When Are Dentures Recommended?
When Are Dentures Recommended
Missing teeth can shake your confidence and make simple things like eating or speaking feel complicated. Maybe you’ve been wondering about your options, or your dentist has mentioned dentures during a recent visit. When are dentures recommended? You can find the answer in the Elite Family Dental of Brookfield guide to denture considerations for patients.
Why Dentists Recommend Dentures
When will a dentist recommend dentures? The answer depends on your specific oral health situation. Dentists typically suggest dentures when you’ve lost multiple teeth due to decay, gum disease, or injury. If you’re dealing with teeth that can’t be saved through other treatments like root canals or crowns, dentures become a practical solution. Advanced periodontal disease often leads to tooth loss, making dentures necessary to restore function and appearance.
Signs You Might Be a Good Candidate for Dentures
Being a candidate for dental dentures isn’t just about missing teeth. Your overall oral health, jawbone density, and lifestyle all play important roles. Good candidates typically have healthy gums that can support dentures comfortably. You’ll also need adequate bone structure in your jaw to provide proper support. People who maintain good oral hygiene and follow their dentist’s instructions tend to have the best outcomes with dentures. Here are key factors that make someone an ideal denture candidate:
- Healthy Gum Tissue: Free from active gum infection or severe inflammation
- Sufficient Bone Support: Adequate jawbone structure to hold dentures securely
- Realistic Expectations: Understanding that dentures require an adjustment period
- Good Overall Health: Ability to heal properly after tooth extractions if needed
Why Some People Choose Dentures Over Implants
The benefits of dentures over implants often come down to cost, timeline, and individual health factors. Dentures cost significantly less than dental implants and don’t require surgery. If you need multiple teeth replaced, dentures can address the entire arch at once rather than requiring individual implant placement. Some people aren’t good candidates for implant surgery due to medical conditions or insufficient bone density.
Different Denture Types for Different Needs
Complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower arch, while partial dentures fill gaps when you still have some healthy natural teeth. Immediate dentures are placed right after tooth extractions, allowing you to have teeth during the healing process. Implant-supported dentures combine the affordability of dentures with some stability benefits of implants. Your dentist will recommend the type that best fits your situation and budget.
What Happens When You Get Dentures
The denture process typically takes several weeks and multiple appointments. First, your dentist takes detailed impressions of your mouth to create custom-fitting dentures. If you need extractions, those happen first, followed by a healing period. During this time, temporary dentures might be provided. Once your gums heal completely, your final dentures are fitted and adjusted for comfort and proper bite alignment.
What to Do When You Have a Problem With Your Dentures
Denture emergencies can happen, and some situations have to be temporarily managed at home. If your dentures break, avoid using super glue or trying to fix them yourself. This often makes professional repairs more difficult. For loose dentures, denture adhesive can provide temporary stability until you can see your dentist. Sore spots from new dentures are common and usually improve as you adjust to wearing them. Here are a few quick emergency tips for denture wearers:
- Broken Denture: Keep all pieces and contact your dentist immediately.
- Lost Denture: Never go without dentures for extended periods, as your mouth shape can change.
- Sore Spots: Rinse with warm salt water and temporarily reduce wearing time.
- Food Stuck Under Dentures: Remove dentures and rinse both your mouth and the dentures thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures
When you’re thinking about getting dentures, we know it’s a major change (often for the better). So, it’s normal to have some questions about them. Here are answers to common questions about when dentures are recommended and what to expect during the process.
How long do dentures typically last?
Most dentures last between five and seven years with proper care and regular dental visits. Your mouth naturally changes over time, which can affect how well your dentures fit. Regular adjustments and eventual replacement help maintain comfort and function. Taking good care of your dentures by cleaning them daily and handling them carefully can extend their lifespan.
Can I eat normally with dentures?
You’ll need to adjust your eating habits initially, but most people can enjoy a varied diet with dentures. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces, then gradually introduce harder foods as you become more comfortable. Avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that might dislodge your dentures. Chewing on both sides of your mouth helps keep dentures stable during meals.
Will people notice I’m wearing dentures?
Modern dentures look very natural when properly fitted and made by skilled dental professionals. The key is working with an experienced dentist who understands facial support and natural tooth appearance. Well-made dentures actually improve your facial appearance by providing support for your lips and cheeks that may have sagged due to tooth loss.
Schedule a Denture Consultation Now!
Dentures can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. If you’re experiencing multiple tooth problems or have been told you need extractions, dentures might be the right solution for your situation. The expert team at Elite Family Dental of Brookfield has helped many patients in Brookfield, WI, navigate their denture options and find the best solution for their needs and budget. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from enjoying life. Contact Elite Family Dental of Brookfield today to schedule a consultation and learn more about whether dentures are right for you.