6 Tell-Tale Signs That You May Need Dentures Someday

When you think back on your childhood, did it seem that everyone of a certain age had dentures? If so, this may have led you to believe that losing your teeth at a certain point is a given, but that's simply not the case. Your teeth, with proper care, should last you a lifetime. By maintaining excellent oral hygiene, seeing your dentist regularly, and correcting issues like cavities while they're still small issues, you can avoid the need for dentures. 

The idea that everyone ends up with dentures when they get older is a misconception. However, if you are experiencing these six tell-tale signs, you may need dentures someday.

You Struggle With Frequent Tooth Pain

Waking up with a sudden and persistent toothache can be a signal from your body that decay has progressed to the pulp inside a tooth. Caught early, tooth decay can be treated with a simple filling, but when the decay advances, the options for restoring the tooth are more invasive and costly. When teeth are badly damaged and left untreated, there's always the risk that saving the tooth is not a possibility. 

You Don't Make Routine Cleanings and Exams a Priority 

Seeing your dentist twice a year for semi-annual dental checkups is a critical piece in maintaining the overall health of your teeth. During these routine exams, your dentist can discover small problems or potential issues. 

You Don't Have Minor Dental Issues Corrected

By treating minor issues before they cause severe damage, you can help save money and your teeth from future restorative dentistry treatments. If dental disease progresses past a certain point, tooth extraction may be the only possible treatment option. 

Your Gums Are Swollen, Tender, and Red 

Struggling with swollen, tender bleeding or red gums is an early indication of gum disease. By treating gum disease aggressively, you can help to save your teeth from permanent damage. However, periodontal disease left untreated will progress to the point of permanent tooth loss. If you start to lose several teeth due to gum disease, dentures may be the only viable option for restoring your smile. 

You're Missing Several Teeth 

As previously mentioned, if you've already lost one or more teeth, it's critical to have them replaced by a dental bridge or dental implants. Left untreated, missing teeth cause shifting and other issues. If you have loose or shifting teeth, the gaps between the teeth become wider. These symptoms often indicate bone loss related to undiscovered periodontal disease. If bone loss is severe, tooth loss may be inevitable. In these cases, dentures may be the most practical and affordable option for replacing multiple teeth. 

You're Self-Conscious About Your Smile 

Sometimes, dentures can be an aesthetic choice. Certain patients may elect to have dentures earlier than they may need them because of their front teeth' appearance when they smile. Dentures can be an excellent way to restore lost confidence in the appearance of your teeth. 

Not Everyone Will Need Dentures

The goal of dental professionals is to help you maintain your teeth for as long as possible - hopefully, a lifetime! If a tooth is lost, there are many factors and options to consider regarding tooth replacement. Even if many teeth have been lost, there are several excellent options for restoring your smile's look and functionality. All-on-4 implants are an excellent way to keep dentures stable and secure in your mouth. 

To learn more about ways to avoid the need for future dentures or more information on tooth replacement options, contact Elite Dental & Denture today.