Dentures are often associated with older people since oral health issues like gum disease, enamel erosion, and tooth loss become more common with age, but younger adults can also benefit from these incredible restorative devices. Here’s a brief look at how dentures work, why young people may need them, and how patients are fitted with these appliances.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are customized dental restorations designed to address tooth loss by comfortably fitting over the gums and supporting lifelike artificial teeth. Modern appliances are crafted from high-quality materials that mimic the appearance of the patient’s natural enamel and gum tissue, and this allows them to be virtually indistinguishable from real teeth and so comfortable that people often forget they are wearing them. Dentures can be crafted to replace a few, many, or all of a patient’s teeth based on the patient’s needs.
Can Young People Get Dentures?
While many people associate dentures with older individuals, younger adults can restore their smiles with these amazing devices. Many people lose teeth in early adulthood due to accidents, athletic injuries, or destructive oral infections. Tooth loss can also be related to underlying health conditions such as cancer or diabetes as well as habits like teeth grinding or chewing on non-food items like ice, writing utensils, or paperclips. Dentures may be an excellent way for younger adults to enjoy complete grins after tooth loss.
What Is Getting Dentures Like for Younger People?
Placing dentures in the mouths of younger people is the same as it is for seniors. The process begins with a consultation with a qualified dentist so they can evaluate the patient’s oral health and determine the best way to replace their lost teeth. In some cases, the patient will need preliminary treatments such as gum disease treatments or tooth extractions before they can receive dentures. If the patient is missing several teeth, a partial may be the best option, but those missing complete arches will probably need full dentures.
Tooth loss can be a discouraging problem that leads to serious oral and overall health issues. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best way to achieve a complete smile.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Yarnell earned her dental degree at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis and has a certificate in conscious moderate sedation from Oregon Health Science Center University. She is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Arkansas Dental Association, and CEREC Doctors. Her office in Jonesboro offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dentures. To schedule your consultation for dentures, contact her office online or dial (870) 932-8488.