Dentures are a common and cost-effective solution for people who have lost multiple or all of their natural teeth. Removable prosthetic devices replace missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Dentures can help improve the appearance of a person's smile, restore their ability to bite and chew properly and improve their speech. They are also easy to clean and maintain and can be customized to fit the shape and size of the patient's mouth. Dentures can be a good option for people who are not suitable candidates for other teeth replacement options like dental implants or bridges.
Dentures
Dentures are a type of removable prosthetic device designed to replace missing teeth. They are made of a plastic or acrylic base shaped to fit the gums and have artificial teeth attached to the base.
Dentures come in two main types:
- Full dentures — They replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, and
- Partial dentures — They replace only some of the teeth in the jaw.
Dentures are typically held in place by suction or with the help of dental adhesive and can be removed for cleaning and at night while sleeping. They can be made from acrylic, metal, or a combination of both. They can be held in place by suction or with the help of dental adhesive.
Common Reasons People Need Dentures
Though dentures mainly target individuals who have lost teeth, particularly the elderly, they are not the only candidates for dentures. Here is a look at some reasons that inform people’s pursuit of dentures:
a) Genetics or Age
Genetics and age can both play a role in the need for dentures. Some people are predisposed to losing their teeth due to genetics, which can cause dental issues like advanced tooth decay, gum disease, or jaw bone loss. As we age, our teeth and gums become weaker and more susceptible to damage, which can also lead to the need for dentures.
Additionally, people with a history of poor oral hygiene, smoking, or heavy alcohol consumption could also have an increased risk of losing their teeth as they age. Dentures can help replace missing teeth and improve oral health in these cases.
Regular visits to the dentist, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, and practicing good oral hygiene can help prevent dentures or delay the need for them.
b) Trauma or Injury
A severe injury to the mouth, like a broken jaw or lost teeth, can cause extensive damage to the teeth, gums, and jawbone. In these cases, dentures can help to restore your appearance and function.
For example, if you have lost teeth due to an accident, a sports injury, or a fight, dentures can replace the missing teeth and improve your ability to chew and speak properly. They can also help preserve the shape of your jaw and facial structure, which can change over time when teeth are missing.
Additionally, if you have suffered injuries to your jaw, like a broken jaw, dentures can also be used as a temporary solution while the jaw heals. They can help keep the jaw in place and allow you to eat and speak while it heals.
A dentist or a maxillofacial surgeon should determine the best treatment if you have suffered any injuries. He/she will also advise you on whether dentures are the right solution for your case.
c) Missing teeth
Missing teeth can be a considerable concern that could significantly impact oral health, appearance, and quality of life. Dentures are a traditional solution for people who have lost one or more teeth, as they can help replace missing teeth and improve oral health.
Dentures can help improve your smile's appearance, restore your ability to chew and speak properly and prevent the shifting of your remaining natural teeth. They can also help to preserve the shape of your jaw and facial structure, which can change over time when teeth are missing.
d) Advanced tooth decay
Advanced tooth decay can lead to the need for dentures, as it can cause severe damage or even tooth loss. Advanced tooth decay results from a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can erode the enamel and lead to cavities. If left untreated, advanced tooth decay can progress to the tooth's inner layers and cause severe damage or even tooth loss. In this case, there could be a need for the tooth’s extraction and replacement with dentures.
It is essential to consult a dentist or a prosthodontist to determine if dentures are the right option for you and which type of dentures best fit your needs. Regular follow-up visits with your dentist are necessary to ensure the fit and function of your dentures and also to prevent further decay or gum disease from happening in the future.
e) Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can lead to the need for dentures as it can cause inflammation, bleeding, and, eventually, the loss of the supporting tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place. This can lead to loose or missing teeth.
Teeth become so loose in advanced cases of gum disease that they must be extracted. Dentures can then replace missing teeth.
You should consult a dentist or a prosthodontist to determine if dentures are the right option for you and which type best fits your needs. Regular follow-up visits with your dentist are essential to ensure the fit and function of your dentures and also to prevent further gum disease from happening in the future.
