Have you been grappling with the challenges of long-term tooth loss? If so, you may be eager to determine whether dentures are still a suitable solution for you. Over time, dentures have consistently demonstrated their reliability and popularity as an option for replacing missing teeth, providing countless patients with both functional and aesthetic advantages. To find out if individuals who have experienced prolonged tooth loss can still consider dentures, read on.
The Problem with Missing Teeth
A significant concern linked to tooth loss is a process called bone resorption. In this process, the body recognizes a lack of stimulation in the jawbone and starts to reabsorb the bone tissue. Typically, activities like biting and chewing provide crucial stimulation to the jawbone, maintaining its strength and capacity to support teeth.
However, when teeth are missing, the areas of the jawbone that would typically receive this stimulation gradually miss out on this essential activity. This can result in bone resorption, facial collapse, an elevated risk of tooth loss, and various other undesirable complications. Hence, an ideal solution for tooth restoration should not only replace missing teeth but also counteract the effects of bone resorption.
How Dentures Function
Thankfully, bone resorption doesn’t make patients ineligible for dentures; in fact, these restorations can help slow down this process. There are various different types of dentures available to patients, and each is tailored to meet specific needs.
Partial dentures are an excellent choice for individuals with a few missing teeth as they effectively fill in the gaps. Conversely, full dentures are custom-made for patients who have lost all their teeth in either the upper, lower, or both arches.
Typically, dentures consist of a base and replacement teeth. While dental implants can provide additional stability in certain cases, dentures primarily rely on muscle control to remain in place. For temporary extra support and stability, denture adhesive can also be used.
Avoiding Jawbone Deterioration
Consistently wearing dentures properly can significantly impact the prevention or deceleration of jawbone loss. Dentures offer stimulation to the gums, which aids in preserving the strength and structure of the jawbone, thereby promoting overall oral health.
Nonetheless, it’s important to recognize that denture stimulation might be inadequate, particularly when the dentures are ill-fitting. While dentures can assist in slowing down the process of bone resorption, they cannot entirely halt it, as natural changes in the mouth persist over time.
Dentures remain a viable option for individuals who have faced prolonged tooth loss. Although they may not completely halt the process of bone resorption, they offer both functional and aesthetic benefits. With proper care and maintenance, they can significantly improve the quality of life for those requiring tooth replacement.
About the Practice
TrueCare Dentistry, situated in Mesquite, welcomes a diverse range of patients. We take pride in our commitment to delivering outstanding and highly efficient dental procedures, with a particular focus on revitalizing smiles for individuals who have lost several or all of their teeth. Our comprehensive services encompass dentures and partials, and we approach these restorative treatments with meticulous care to provide effective and customized tooth replacement solutions tailored to the unique needs of each patient. If you seek more information about dentures or wish to schedule an appointment, get in touch with TrueCare Dentistry at (469) 399-7288 or visit our website.