Who Is a Good Candidate for Dentures?

Dentures are a reliable solution for individuals experiencing tooth loss. They help restore function, support facial structure, and improve overall oral health. 

Dentures, available in full or partial designs, are an alternative for those who may not be suited to other tooth replacement options.

Benefits of Dentures

Dentures offer several benefits beyond restoring a smile:

• Improve chewing ability and digestion.
• Enhance speech by filling gaps left by missing teeth.
• Support facial muscles, reducing sagging and premature ageing.
• Boost self-confidence by providing a natural-looking smile.
• Allow for customisation to match natural tooth shape and colour.
• Provide a non-invasive alternative to permanent options.

Signs You May Need Dentures

A good candidate for dentures typically experiences one or more of the following:

Signs	Explanation
Multiple missing teeth	Missing several teeth affects chewing and speech, making dentures a suitable solution.
Severe tooth decay	If multiple teeth are extensively damaged and cannot be restored, dentures may be recommended.
Advanced gum disease	Significant gum recession and tooth loss due to gum disease may require dentures.
Difficulty chewing or speaking	If eating or speaking is impaired due to missing teeth, dentures can improve functionality.
Loose or shifting teeth	When teeth become loose due to bone loss, they may need to be extracted and replaced with dentures.
Sunken facial appearance	Missing teeth can cause facial muscles to sag, and dentures help maintain facial structure.

Who May Not Be a Good Candidate?

Some individuals may not be ideal candidates for dentures without additional dental care. These include:

• Those with severe jawbone deterioration, as dentures rely on bone support.
• Individuals unable to maintain proper oral hygiene.
• People with severe gag reflexes that make wearing dentures difficult.
• Patients looking for a fixed option instead of removable appliances.

In such cases, a dentist at Butler Dental can evaluate alternative solutions tailored to the individual’s needs.

Types of Dentures

Depending on oral health needs, different types of dentures are available:

Type	Description
Full Dentures	Replace all upper or lower teeth and rest on the gums.
Partial Dentures	Used when some natural teeth remain, filling gaps while preserving existing teeth.
Immediate Dentures	Placed immediately after tooth extraction, allowing instant restoration.
Overdentures	Secured over existing tooth roots or dental implants for added stability.

What to Expect When Getting Dentures

Getting dentures involves several steps:

1. Consultation – A dentist at Butler Dental will assess oral health and recommend suitable options.
2. Impressions – Moulds are taken to create custom-fitted dentures.
3. Try-in Stage – A temporary version is tested for fit and comfort.
4. Final Fit – The permanent dentures are adjusted for optimal function.
5. Follow-up Appointments – Adjustments ensure comfort and proper alignment.

Adjusting to Dentures

It takes time to adapt to wearing dentures. Patients may experience mild discomfort, increased saliva production, or difficulty speaking at first. Common adjustments include:

• Practising speech exercises to regain natural speaking ability.
• Eating softer foods initially before transitioning to harder textures.
• Ensuring regular dental visits to adjust fit and improve comfort.

Caring for Dentures

Proper care extends the lifespan of dentures and maintains oral health:

• Clean dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner.
• Store them in water or a denture solution when not in use.
• Rinse after meals to remove food debris.
• Visit Butler Dental regularly for adjustments and oral health checks.

Common Myths About Dentures

There are many misconceptions surrounding dentures. Here are some common myths and the truth behind them:

Myth	Reality
Dentures last forever	While durable, dentures need replacement or adjustments over time.
Dentures make eating difficult	While there is an adjustment period, most people adapt and eat comfortably.
Dentures always look unnatural	Modern dentures are designed to mimic natural teeth closely.
Only older adults need dentures	People of all ages can require dentures due to disease or injury.

Key Takeaways

Dentures are an effective option for individuals experiencing tooth loss due to decay, gum disease, or injury. While they may not be suitable for everyone, a professional evaluation ensures the right approach for each patient. 

If you are considering dentures in Butler, WA, Butler Dental can assess your suitability and provide expert guidance for your oral health needs. A dentist in Butler can help.