Tooth loss is the most common yet unpleasant side effect of aging. Seniors who have lost some or most of their teeth have two options to replace their missing teeth: dentures and implants. Most seniors prefer dentures.
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to substitute missing teeth and repair the function and appearance of your smile.
Understanding why and knowing the benefits of dentures can help make the process smoother and improve the appearance of your loved one’s smile. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to dentures for seniors.
Are Dentures Good for Seniors?
Dentures offer an excellent solution for seniors who have lost some or all of their teeth. They restore their smile and ability to eat. Dentures can significantly enhance quality of life by improving speech and allowing seniors to enjoy a variety of foods. Also, dentures help fill the face, giving it a more youthful appearance.
While dentures have numerous benefits, they require regular maintenance and adjustments as the shape of the gums and jawbone can change over time. Getting used to dentures may also take some time, and initial discomfort and difficulty speaking and eating are common.
What are the Types of Dentures?
Dentures are typically more affordable than implants. Moreover, they can be easily customized to each patient’s smile and provide a natural look.
When visiting a dentist for false denture teeth, the dentist will provide any of the below options:
- Full Dentures:
Someone who has lost all their teeth in the upper and lower jaws will require a complete set of false teeth. In such cases, the dentist will prefer full dentures customized to suit the mouth perfectly. These dentures fit the exact oral structure, resulting in a natural look and functioning as replacement artificial teeth.
- Partial Dentures:
As the name suggests, partial dentures are required when some natural teeth are present. Partial dentures fill the gaps caused by missing teeth and are designed to blend with existing teeth. Seniors mainly use removable partial dentures, which can be removed for cleaning.
- Implant-Supported Dentures:
Implant-supported dentures are new in the league and provide excellent stability and longevity. These dentures are connected to implants that are surgically inserted in the jawbone.
Opposed to the dentures mentioned above that rely on suction or glue, an implant-supported denture is permanently fixed to the implant. This also results in greater biting force and is more natural.
What are the Benefits of Dentures?
Dentures for seniors provide several benefits, including:
- Improved Appearance:
Dentures can help restore a natural-looking smile and improve facial appearance by filling the gaps left by missing teeth.
- Better Speech:
Missing teeth can affect the ability to chew and speak. Dentures help improve pronunciation and clarity of speech.
- Increased Comfort:
The denture can be customized. This means these can fit each individual’s mouth, resulting in a comfortable and secure fit.
- Improved Ability to Eat:
Dentures restore the ability to chew and eat properly, improving seniors’ overall health.
- Inexpensive:
Compared to other tooth replacement options, dentures are cost-effective.
What Is the Process of Getting Dentures for Seniors?
The process of getting dentures for seniors involves the following:
- Consultation: The initial step consists of a consultation with a dentist who will assess dental health, review denture options, discuss expectations, and provide a treatment plan.
- Impressions and Fittings: To ensure a perfect fit, precise measurements and molds of the mouth are required. Adjustments may require several follow-up consultations.
- Adjustment Period: Dentures may take some time to get used to. During this period, seniors may experience variations in eating and speaking. The dentist will recommend practicing speaking and eating soft foods to aid the transition.
Takeaway
Dentures offer an excellent solution for seniors who want to restore their confidence and enjoy the foods they love. Various types of dentures are available, including full, partial, and implant-supported options, so seniors can find a solution based on their needs. Moreover, these are much more affordable than other tooth replacement options.
Get Your Custom-Fit Dentures Today!
Our team of highly experienced cosmetic dentists in Osseo is committed to providing exceptional dental services. If you want dentures for your loved ones or yourself, schedule an appointment with us today at Osseo Family Dentistry.
You can also contact us at (763) 425-2626 or visit us at 30 Central Ave, Osseo, MN 55369.