Not only is losing a mouth full of teeth an uncomfortable ordeal, but it can prevent you from eating healthy foods, enjoying life to the fullest, and smiling confidently. With advancements made in the dental industry, there are now a variety of teeth replacement options, including dental bridges, dentures, and implant-supported restorations. How do you know which one is right for you? Although traditional dentures have been around the longest and do provide an affordable option to repairing your smile, they are not always the best solution.
Outlined below are the five fails of traditional dentures to help provide information on why another tooth replacement option may be better suited for you. If you have recently experienced extensive tooth loss, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Philadelphia, PA dentist Dr. Tau to review the teeth replacement options available. You can also call (215) 584-4452.
Dentures Can Hurt
Because dentures rest directly on your gums, they have a tendency to rub against the soft and hard tissues of your mouth. This can cause mouth sores, discomfort, and difficulty eating. Over time, as the dentures continue to rub, bone degeneration is inevitable. This bone loss condition causes the hard tissues within the jawbone to breakdown and be resorbed by the body. Bone degeneration can lead to chronic jaw pain and deformity.
Dentures Need Relining
When first designed, the gum-colored base of your denture will fit snuggly against your gums. However, as the bone tissue within your jawbone continues to breakdown, it can cause the base of your denture to fit uncomfortably. When this occurs, your dentist will recommend a soft or hard relining to add depth and cushion. Although beneficial for improving the fit of your denture, this will need to take place every year and can become costly.
Dentures Can Slip and Wobble
Dentures can slip and wobble even when designed from the most precise impressions by the best lab technicians. Patients with traditional dentures often find that they can slip out of place or create an awkward clicking sound when eating or talking. Because they are only held in place with suction, gravity, and an adhesive, there is nothing permanent holding your denture in place other than keeping your teeth closed, which is virtually impossible when going about your day.
Dentures Can Fall Out
In worst-case scenarios, dentures can completely fall out, especially if biting down on something hard. Even if it’s never happened to you, just knowing that it’s possible can cause anxiety, especially when out in public.
Dentures May Break if Dropped
Each night your denture will need to be removed for cleaning, and to give your jawbone a break while you’re sleeping. If you’re tired when removing your denture, or simply just not paying close enough attention, just one misstep of placing the denture too close to the edge of the counter could put your denture in danger. Although dentures are made from durable materials, the materials used are not hard enough to withstand a drop. When dentures are dropped, there is a possibility of them being broken, or at the very least damaged.
Make an Appointment
For more information on choosing the best tooth replacement option for you, schedule a consultation with Philadelphia, PA dentist Dr. Tau today. You can contact us online or by calling (215) 584-4452.