Further, maintaining proper oral hygiene is necessary. Regularly brush and floss your teeth and schedule regular dental checkups to help prevent and treat gum disease.
How Do You Know When You Need Dentures?
Several signs indicate that you need dentures. If you experience the following symptoms, it strongly suggests that it is time to go for dentures. However, a dental expert will make the final determination of whether dentures are the right fit.
Several signs indicate the need for dentures, such as:
- Missing teeth — If you have lost several or all of your natural teeth, dentures can replace them to improve your appearance and ability to chew and speak.
- Difficulty chewing — If you find it difficult to chew food or avoid certain foods because of missing teeth, dentures can help restore your eating ability.
- Difficulty speaking — Missing teeth can affect your speech, and dentures can help restore your ability to speak clearly.
- Sagging facial features — When you lose your teeth, your jawbone and facial structure can change over time. Dentures can help to preserve your jawline and facial structure.
- Unhappy with your smile — If you are self-conscious about your missing teeth affecting your confidence level, dentures can help improve your appearance and confidence.
Who is Not a Good Candidate for Dentures?
Dentures are not a good fit for every individual. There are specific conditions, some of which are addressed below, that would make dentures an unsuitable solution for you. The conditions include the following:
a) Individuals With Severe Jawbone Loss
Dentures are supported and stabilized by a certain amount of healthy jawbone. If an individual has severe jawbone loss, the dentures cannot fit properly, thus causing discomfort.
b) Persons With Certain Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, make it more difficult for the body to heal and adapt to the presence of dentures.
c) Individuals With Poor Oral Hygiene
Dentures require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacterial or fungal infections. Individuals who have poor oral hygiene may not be good candidates for dentures.
d) Individuals With a History of Allergies or Sensitivities to the Materials Used in Dentures
Some people have allergic reactions to the acrylic or metal used in dentures, which can cause irritation or swelling of the gums or mouth. If so, you will need an alternative solution, not dentures.
e) Individuals Who Cannot Remove and Clean Their Dentures
Dentures require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent bacterial or fungal infections. People who cannot remove and clean their dentures risk suffering other ailments due to bacterial or fungal infections, and thus, dentists will not recommend dentures due to the potential risk of future complications.
f) People Unwilling to Commit to the Time and Effort Required to Adapt To Dentures
Dentures require a period of adaptation. They could cause some discomfort during the initial stages. Individuals unwilling to commit to the time and effort needed to adapt to dentures could not be good candidates for them. Dentists will make this determination based on assessments made with every review.
You must discuss your needs and medical history with a dentist or prosthodontist to determine if dentures are the right option. They will be able to evaluate your oral health and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your needs.
What to Expect in a Dentist Appointment Before He/She Recommends Dentures
When you first visit a dentist for a consultation about dentures, they will likely perform a comprehensive oral examination. This will include an inspection of your gums, teeth, jaw, and oral structures. The dentist will also take x-rays and impressions of your mouth to understand your oral health better and plan the treatment.
During the consultation, the dentist will discuss your concerns and goals and ask questions about your oral health history and any current symptoms you could be experiencing. They will also examine your present oral hygiene routine and recommend changes to your daily habits to maintain healthy gums and teeth.
The dentist will then explain the different types of dentures available and recommend the best option for your needs. They will also discuss the benefits and risks of dentures and explain the process of getting dentures, including the time frame and cost.
Remain honest and open with your dentist during the consultation. Ask questions about the process, the cost, and the expected outcomes. Your dentist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.
Additionally, if you have any oral health issues or need other treatment before getting dentures, the dentist will discuss that with you and recommend a plan accordingly.
Risks Associated With Dentures
Dentures are not risk-free. When considering dentures, it is necessary to consider the potential risks. Here is a look at some of them;
- Sore spots — Dentures could cause sore spots on the gums or mouth, particularly if they do not fit properly. This can be uncomfortable and may make it difficult to eat or speak.
