How to Get a Great Smile

Posted on: 24 May 2023

When you need to replace missing teeth, dentures are probably amongst the first treatment options that come to mind. While they're certainly an effective long-term solution for many, they're not suitable for everyone. Understanding more about the pros and cons can help you decide whether they're right for you.

Denture Pros

Dentures come with lots of pros, including:

• Restoring the functionality of your teeth. By replacing the teeth that are missing, they make it easier for you to bite, chew and form words. The right fit can help you achieve the same speech you enjoyed when you had all your teeth.
• Denture fittings also come with aesthetic perks. Your dentist will ensure they look as close to your natural teeth as possible. Because of this, you may look as though your teeth were never missing.
• It's a non-invasive approach that doesn't require surgery. Alternatives such as veneers and implants may require surgical alterations that are more permanent.
• You can reverse the treatment if you need to. Should you feel as though you're happy to live without a replacement or you no longer want the responsibility that comes with caring for your fittings, you can choose to take them out. Their reversible nature also means you can opt for an alternative treatment in the future.

Denture Cons

Like any form of dental treatment, dentures come with cons that you may need to be aware of. Their cons don't always mean you should forgo the treatment, you should just remain aware of them for your future comfort levels.

• You'll undergo an adjustment period as you adapt to having the fittings in your mouth. Your adjustment period may include getting used to a changed dental care routine and experiencing more saliva than normal.
• Dentures require ongoing maintenance and care. While that maintenance and care don't require significant effort, you must remain consistent for your dentures to stay hygienic.
• Some new denture users find they experience discomfort and soreness. That discomfort and soreness should go away as the soft tissues in your mouth adapt to the new fittings. Your dentist can also provide topical and oral painkillers to make it less pronounced.
• Over time, long-term denture use might also result in bone loss because of the lack of natural teeth roots. However, this is something your dentist will consider before fitting them. They'll do what they can to prevent bone loss from happening.

Overall, dentures are an excellent choice if you want a minimally invasive solution that is reversible. They also look natural. Although they come with mild discomfort at the start, your dentist can help with offsetting it. For more information about getting dentures, reach out to a local dental clinic.