When you think of dentures you may immediately picture an older person, but did you know that these dental restorations can be helpful for younger patients as well? Our North Delta dentists talk about why dentures may be needed and what the different options are.
Dentures: What are they used for?
Dentures are a custom-made tooth replacement option that is meant to replicate the patient's natural teeth and restore their smile. These artificial teeth can be used to replace teeth that have been removed, fallen out or knocked out.
Why might dentures work for your situation?
Typically our first thought goes to older people needing dentures but sometimes they can be useful for those in a lower age bracket. Many young people have dental concerns where dentures could help. Perhaps you previously thought of them as only being suitable for certain types of patients or seniors. Your dentist will work with you to determine the treatment options that may work best for your particular dental needs.
Dentures may never be necessary if you visit your dentist on a regular basis for checkups and practice good oral hygiene at home. That said, if you are already dealing with many dental issues or you end up with extensive complications in the future, then dentures may be waiting for you down the road.
What are the different types of dentures?
If you are missing any teeth then it is imperative to your oral health to have some form of tooth replacement to help prevent bone loss or other serious conditions. If you are missing one or more teeth, ask your dentist whether full or partial dentures are right for you.
Partial Dentures
Typically constructed from a combination of metal and acrylic, partial dentures can be used to replace one or a few missing teeth.
Full Dentures
For patients that are missing all of their teeth, full dentures can help restore their complete smile. Depending on your needs, these can be combined with implants to provide a more secure fit for your teeth.
How can I care properly for my dentures?
Dentures are susceptible to plaque and tartar just as natural teeth are. If left untreated or if a proper oral hygiene routine isn't followed then it can result in stains, smelly breath and serious oral health concerns. Cleaning your dentures daily will help prevent plaque from spreading from your dentures to your natural teeth and gums.