Getting Your Bite Back: Why Dentures Aren’t Only for Seniors

It’s understandable that many people associate dentures with older adults. As people age, their teeth experience more wear and tear, and their risks of gum disease increase, making it more likely for them to experience tooth loss and seek to remedy the problem with these restorative appliances. However, dentures can also be an excellent way for younger adults to enjoy complete smiles after losing teeth. Here’s a brief overview of how dentures can help many people enjoy the benefits of a full set of teeth.

Why Would a Younger Person Need Dentures?

There are many reasons why a younger adult may experience tooth loss, including:

• Advanced tooth decay: Untreated dental infections like cavities are caused by poor oral hygiene and will eventually lead to tooth loss.
• Advanced gum disease: Periodontitis is an infection that causes permanent damage such as tooth loss, gum recession, and jawbone erosion.
• Poor nutrition: Excessive sugar consumption leads to the mouth being coated with a sticky residue that feeds harmful oral bacteria. Not getting the right vitamins and minerals can also weaken the bone and muscle structures supporting them.
• Health conditions: Issues like diabetes and juvenile arthritis and some medications can increase the risk of tooth loss.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Many people grind their teeth when under stress or when they sleep, leading to chips, cracks, and fractures that can cause tooth loss.
• Injuries: A blow to the face or an unfortunate fall can break or knock out teeth.

What Is Getting Dentures Like for Younger Adults?

Getting dentures for younger adults is largely the same as it is for older adults. The process begins with a consultation, during which your dentist will evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals and preferences. If you are approved for the treatment, you may have to receive preliminary procedures such as gum disease therapy or tooth extractions before you can be fitted for your dentures.

Based on their findings, your dentist will recommend partial, full, or implant dentures to restore your smile. While partial dentures can replace one or several missing teeth throughout the mouth, full dentures can restore a full arch. Holding a denture in place with dental implants provides additional security and longevity to the appliance, making it easier for it to function like real teeth.

What Benefits Can Dentures Deliver for Younger Adults?

Dentures can provide many great health benefits for younger adults such as:

• Improved confidence: Having a complete smile can make it easier to grin proudly, helping you make excellent first impressions, build connections, earn trust, win friends, and close sales.
• Enhanced chewing ability: Dentures can allow you to enjoy many foods that are difficult to chew after tooth loss.
• Clearer speech: By acting as your missing teeth, dentures can make it easy to form words that would be hard to pronounce without them.
• Incredible comfort: Modern dentures are incredibly comfortable, leading many patients to sometimes forget they are there.

Wearing dentures can boost a younger adult’s quality of life after tooth loss. Consulting with your dentist can help determine if they can be a great treatment for you.

About the Practice

McComb Family Dental offers exemplary oral health services to the community of McComb. Led by Drs. Nancy Dysinger, Kimberli Crates Best, Emily Crates Heintzelman, and Tony Rader, the staff takes pride in providing stellar dental experiences in a friendly and comforting environment. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To learn more about what dentures may be able to do for you, contact the office online or dial (419) 293-2335.