Dentures have been used for generations to replace missing teeth; however, they are often associated with the elderly. Although there isn’t any age requirement for dentures, studies have found that people over 40 are most likely to get them. Younger adults can be too embarrassed to visit their dentist for dentures because of the social stigma. Despite people in their 20s and 30s already having missing teeth, only 53% of those with tooth loss got their first pair of dentures before the age of 44. Age is just a number when it comes to treating tooth loss. Here’s why it’s never too early to invest in a complete smile.
Reasons to Replace Your Missing Teeth
Every tooth is important for a beautiful smile, but each one is also crucial for your oral health and quality of life. Losing even a single tooth can affect your ability to eat certain foods. As a result, you might eliminate them from your diet, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can compromise your health.
Tooth loss can also affect your ability to speak clearly and can have a significant influence on your self-esteem. With each tooth you lose, your jawbone will shrink, causing your facial structure to change shape. This can lead to wrinkles, sagging skin, and a sunken appearance.
As your jaw continues to deteriorate as time passes, you’ll have an added risk of preventable dental issues, like cavities, gum disease, and additional tooth loss, which can be costly to treat.
Options to Treat Tooth Loss
There are more options than ever before to fill the gaps in your smile. Depending on how many teeth you are missing and your preferences, you might be a candidate for:
- Partials: Prosthetic teeth are set in a gum-colored base that has a metal framework. It will clip or clasp onto your remaining teeth to hold them in place.
- Full Denture: An acrylic base is made from an impression of your mouth, which will hold custom-made prosthetic teeth. It will rest on top of your gum tissue and rely on suction to stay in place.
- Implant Denture: As an alternative to a traditional denture, 4 to 10 dental implants can anchor your new teeth to your jawbone. This replaces both the roots and the crowns, making it the only solution to stop bone loss caused by missing teeth.
Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or 40s, it’s never too soon to invest in dentures. Your dentist can turn back the clock to restore a beautiful, functional smile you’ll be proud to show off.
About Dr. Nabeel Ahmed
Dr. Ahmed earned his dental degree at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry and has regularly pursued continuing education in advanced specialties, like veneers, sedation, and restorative dentistry. If you’re ready to replace your lost teeth, request an appointment through our website or call (647) 492-8791.