Getting the best tooth replacement for you.

Dentures Candidacy

Denturescan be an excellent option for individuals who are missing teeth, but not everyone is a good candidate. Tooth loss can result from periodontal disease, tooth decay, or injury, and individuals who have lost all of their natural teeth from these causes are often ideal candidates for complete dentures. Several factors can affect a person’s candidacy for dentures, and your dentist will help you find the best denture solution based on your needs and oral health.

Number of Missing Teeth

Dentures can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, but the extent of tooth loss may affect the type of denture recommended. For example, partial dentures are typically used when only a few teeth are missing, while complete dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth.

Jawbone Density

Good candidates for dentures typically have healthy gums and enoughjawbone density and sufficient underlying boneto support the denture. If you have bone loss, you may require other treatments before receiving dentures.

Good Oral Health

Patients should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental checkups with their dentist to ensure the longevity of their dentures. Daily cleaning and proper denture cleaning are essential to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. The American Dental Association recommends using a soft toothbrush and avoiding regular toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive for dentures. Soaking dentures in a disinfectant solution is also recommended to maintain hygiene and prevent microbial growth. Dentures should be removed during sleep to allow the oral tissues to recover. Denture stomatitis, an inflammatory condition that can affect denture wearers, is often caused by poor denture hygiene and wearing dentures overnight. Denture wearers should also avoid sticky or hard foods to prevent damage to their dentures.

Gum disease

Patients with gum disease may require treatment before getting dentures. Our Vicksburg, MS dentist will evaluate the extent of the gum disease to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate.

Expectations and Goals

Patients should haverealistic expectations about what dentures can and cannot do. For example, dentures can improve the appearance of the smile and help with basic functions like chewing and speaking, but they may not feel or function exactly like natural teeth.

Cost

The cost of denturescan also be a factor in determining candidacy, as they can be a significant investment. Affordable dentures are available, and the cost can vary widely depending on the type and materials chosen.

The major costs in dentures typically come from high-quality materials and the customization process. Dentures are generally less expensive than dental implants, which are usually the more expensive option. However, many dental insurance plans do cover a portion of the cost of dentures, making them a more accessible option for some individuals.

Overall Health

If a patient has other health conditionsthat might make dental surgeries or procedures risky, removable dentures might be a safer option.

Implant-supported dentures require a surgical intervention to place implants into the jawbone. Patients with illnesses such as gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or cancer, as well as those who smoke, may not be eligible for this procedure due to increased risks of infection or poor healing.

Denture Alternatives

If dentures aren’t right for you, your dentist may recommend any of these alternatives:

• Dental implants: Implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to provide a stable base for a replacement tooth or teeth. Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth roots by acting as artificial roots anchored in the jawbone, offering stability and support for implant-retained dentures. Dental implants are a popular alternative to dentures as they look and function like natural teeth and can last for years.
• Dental bridges: Bridges are artificial teeth that are anchored in place by neighboring teeth. They’re a good option for patients who are missing one or more teeth in a row but still have some natural teeth remaining. Dental bridges are less invasive than implants but may not last as long.
• Flipper: A flipper is a removable partial denture used as a temporary tooth replacement. It’s usually made of acrylic and is less expensive than other options, but it’s not a long-term solution.