Your smile can instantly give you fantastic self-esteem and make you want to leave the house. Likewise, an imperfect smile can erode your self-esteem. According to Forbes, around 120 million people nationwide are missing at least one tooth. You may be a candidate for a denture fitting if you’re missing teeth.
Teeth Missing
If you’re only missing one tooth, and your remaining teeth are healthy, you’re not a good candidate for dentures. Dentures are meant to replace most of your upper or lower teeth. Complete dentures replace all your teeth. However, your dentist will work with you to determine the best plan for your missing tooth.
Bone Health
Dentures are created by taking impressions of the bones in your mouth. Certain diseases, like periodontal disease, erode bone faster. Once your teeth are gone, you may not have the healthy bone necessary to be a good candidate for a denture fitting. However, there are other options for you. Working with a professional can help you discover the best treatment plan for your situation.
Gum Health
It would be best if you had healthy gums to wear dentures. Wearing dentures can be challenging or impossible if you experience inflammation and swelling due to gum disease or periodontal disease. Dentists cannot get correct impressions to make dentures if your gums are swollen. The first step in dentures involves controlling gum disease to ensure you can effectively wear dentures.
Oral Health
Your current oral health can also determine whether you’re a good candidate for a denture fitting. If you currently have problems with your gums, like the early stages of gum disease, a dentist will want to treat that beforehand. They’ll also examine remaining teeth to determine if cavities or other issues are present. Oral health issues must be cared for before a denture fitting.
Oral Hygiene
Your dentist will also discuss oral hygiene with you. Wearing dentures requires a commitment to taking care of your dentures and gums. You’ll still need to brush twice daily to ensure your gums remain healthy. You can still get bacteria in your mouth that can cause bad breath. You must remove and clean your dentures nightly and may experience significant issues if you don’t.
We understand that missing teeth can significantly impact your self-esteem. Our professionals will work with you to determine your appropriate treatment plan. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.