When Do You Need Dentures?
Signs You Might Need Dentures
The first step in understanding when you might need dentures is recognising the signs. Like many health issues, catching these early can make a significant difference in your treatment options and outcomes.
One of the most common signs is frequent toothaches. Persistent pain might indicate that decay has reached the nerve in your tooth, and it may be too late to save the tooth. If you’re experiencing toothaches, it’s vital to consult a dentist promptly.
Another sign is if your gums are swollen, tender, or bleeding. These are symptoms of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Again, early intervention is key.
Finally, difficulty eating hard or chewy foods can indicate that your teeth are weakening. If you’re avoiding certain foods because they’re too painful or difficult to chew, it might be time to consider dentures.
Benefits of Dentures
Despite the initial apprehension you might feel, there are numerous benefits to having dentures. One of the most significant is the improvement in your ability to chew food. Proper chewing is essential for digestion, and they can help restore this ability if you’ve lost teeth.
They also provide support for your facial muscles, preventing them from sagging. This can greatly improve your appearance, helping you look younger and boosting your self-confidence.
Finally, dentures can improve your speech if it has been affected by missing teeth. Pronouncing certain words can be challenging without all your teeth, but they can help restore your speech to its former clarity.
The Process at Woodcroft Dental & Implant Clinic
At Woodcroft Dental & Implant Clinic in Midhurst, West Sussex, we’re committed to providing you with high-quality, personalised care. The process of getting dentures begins with a thorough examination to assess your oral health and determine the best course of action.
Next, we’ll take impressions of your mouth, which will be used to create your custom dentures. This ensures that they fit perfectly and feel comfortable.
Once they are ready, you’ll return to our West Sussex clinic for fitting. We’ll make sure they fit properly and make any necessary adjustments. We’ll also provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your new dentures.
Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your dentures is essential to ensuring they last as long as possible. Here are some tips for proper care and maintenance.
- Clean them daily. Just like natural teeth, dentures can accumulate plaque and tartar, which can lead to bad breath and gum disease. Use a soft toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner to gently scrub all surfaces.
- Handle them with care. They can be delicate and may break if dropped. When you’re not wearing them, store them in a safe place, ideally in a glass of water or denture cleaning solution to keep them moist.
- Continue to visit your dentist regularly. Even with dentures, it’s important to have regular check-ups to ensure your mouth is healthy.
Addressing Common Concerns About Dentures
It’s normal to have concerns about getting dentures. Here are some common ones we hear at Woodcroft Dental & Implant Clinic, and our responses.
- One concern is about how they will affect the taste of food. While it may take some time to adjust, most patients find that they can enjoy their favourite foods just as much as before.
- Another common concern is that they will slip or fall out. With a proper fit and a bit of practice, this is unlikely to happen. We’ll provide tips on how to keep your dentures secure.
- Finally, many people worry about how they will look. Today’s are more natural-looking than ever before. We strive to create dentures that look like your natural teeth, so you can smile with confidence.
If you think you might need dentures, or if you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Get in touch today At Woodcroft Dental & Implant Clinic in Midhurst in West Sussex, we’re here to help you maintain your oral health and your smile!