It’s never too early to start thinking about your teeth. Many people wonder if they should get dentures, whether it is too early, or if they are able to wear dentures with an existing oral condition.
Ultimately, there is no definite answer to these questions. The decision to get dentures depends on your unique oral situation.
The best thing for you to do is consult with a denturist who can help you decide which route would be best for your needs.
In this article, we cover some frequently asked questions about dentures to help you decide if it’s the right time for you to take the next step and book a consultation.
When do people get dentures?
Most commonly, people who require dentures are between the ages of 55 and 64. Despite the fact that dentures are commonly thought to be for individuals over the age of 50, younger people may require partial dentures or dental implants if they have lost their teeth.
If you are wondering whether it’s time for dentures, consider the following:
Do you have any loose teeth?
Loose teeth can indicate that your gums are receding. The muscle and tissue that hold your teeth in place are slowly deteriorating. This means the tooth has less support, which can cause your tooth to be looser, and could result in persistent toothaches.
Do you find yourself unable to eat certain foods?
Foods, like apples and corn on the cob, can be difficult to eat with loose or missing teeth because these foods require significant pressure when you bite down. If you are avoiding hard or crunchy foods because it is difficult to chew them, you might find dentures helpful in returning to your normal diet.
Do your gums appear swollen?
Swollen or red gums can be a sign of gum disease, an infection caused by plaque build-up. Your dentist might recommend surgery to remove the infected tissue and help protect your teeth. Dentures can also help prevent future infections from starting by covering any open ridges where bacteria can collect. If you think your gums might be swollen, contact us to book a consultation.
How long after tooth removal can I get dentures?
Most patients choose to get dentures immediately or temporary dentures that are inserted at extractions so they don’t have to go without teeth. These dentures are made in as little as one appointment.
How long does it take to get a denture made?
Permanent or replacement dentures can be made in 4-6 appointments. Typically, the appointments are:
- Consultation
- Impression of your teeth
- Fitting the denture
- Insertion
Can you get dentures with periodontal disease or gum disease?
It’s best to have a good foundation before starting with dentures. If you have gum disease, dentures will exacerbate your condition and cause further damage to your gums.
For this reason, if you have any signs of gum disease, it is best to get it treated before you begin wearing dentures. Your dentist can help to relieve the symptoms of your gum disease and allow you time to heal before treatment. This will allow for a better denture experience.
What if I can’t get used to dentures, can I get implants?
Absolutely! Complete dentures, especially lower dentures, can be very difficult for patients to feel comfortable. If your existing dentures are still in good condition, we may be able to use them to attach to implants. There are several types of implant dentures that can be considered, based on your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and review your options. We will give you a reason to smile!
