Contrary to belief, dentures are not just for the elderly. When you do not maintain oral health, you may suffer from tooth loss and dentures are one of the effective ways to replace missing teeth.

Reasons for getting dentures

  • Not visiting a dentist regularly – it is crucial to visit a dentist regularly in order to ensure gum diseases and tooth decay remain in check. When cavities or other periodontal problems take hold of your teeth, it may have to be extracted and you would require dentures.
  • Gaps or loose and shifting teeth – loose teeth are a sign of advanced gum disease. In case extensive periodontal treatment is used, the tooth will have to be extracted.
  • Chronic toothaches – tooth pain indicates decay is in progress and has reached the nerves. When caught in time, it can be treated with a filling; however, at an advanced stage, it will require extraction and partial dentures.
  • Tender, red, swollen and bleeding gums – irritated gums also indicate periodontal diseases or gingivitis. It is also the main reason for tooth loss in adults. When left untreated, gum diseases lead to tooth loss.
  • Missing teeth – when one or more teeth are missing, getting dentures will reduce pressure on the remaining teeth.

Complete and partial dentures

Complete dentures are used when the tooth is completely missing; whereas, partial dentures are used when some of the natural tooth is still remaining.

Complete dentures can be conventional or immediate and these are made when the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has had sufficient time to heal. They can be used within 12 weeks once the tooth has been completely removed. Immediate complete dentures are made in advance and positioned once the tooth is removed.

Partial dentures or bridges consist of replacement teeth which are attached to the gum or on the pink colored base made in plastic. These are used when one or more teeth are still on the upper or lower jaw. A fixed bridge replaces one or more teeth when the crown is put on the teeth on any side of the space and artificial teeth are attached on them.

When you get any kind of denture, you must know that insurance can pay for your treatment. You must speak with your insurance company to determine whether your dentures will be covered or not.

If you are interested in learning more about dentures, contact our office today!