For most people, dentures are synonymous with old age. But dentures can be required at different ages. While growing older is a popular reason, there are other aspects that cause tooth loss. Visiting a children’s dentist in Houston early on can help prevent dental problems that lead to dentures later in life.
The Average Age for Dentures
Age 40 and 70 appears to be the common range where most people begin getting dentures. With each passing year, the loss of teeth makes dentures more and more essential. Research suggests that 19% of adults aged 65 and older are completely edentulous. Nonetheless, dentures are not solely for elderly people as the younger generation suffers from less dental health too.
Someone’s dental health has a great impact on their chances of getting dentures. Factors like tooth and gum infections and injuries contribute to the loss of teeth at a young age. The chances of getting dentures vary based on an individual’s lifestyle, genetics, and level of dental hygiene.
Why Do People Need Dentures?
There are many reasons why people are in need of dentures, such as:
- Gum disease is the most common reason people lose their teeth. The advanced stages of gum disease, or periodontal disease, makes the gums and jawbone weak, thus loosening the teeth over time.
- Severe tooth decay applies to cavities that are left untreated for prolonged periods of time, creating the need to have the tooth extracted.
- Accidents and injuries can include sports injuries, auto accidents or falling, all of which can cause a person to lose a tooth or multiple.
- Genetic conditions might refer to a person being born with weak enamel or any other defect that increases the likelihood of losing a tooth.
- Poor oral hygiene can include skipping regular dental checkups or brushing and flossing the teeth. This neglect over time leads to the rapid advancement of decay and gum disease.
Hygienic issues aside, losing teeth can make mundane actions like eating and speaking a hard feat to accomplish. This is where dentures come in, as they help in regaining lost functionality while also greatly improving the quality of life.
Younger People and Dentures
Most older adults tend to be the most dependent on dentures, but younger individuals can become dependent on them as well. Young adults in their 30s and 40s might be suffering from extensive dental problems that require them to have full or partial dentures. Neglecting oral hygiene, smoking, eating too much sugar, or even some health issues can bring about early tooth loss.
Nowadays, younger individuals that go for dentures tend to favor implant-supported dentures the most. This is due to the fact that they proffer better stabilization and reduce the chances jawbone deterioration, which may occur from traditional dentures, is greatly reduced.
Types of Dentures
Different types of dentures are available and each is suited to specific needs of an individual:
Complete Dentures
These restoratives replace the entirety of the missing teeth in any of the upper or lower jaw.
Partial Dentures
These dentures replace multiple missing teeth while allowing for natural teeth to remain.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Provides dentures that are firmly retained by means of dental implants.
Immediate Dentures
This type of dentures is put on immediately after a tooth is removed without waiting for the permanent dentures
Based on the patient’s condition, a children’s dentist Houston will propose the best type. Each option has its benefits and disadvantages based on comfort, finances and long term requirements, which can vary from person to person.
Dentures and Children’s Dental Health
Even though dentures are mostly used by adults, children’s oral health is very important for long-term oral care. Serious tooth issues later in life can be avoided with early attention from a Houston children’s dentist.
A pediatric dentist with a dental practice trains children and parents on maintaining proper dental hygiene to keep the baby teeth healthy. Taking preventative measures like applying sealants, offering fluoride, and regular visits greatly reduces the chances of cavities and gum disease. Maintaining the baby teeth in a healthy state fosters better speech development and directs adult teeth to the optimal position for growth.
Signs You May Need Dentures
Keep an eye out for these warning indicators:
- Persistent toothache
- Moving or loose teeth
- Eating or chewing some meals with difficulty
- Gums that are bleeding, swollen, or retreating
- Recurring abscesses or infections
More serious dental problems may result from ignoring these symptoms. Longer preservation of natural teeth is achieved by seeking early intervention.
Getting Dentures: What to Expect
The process of getting dentures includes:
Dental Examination
Evaluating teeth and mouth for morbidities. Checking if dentures are required.
Tooth Extractions (if needed)
Before dentures are fitted, damaged teeth may be extracted.
Moulding and Fitting
Custom dentures are made using oral impressions.
Comfort Adjustments
After obtaining dentures, adjustments are made to ensure that they fit properly.
At first, it makes wearing the dentures feel odd as you have to learn how to speak and eat with them. With some practice, most will find that their functionality and self-esteem improves quite a lot.
Caring for Dentures
Maintaining oral health and extending the life of dentures are possible with proper care:
- Every day, use a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner to clean your dentures.
- Take out your dentures at night to give your gums a chance to relax.
- When not in use, keep dentures in water or a denture solution.
- See the dentist on a regular basis for examinations and adjustments.
- Ordinary toothpaste can scratch dentures, so stay away from using it.
Dentures that are properly cared for continue to be comfortable and last longer. Infections, pain, and foul breath can result from not cleaning them.
Best Age to Get Dentures
People over the age of 40 tend to get dentures more frequently, although younger people may need them too. Regardless of ageing, dental disease, or even injury, dentures can help restore confidence and even function. Restorative dentistry is a preventative care type which includes visits to a children’s dentist in Houston to help families avoid early tooth loss.
Understanding the need for dentures, recognizing the signs, and maintaining good oral health are crucial. If you or a loved one are experiencing dental issues, consult a dentist to explore treatment options. Taking care of your teeth today ensures a healthier smile for the future.
