When you first think of dentures, you may think of your elderly grandma or grandpa. Dentures have been categorized as something only the elderly need. This is not always the truth. According to Colgate, upwards of 69 percent of adults ranging from ages 35 to 44 have lost one or more permanent teeth. In addition, 26 percent of adults aged 74 are missing all of them. So it is not unusual for patients to range in ages as young as 30 and older to have dentures. This is what dentures are, and how you can tell if you need them!
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are a dental enhancement tool for missing or damaged teeth. A denture is made from acrylic plastic, porcelain, or metal, that replaces the missing or damaged tooth. This installment restores the natural look of a smile, so no one knows what is missing. Dentures are often used to correct, cover, and restore the natural look of your teeth. Some people worry that dentures will look obvious and people will notice them. Technology today is so advanced that denture design is always evolving. Dentures today are made so no one will know a difference. Your smile will look exactly the same as anyone else.
Do I Need Them?
The purpose of dentures is to enhance your smile if you have missing or extremely damaged teeth. There are certain things to look for when considering dentures. If any of these symptoms occur, talk with your dentist about your treatment options.
- You do not visit the dentist every six months
- Swollen, painful, tender, or bleeding gums
- Difficulty chewing
- Loose permanent teeth
- Shifting and widening of gaps
- Missing teeth
- Toothache
- Self-conscious about your smile
The purpose of visiting the dentist every six months is so they know what is happening with your teeth. If you avoid the dentist and experiencing discomfort in your mouth, you need to make an appointment. Dentures are a common solution for missing, shifting, or widening gaps between teeth. They also help patients chew food better and without pain. If you experience any of the symptoms above, check-in with your dentist.
If you are looking for more information on dentures, check out Westmoreland Dental Group. At Westmoreland, we provide excellent and individualized treatments to meet your needs. We provide a variety of services, including but not limited to, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dentures. Schedule an appointment with our doctor here or call us at (423) 282-2844 today!