Are you wondering about your options following tooth loss? Millions of people are enjoying vibrant, natural-looking smiles using dentures. While modern dentures have been around for decades, new technology has allowed dentists to offer more comfortable and convenient dentures. People choose to get dentures to conceal the fact that they’re missing teeth. However, dentures provide many benefits beyond just a cosmetic fix after tooth loss. Here’s a look at three critical reasons you should get dentures early.
1. Dentures Can Help With Chewing and Digestion
Tooth loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue that can impact your self-confidence while smiling, talking, or eating. It can affect your digestive health. Chewing food following tooth loss can be difficult without dentures. As a result, you may swallow your food without thoroughly chewing it first. You’re now at risk for digestive problems because you’re skipping an essential step in the digestive process when enzymes in the mouth begin to break down food. This can lead to indigestion, stomach pain, and gastrointestinal issues.
Additionally, you may be at risk for nutritional deficiencies if you begin to avoid certain foods because they’re too difficult to chew. For example, you may stop eating fresh fruits, crisp vegetables, or lean meats because you can’t chew them. One study found that tooth loss in older American adults is associated with lower diet quality and reduced intake of most nutrients. The data was enough for researchers involved in the study to conclude that this may partly explain the higher risk of chronic diseases in this population. Of course, not being able to chew your food properly can also simply rob you of the enjoyment of savoring your food while eating!
2. Dentures Can Improve Your Speech
Over time, tooth loss can impair your ability to speak. That’s because changes in our mouths following tooth loss can affect tongue positioning. Missing teeth can make pronouncing words that begin and end with “S” sounds difficult. As a result, many people develop lisps or speak with mumbles when they are missing front teeth. Constantly being misunderstood by others can be frustrating! Dentures can help you to continue talking with clarity.
3. Dentures Can Prevent Facial Sagging
The teeth and jaw act like scaffolding for our facial structure. Unfortunately, a loss of natural tooth roots can lead to sagging in the jawbone. Over time, the jawbone will shrink to the point of robbing the cheeks and chin of their definition. Dentures can help to prevent sagging that can change our facial structure and cause us to look older over time. People who wear dentures can benefit from a lifting effect. Suppose sagging is a significant concern because of substantial tooth loss. In that case, you should also consider speaking with your dentist or local dental implant provider about grafting that can help to build up the bone in your jaw to support permanent dentures called implant-supported dentures.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. While the article highlights the benefits of dentures, consulting with a qualified dentist or healthcare professional is essential to determine the best course of action for your individual dental needs. Each person’s dental health and treatment options are unique, and a professional evaluation is essential before making any decisions regarding dentures or other dental procedures.
Published by: Holy Minoza
