Despite the life-changing results a set of quality dentures can give, some folks are still wary about them.
Because they’re so closely tied to aging, people often think of dentures as something “only old people get”. However, the truth is people lose teeth for a variety of reasons, from genetics to accidents. And, for many of these folks, no matter their age, dentures can be the best answer to getting their smile back.
To help you understand how beneficial dentures are, we’re going to cover the benefits of false teeth so you can decide if dentures are right for you.
But, before we do that, let’s define what dentures are to make sure we’re all on the same page.
What are dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic, or false teeth that are attached to a removable dental appliance. Typically, they are held in place by fixtures that attach to the remaining teeth or the gums.
Dentures can be grouped into four main categories:
Complete dentures – These are the dentures we usually think of. Whether a full set of bottom or top (or both) they completely replace all the teeth in the jaw with prosthetics.
Partial dentures – From a single prosthetic tooth to half a mouth, dentures can also be used to fill gaps in a smile.
Immediate dentures – If teeth need to be pulled to make way for complete dentures, the gums need healing time before long-term dentures can be fitted. In the between time, immediate dentures are used until the gums are healed.
Implant-retained dentures – These are prosthetic teeth that are held in place by attaching to titanium posts installed in the gums.
The benefits of prosthetic teeth
Though dentures are the simplest form of prosthetic teeth, they offer wearers significant benefits.
Look
While original dentures were carved from wood or bone, new dentures are made from high-tech materials that closely resemble real teeth. Each set of dentures is crafted to high standards and finished to match any remaining teeth, making it almost impossible to spot a set of prosthetic teeth (until they’re removed, that is!)
Function
From fostering a better eating experience to ensuring your jaw stays in alignment, dentures help you maintain a fully functioning mouth. They also help even out gaps in your smile that are hard to brush and leave hiding places for food and bacteria. This helps you maintain greater overall oral health!
Affordability
There are so many options you have today to replace missing or unhealthy teeth, and each choice has its pros and cons. However, when it comes to price, you won’t find a more affordable option than dentures. That’s why these simple prosthetics are the most popular option when it comes to fixing a broken smile.
Denture drawbacks
If you are considering dentures, it’s important to understand the drawbacks of this procedure too. These include:
- Discomfort or sores from shifting or ill-fitting dentures
- Difficulty eating sticky or crunchy foods
- Inconvenient cleaning
Find out if dentures are right for you
If you’re on the fence about getting dentures, we encourage you to reach out to us here at Bow Island Dental! We can guide you through your options and help you make the right decision for your unique smile.