More than 36 million Americans have no teeth. Dentists make dentures for 15 percent of those without teeth every year. What are the benefits of wearing artificial teeth? Who is a good candidate for dentures? We’ve got answers to those and other questions below.

Possible Candidates for Dentures

Anyone who has experienced significant tooth loss yet still has healthy jawbones and an ample amount of gum tissue can wear dentures. You do not have to be missing all of your teeth to be a candidate for dentures. Those with a few healthy teeth left can often times have partial dentures fitted for them.

A common misconception is that only senior adults wear false teeth. However, even younger adults can wear them as well. 69% of people who are between the ages of 35-44 have lost at least one permanent tooth in their life. Many of them could benefit from wearing dentures.

Young adults may desire artificial teeth if they have experienced significant tooth loss as a result of illness or injury. You can generally have dentures fitted if all of your permanent teeth have erupted and your jawbone has completely finished growing.

Benefits of Dentures

Artificial teeth offer numerous advantages such as:

  • Making it possible to eat a wider variety of foods
  • Increasing self-esteem
  • Providing support for your facial muscles
  • Improving speech
  • Giving you a reason to smile again

Most dental insurance policies cover up to half the cost of dentures. This means that having a better smile might actually be more affordable than you think.

Different Types of Denturespairs of dentures in a dentist office

If you have no teeth, a dentist will likely fit you with full dentures. These take the place of your regular teeth and sit on top of your gums. Partials are very similar to full dentures and are used to fill in the gaps left by your existing teeth. Both types are removable rather than being secured to your jawbone.

Implanted dentures have dental implants holding them securely in place. Snap-in dentures include anchors on your existing teeth to help hold them in place. Both of these provide greater support for those who worry about their dentures slipping.

Caring for Your Dentures

As with regular teeth, bacteria and food particles can become trapped in your dentures. As such, you should remove and brush your false teeth at least once or twice each day. Place them under running water to remove larger particles, and then brush with a denture brush. Use only denture cleaner, as regular toothpaste is too abrasive for most sets of artificial teeth.

Remove your false teeth before going to bed each night. This will allow your gums to rest so that they do not become irritated. While sleeping, place your artificial teeth in a bowl of lukewarm (not hot) water to help them maintain their shape and keep them from drying out.

Our Dental Services

Here at Lovett Dental Katy, we offer a variety of dental services, including:

We provide a full range of dental services to ensure that every member of your family is covered. Please contact us if you require family, pediatric, or cosmetic dental services.

Contact Us to Learn More

Missing teeth do not have to negatively impact your life. By wearing dentures, you can regain your confidence and zest for life again. Don’t wait any longer to schedule your appointment. Contact Lovett Dental Katy at 832-437-6477, or contact us online and take the first step toward achieving a winning smile.