Many people want to hold onto their natural teeth for as long as possible. And, with a regular oral health care routine and dental checks, that’s entirely achievable. However, through life choices and circumstances, sometimes a cosmetic dentist can see the need to offer their patient the option of dentures. At what point do they become a valid option? Read on to find out.
Your Teeth Are Loose
Teeth, naturally, should not be loose. However, gum disease can affect the roots of your teeth, causing them to work their way free. Loose teeth are prone to falling out and cracking, not to mention being more at risk of bacteria settling in and causing infection. At this point, your dentist might recommend dentures.
You Have Red and Swollen Gums
Healthy gums are pink, but unhealthy ones that are showing signs of periodontal disease are red and swollen. Early on, gingivitis can be reversed through oral hygiene and dental cleaning. However, the longer you leave it before taking action, the more likely you are to need dentures as time goes on.
You Have Trouble Chewing Food
Teeth that are not in the best condition make for inferior chewing tools! Anyone who has loose, missing, or sore teeth may find that a trip to the dentist is in order. At that point, a dentist might recommend treatment options or could believe you could benefit from a set of dentures.
Your Teeth Ache
Of course, not every niggle, ache, and pain in your mouth is going to signal the need for dentures, but continual aching might. Constant toothache can be a sign that decay has reached nerves in your mouth.
If the ache is in one tooth, then a filling is often most dentists’ recommendation for rectifying the problem. However, if the pain radiates across most teeth due to vast amounts of decay, then dentures could be a way to solve it.
You’re Missing a Lot of Teeth
One of two missing teeth usually is not a significant issue. Dentists solve the problem with dental implants, to ensure that bone mass loss and jaw structure does not become a problem in the future. However, with significant tooth loss, it might be time for anyone in that position to look at dentures. Both partial and full denture plates are available for many people who are missing teeth.
Denture Options
If you’ve spoken to your cosmetic dentist about dentures, or you believe they might be right for you, then there are two types to consider. Full dentures replace all your teeth and rest on your gums while getting much-needed support from your jawbone’s curvature.
Partial dentures fill the gaps left by missing teeth and are secured to the rear sides of your natural teeth. Some people may also prefer the option of supported dentures, which involves multiple dental implants to secure a full set of teeth in place.
If it has been some time since you’ve had a dental check-up, and you’ve noticed a few of these signs above, then make an appointment with your dentist. Everyone deserves to have teeth that make them happy.