Signs You Might Need Dentures
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Dentures aren’t just for senior citizens anymore. Dentures are so common, in fact, that it’s estimated by 2020, 37.9 million U.S. adults are expected to wear them. Even the younger generation can feel better with dentures to help them get through the tough teenage years with Orthodontic Treatment. If you’re missing teeth, you no longer have to suffer the embarrassment or problems that come from an incomplete smile. It may be time for dentures. Here a few ways to tell.
So You Need Dentures, Do Ya?
Dentures solve more than cosmetic problems. They can help fix problems with eating and speech that come with lost teeth. There can be many reasons you need dentures, especially if:
- You do not go to the dentist regularly–no one enjoys going to the dentist, but those twice-a-year checkups are important for keeping gum disease at bay. You dentist can keep an eye on small changes and fix them before they turn into major problems. If you do not go regularly, small problems can turn into large ones, increasing your likelihood to need dentures.
- You experience frequent toothaches–this can be a sign that your tooth decay has progressed into the pulp or root of the tooth. Tooth decay is highly treatable when it’s caught early. However, once it progresses to an advanced state, it can result in the loss of the tooth.
- Your gums are bleeding or swelling–one of the tell tale signs of gum disease. Red, irritated gums are a sign of early stage gingivitis or periodontal disease, which affects 3 out of 4 people at some point during their lives. Gum disease can be corrected or even reversed with regular dental care. However, advanced gum disease is the cause for nearly 70% of tooth loss.
- You’re missing one or more teeth–when you start losing teeth, it’s necessary to add in replacement teeth to literally “fill the gaps” and reduce pressure on your other teeth, which can weaken them further. Lost teeth look unsightly and may cause you to hide your smile.
- Eating certain foods give you trouble–missing or damaged teeth or gums can make it difficult to eat certain foods like corn on the cob or meats. Getting dentures means you can enjoy your favorite foods once again.
- You suffer from indigestion regularly–if you have problems with chewing your food, often you end up swallowing larger pieces of food. This can lead to indigestion, which is indirectly caused by tooth problems.
- Your teeth have gaps or they’re loose/shifting–this can signal impending gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Teeth can shift into open spaces in your mouth and create crowding or other less than ideal situations.
Dentures are an affordable way to treat mouth and tooth problems, and with regular maintenance, can last for many years.
Once you get dentures, they will need regular maintenance. Check for signs of wear and monitor the fit regularly. Denture repair is sometimes necessary. If you are unsure if your dentures need fixing, check with a dentist who can make the determination. Proper maintenance will ensure your dentures last as long as possible, and deliver the most comfortable, natural fit. Find a dentist who can fit you for dentures and put an end to your tooth problems for good.
