Dentures Aren’t Just for Seniors

Although teeth are supposed to last for a lifetime, 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 27% of adults aged 20 to 34 years have suffered tooth loss. Missing teeth are often associated with being elderly, but tooth loss can occur at any age. Dentures have been used for generations to restore complete, functional smiles. You don’t have to be a senior to benefit from dentures. Here’s why age doesn’t matter when replacing lost teeth.

Complications of Missing Teeth

No matter if you’ve lost a single tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch, it’s more than an aesthetic problem. Every tooth is essential for your dental health and oral functions. Losing even one increases your risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional missing teeth. Gaps in your smile can make it difficult to eat certain foods, which may cause you to eliminate them from your diet. This can cause nutritional deficiencies over time, negatively affecting your overall wellness. 

Who Is a Candidate for Dentures?

It’s best to replace your missing teeth promptly, no matter your age. If you’ve suffered severe tooth loss or your teeth are badly damaged, dentures may be right for you. Your dentist will examine your mouth to create a personalized treatment plan to restore a beautiful, functional smile for a healthy mouth and body.

Options for Replacing Lost Teeth

There are several options to replace lost teeth, depending on your situation. Your dentist will review all your options, which may include:

• Partial Denture: A partial denture can be used to fill the space of several lost teeth. Prosthetic teeth are affixed to a gum-colored base that has a metal framework. This allows it to clip or clasp onto your natural teeth to stay in place. Your partial will blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth for stunning results.
• Full Denture: Complete tooth loss in one arch can be treated with a full denture, which will rest on top of your gums and use suction to stay in place. New materials and technologies allow them to look and feel more realistic than before.
• Implant Denture: You can benefit from unmatched stability by using dental implants to anchor your denture to your jawbone. This method replaces both the tooth roots and the crowns, creating the next best thing to real teeth.

Age is just a number when it comes to treating tooth loss. It’s best to replace them sooner rather than later to safeguard your general wellness and dental health. You will look and feel your best with a new set of teeth.

About Dr. Patrick Crowley

Dr. Crowley earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and has continued his education in general dentistry, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. He provides the most up-to-date solutions in dentistry. Dr. Crowley is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or contact his office at (405) 510-0528.