Many people experience changes in their oral health as they grow older. This is especially true when there are existing dental care issues, such as advancing gum disease or untreated decay. When tooth loss occurs, dentures are highly beneficial. Here’s an overview of who benefits from these oral appliances.

How to Know If Dentures Might Benefit You

1. Advanced Decay

Tooth decay is best treated when caught early. Early detection means treatments like fillings or root canals may be sufficient to remove bacteria.

However, if decay has eaten away at most of the tooth and weakened the root, extraction is the recommended treatment. Advanced decay is often accompanied by frequent tooth pain, persistent bad breath, and facial swelling. After extraction, partial dentures replace the teeth in the area.

2. Missing Teeth

While dental implants are beneficial for people missing one or two teeth, they may become costly for patients with several gaps.

In this case, partial dentures are more cost-effective solutions, as they sit around natural teeth. If tooth loss is extensive, full dentures can completely restore your smile and dental function. 

3. Advanced Gum Disease 

In its earliest stages, the effects of gum disease (which include swollen gums, bleeding, and redness) can be reversed. Once the condition progresses to periodontitis, it breaks down the underlying bone tissue and leads to tooth loss.

If advanced gum disease has weakened your jawbone, there might not be enough tissue to support the titanium rods required for dental implants. Dentures are potential solutions.

If you’re searching for ways to improve your smile, turn to Family Dental Center. Their dentists have been caring for the southern Ohio area since 1977. They provide many options, including dentures and dental implants. Learn more about these treatments online, or call (740) 773-4066 to schedule an appointment.