Missing teeth can leave most people unhappy and even uncomfortable with their smile. Smiling without a mouthful of teeth can be embarrassing for many.
However, multiple options exist for improving your smile and masking those missing teeth. One of the oldest and most popular methods is dentures. Even though dentures aren't a newer form of treatment, the ones available today aren't your grandparent's dentures.
If you are interested in this treatment option, it's essential to understand the pros and cons.
What are Dentures?
Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are designed to look like natural teeth. Dentures can restore both dental appearance and functionality for individuals who are missing some or all of their teeth. Dentures can be:
- Complete: A full mouth of dentures is used when all natural teeth are missing.
- Partial: Used to replace some teeth when the individual isn't missing all their natural teeth.
Benefits of Dentures
With the following benefits and more, it's easy to see why so many people choose dentures to replace their missing teeth.
- Aesthetics: Dentures fit correctly, look cohesive, and can restore entire rows of teeth. Without dentures, the face can sag.
- Versatile: Dentures are a good solution for almost everyone, even if your jaw or teeth aren't in great shape. Other options, like dental implants, require healthy gums and reliable jaw bones.
- Cost Effectiveness: Dentures can be a more cost-effective option as opposed to others like dental implants.
- Minimal maintenance: Dentures are easy to care for and maintain. Rinsing and using denture cleaner are the basic requirements.
Denture Drawbacks
Unfortunately, dentures do have some drawbacks, including the following:
- Frequent replacements: Dentures will eventually wear down and need replacing. If the shape of your mouth changes, you will also require new ones. However, replacing dentures is much easier than replacing a dental implant or a bridge.
- Several appointments are required: Getting dentures involves more than simply walking into your dentist's office and requesting them. You must go through several steps to ensure you have the right fit. Your dentist will make molds of your mouth as well as remove any single teeth or ones that are decayed. The molds help the dentures to fit properly, which is extremely important.
- Removing dentures: Even though being able to remove dentures is a benefit, it can also be a drawback. Over time, they may get loose or make clicking noises which can be embarrassing. It can also cause pain and soreness. In addition, dentures have to cover the palate to fit securely and reliably in your mouth, which can impact how your taste buds work.
Learn More About Dentures at Integrated Dentistry
Are dentures right for you? The best way to find out is to consider the pros and cons and then discuss your case with an experienced dentist. At Integrated Dentistry, we can evaluate your mouth and missing teeth to determine the most ideal options for your situation. But ultimately, the choice is up to you.
To schedule an appointment or to learn more about dentures, contact us at 479-333-1300. For your convenience, you can also request an appointment online.