Times have certainly changed since President George Washington wore his infamous dentures. Who would have thought that this gesture by the first president of the United States would go on to lay the foundation for dental health for seniors.
Of course, the types of dentures have varied over the years but the concept has remained the same: provide seniors with a picture perfect smile even in their golden years. Although many more seniors are able to keep their real teeth well into their senior years due to advancements in dental care, there are some that will still need this option.
According to the Center for Disease Control, “more than 1 in 10 adults aged 65–74 years had lost all their teeth and nearly 1 in 5 adults aged 75 years or older had lost all their teeth.” Will you need dentures?
Here are some telltale signs that you may be one of the seniors who will need dentures as you age.
Why You May Need Dentures
Unfortunately, all of us are subject to extreme changes with our dental health as we age. No matter your socio-economic status, various factors could lead to tooth loss as you age, including gum disease, poor hygiene, and health issues.
Of course, seniors with better access to healthcare as they age will have far more options than their counterparts. However, the aging population will all have to face issues of tooth loss and how to address the issue.
You may need dentures as you age primarily due to the loss of several teeth. The number one reason you may lose several teeth at a time is due to advance stages of periodontal disease. This is the number one cause of tooth loss.
Untreated infections for years can destroy the gums and bones keeping your tooth in place, resulting in them becoming loose and falling out. Massive amounts of cavities over several teeth may also lead to tooth loss. Although rare, severe trauma from falls or accidents could also cause you to lose several teeth, resulting in needing dentures.
Can You Avoid Dentures?
It’s hard to imagine that there could ever come a day when you may not have teeth to chew food, speak clearly, or provide facial support. However, this could become a reality much sooner than you think.
Unlike years ago, you don’t have to look forward to your senior years with a pair of dentures sitting on your night stand. There are some things you can do right now to avoid dentures as you age.
Dental Tips for Now that Help Later
One important thing you can do right now to avoid dentures in the future is to develop a solid dental hygiene routine. This routine could consist of brushing 2 – 3 times a day and flossing after meals.
One more important thing you should do is to prioritize dental visits. Instead of only making the dentist a priority when pain endures, stick to a checkup every six months to ensure that your teeth are as healthy as can be.
If you smoke, try to avoid further damage to your gums by quitting. Another thing to keep an eye on is the type of medications you take. If you take medications that cause dry mouth, this could speed up the potential for tooth loss. Your doctor or dentist may be able to prescribe artificial saliva products to help prevent dry mouth.
Alternatives to Dentures
If you don’t see yourself embracing the dentures your grandparents wore, there are alternatives. If you don’t want to have a full set of dentures and instead want something that feels more natural, you can opt to get dental implants or dental bridges.
Implants are a way of inserting false teeth into a space in your gums by surgically inserting them into the jawbone. Dental bridges is a way to link false and real teeth, creating a bridge. While both methods are effective alternatives to dentures, implants will be the most long-lasting option.
Unfortunately, this option is much more expensive initially and can have a much longer recovery time, upwards of several months. Both are great alternatives to dentures.
Denture Options and Alternatives in Commerce Township
Wondering if dentures are right for you—or if an alternative may be a better fit? Dr. Sedki will walk you through your options and help you choose a solution that matches your goals, comfort, and budget.
At Sedki Dentistry in Commerce Township, you’ll find excellent dental care and affordable denture solutions in a warm, welcoming office where your questions are answered with care. Dr. Sedki designs dentures for the best possible comfort, look, and feel – so you can smile confidently and enjoy everyday life.
Call today to schedule a free denture consultation.