- Gum irritation — Dentures could irritate the gums, leading to inflammation, redness, and bleeding. Ill-fitting dentures or poor oral hygiene could also cause gum irritation.
- Difficulty eating — You also risk experiencing difficulty while eating certain foods, particularly if the dentures do not fit correctly or you are not used to wearing them. This can impact your nutrient absorption and could potentially lead to weight loss.
- Speech difficulties — In some cases, dentures affect speech, particularly if they do not fit correctly. This situation could lead to slurring or difficulty pronouncing certain words.
- Bone loss — You could experience bone loss with dentures. It is a common experience for patients with improperly fitted or irregularly worn dentures. This can lead to a change in the shape of the jaw and face and could make it necessary to have the dentures refitted or replaced.
- Allergic reactions — As pointed out earlier, some people experience allergic reactions to denture materials, including the acrylic or metal used in the denture base or the artificial teeth. In these cases, itching, redness, and swelling of the gums or mouth are likely.
- Stomatitis — Dentures can cause stomatitis or inflammation of the oral mucosa if the patient fails to clean or remove the dentures overnight.
- Bacterial or fungal Infections — Dentures can also harbor bacteria and fungus, leading to infections in the mouth, gums, or dentures themselves.
Work closely with your dentist or prosthodontist to ensure that your dentures fit properly and are adjusted as needed. Further, practice good oral hygiene habits to minimize the risk of complications. Ensure to honor follow-up visits with your dentist to ensure the fit and function of your dentures and prevent further oral health issues.
Other Teeth Replacement Options Other Than Dentures
If dentures are not a perfect fit for you, your dentist could recommend the following alternatives:
a) Dental Implants
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to support artificial teeth. Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option and can replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth.
b) Bridges
Bridges are a type of dental prosthetic used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge is anchored to the remaining natural teeth on either side of the gap and is cemented in place.
c) All-on-4
The All-on-4 solution is a type of dental implant treatment that uses four dental implants to support an entire arch of artificial teeth. This method is an excellent option for patients with missing teeth and minimal jawbone density.
d) Inlay or Onlay
Inlays and onlays are dental restorations used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. They are made of porcelain or composite material bonded to the tooth surface.
e) Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They are a great alternative to traditional metal braces and are virtually invisible.
f) Mini dental implants
Mini dental implants are a smaller version of traditional dental implants. They are used to support dentures and are an excellent option for patients who have minimal jawbone density.
g) Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs)
RPDs are dental prosthetics used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are held in place by a metal framework and are removable for cleaning.
Why Dentures are the Better Option Other Than Other Teeth Replacement Options
Dentures are a popular teeth replacement option for several reasons:
- Cost-effectiveness — Dentures are typically less expensive than other teeth replacement options like dental implants or bridges.
- Non-invasive — Dentures do not require surgery or invasive procedures, making them a good option for patients who are not suitable candidates for surgical procedures.
- Customizable — Dentures can be customized to fit the shape and size of the patient's mouth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
- Easy to clean — Dentures are easy to remove and clean, making them a convenient option for patients who have difficulty cleaning other dental prosthetics.
- Versatile — Dentures can replace an entire arch of missing teeth or just a few missing teeth. They can also be used to correct bite issues or improve an individual’s smile.
- Improve speech and eating — Dentures can help improve speech and eating by replacing missing teeth and restoring the patient's ability to bite and chew properly.
Find a Tarzana Cosmetic Dentist Near Me
If you consider dentures a tooth replacement option, consult a dentist or dental specialist immediately. During the consultation, the dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays, and discuss your medical history to determine if dentures are the best option for you. They will also discuss the different types of dentures available, the cost, and the process of getting dentures.
Additionally, have realistic expectations about your dentures' appearance, fit, and function. Dentures could take some time to get used to, and you could need to adjust or refit them as your mouth changes.
Feel free to schedule an appointment with Tarzana Dental Care and explore the benefits of dentures and the best options that suit your needs and preferences. Contact us today at 818-708-3232.