural teeth that are no longer benefitting the patient.
Conclusion
Dentures are not just for senior citizens. These appliances can provide numerous benefits for those who lost teeth or cannot devote time to care for multiple dental conditions. Dentures can help you enjoy a beautiful smile again while also improving your dental health, enhancing your speech, aiding in digestion, and more.
Your dentist can help you find the right options to suit your unique mouth so you have more realistic results with a secure and comfortable fit. Get in touch with an experienced dentist today to determine whether high-quality artificial teeth are the correct choice for you.
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