Dentures are a popular solution to replace missing teeth because they provide both functional and aesthetic benefits. They help you eat and speak more like you did before tooth loss, which can improve the quality of your daily life. Not only that, but they can boost your confidence by giving you a full smile once again.
If you’ve waited a while after tooth loss to seek treatment, though, you might wonder if you’re still a viable candidate for dentures. Keep reading to find out why it might not be too late!
The Truth About Tooth Loss
Did you know that tooth loss weakens your jawbone? When we bite or chew the roots and nerves in our natural teeth provide stimulation that keeps it active and healthy. Once a tooth falls out, the body reabsorbs the bone mass left behind because it believes it’s no longer needed. That means that the longer you wait after tooth loss, the more compromised your jaw becomes. This can change the structure of your face, result in more missing teeth, and leave you without sufficient strength to support dental replacements.
How Dentures Work
Fortunately, there’s still a chance you’re a viable candidate for dentures even with bone degeneration. In fact, they can even help slow the process! There are different types of dentures that impact your mouth in different ways:
- Full dentures. These are required when you need to refurbish all your teeth. They suction snuggly against your gums to stay in place. If they fit properly, they’ll provide a certain amount of stimulation when you eat.
- Partial dentures. If you’re only missing a few pearly whites, you might fill in the gaps with this option. It consists of a removable plate with false teeth attached. It secures to the surrounding teeth via a metal framework and evenly distributes biting force. This helps keep them in place to keep your jaw invigorated.
- Implant dentures. Depending on whether you have enough bone density, your dentist can surgically implant support posts that your dentures attach to. This is the best method to give your jawbone what it needs to stay healthy.
If you don’t have sufficient bone structure in place for dentures or implants, it still doesn’t necessarily mean you’re without options. Many patients in similar circumstances bulk up their jaws with a bone graft, and then proceed with their replacements. Your dentist can work with you to devise a treatment plan so that soon you’ll have a full smile once again!
About the Practice
At Temple Choice Dental, our experienced team delivers world-class care with some of the most advanced dental technology available today. We provide a full range of services to patients of all ages, including restorations. Whether you’re interested in dental implants or dentures, our friendly team is happy to schedule a consultation. You are welcome to contact us on our website or by calling (254) 727-7144.