Who Can Get Dentures?

Assessing Your Eligibility for Dentures

Dentures are a popular solution for those who have lost teeth. However, before getting dentures, our Kennett Square dentist will help determine whether they’re the right option for you. The decision to get dentures is a personal one that requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances.

To schedule your appointment at Kennett Center for Advanced Dentistry, contact our dental office today by calling 610-444-6311.

Dentures Candidacy

Dentures can be an excellent option for dental patients who are missing teeth, but not everyone is a good candidate. Several factors can affect a person’s candidacy for dentures.

Number of Missing Teeth

Dentures can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, but the extent of tooth loss may affect the type of denture recommended. For example, partial dentures are typically used when only a few teeth are missing, while full dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Partial dentures use clasps to anchor onto the remaining teeth, providing stability and preventing other natural teeth from shifting.

Jawbone Density

Good candidates for dentures typically have healthy gums and enough bone structure to support the denture. If you have bone loss, you may require other treatments before receiving dentures.

Good Oral Health

Patients should be committed to maintaining healthy gum tissue and good oral hygiene practices by attending regular dental checkups with their dentist to ensure the longevity of their dentures.

Gum Disease

Patients with gum disease and significant tooth loss may require treatment before getting dentures. Our Kennett Square dentist will evaluate the extent of the gum disease to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate.

Expectations and Goals

Patients should have realistic expectations about what dentures can and cannot do. For example, dentures can replace missing teeth, improve the appearance of the smile, and help with basic functions like chewing and speaking, but they may not feel or function exactly like natural teeth.

Cost

Cost can also be a factor in determining candidacy for dentures, as they can be a significant investment. However, many dental insurance plans do cover a portion of the cost of dentures, making them a more accessible option for some individuals.

Overall Health

If a patient has other health conditions that might make dental surgeries or procedures risky, removable dentures might be a safer option.

Denture Alternatives

If dentures aren’t right for you, your dentist may recommend any of these alternatives:

• Dental implants: Implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to provide a stable base for a replacement tooth or teeth. Dental implants are a popular alternative to dentures as they look and function like natural teeth and can last for years. Implant-supported dentures are another alternative, offering stability and durability by being anchored to the jawbone.
• Dental bridges: Bridges are artificial teeth that are anchored in place by neighboring natural teeth. They’re a good option for patients who are missing one or more teeth in a row but still have some natural teeth remaining. Dental bridges are less invasive than implants but may not last as long.
• Flipper: A flipper is a removable partial denture used as a temporary tooth replacement. It’s usually made of acrylic and is less expensive than other options, but it’s not a long-term solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is not a good candidate for dentures?

Individuals with well-preserved natural teeth, healthy gums, and sufficient jawbone support might not be ideal candidates for traditional dentures. Additionally, those seeking a more stable and permanent solution might consider alternatives like dental implants.

What happens if you don’t have enough bone for dentures?

If there’s insufficient jawbone for dentures, it can lead to poor fit, discomfort, and instability. Dental implants might be considered, or bone grafting to enhance bone volume for proper denture support. Your dentist can recommend suitable options based on your situation.

Discover if You Qualify for Dentures With Dr. Peter Patellis

With the right care and attention, dentures can provide a comfortable and effective solution for restoring one’s ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. If you’re interested in finding out if you qualify for dentures, schedule an appointment with Dr. Peter Patellis by giving our Kennett Square dental office a call at 610-444-6311.