Too Late for Dentures? How a Complete Smile is Still Possible

Tooth loss is a problem millions of people in the United States currently experience, so you’re not alone if you’ve been without a full set of teeth for some time. Dentists often provide helpful solutions to restore smiles, one of which is dentures. Their affordability and proven effectiveness make them a popular option among patients, but can you wear them if you’ve been without teeth for a while? A dentist is here to answer this question and explain why a complete smile can still be within reach.

What Happens After Tooth Loss?

Whether you have lost one tooth or an entire row, bone loss is likely to occur. When teeth are healthy and in place, the roots deliver stimulation to the jawbone so that it remains strong and dense. However, once one or more teeth fall out or are extracted, the bone will shrink (bone resorption).

Replacing any number of missing teeth (aside from third molars or wisdom teeth) is essential to maintaining your facial structure, proper bite alignment, and better oral and overall health.

Can Bone Loss Keep Me from Receiving Dentures?

Not necessarily. Dentures are removable prosthetics that sit on top of your gums. Their placement can be beneficial to your smile, as they help keep existing teeth firmly in place instead of allowing them to drift.

The only problem they cannot address is continued bone loss. This is when your dentist may recommend a bone grafting procedure, which involves placing new bone into the area of the existing jawbone to create a denser foundation for your smile.

Are Implant Dentures a Possibility?

Yes, you can receive implant dentures as long as your dentist deems you are healthy enough to undergo a minor oral procedure. Additionally, if your jawbone lacks sufficient density, bone grafting can also be performed should you choose to move forward with implant dentures. Instead of your new teeth consisting only of their visible crowns, dental implants can restore the roots of your missing teeth so that continued stimulation is provided to your jawbone. Once the implants fuse with the bone after surgery, the custom-made denture can be placed on top to create a complete and functional smile.

There is hope for a new smile thanks to traditional and implant dentures. By taking the appropriate steps to rebuild your jawbone and establish a firm foundation, you can start enjoying the finer things in life once again.

About the Author
Dr. Chitra Naik has more than 25 years of experience in the field of dentistry. After studying at the Government Dental College in Mumbai, India, she moved to the United States to pursue her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. As a skilled dentist who can help patients suffering from tooth loss, she provides multiple tooth replacement solutions, including dentures and dental implants. If you have been living without teeth for some time but are ready to take back your smile, contact us at (810) 235-5422.