Think that dentures are only for the elderly? Think again! Dentures are the perfect solution for anyone who has suffered tooth loss, decay, or damage. Whether full or partial dentures, this solution can be and has been used on patients of all ages.
Reasons younger people might need dentures
Once our adult teeth have grown, a lot can happen that might leave us needing tooth replacement. One potential problem is tooth loss by impact, if someone gets in a car crash or falls off their bike, for example, and loses one or more teeth. Dental implants can be used if the damage is minimal, but dentures are also a possible solution, especially for more severe damage or cases where multiple teeth are lost.
Issues like tooth decay and gum disease can also be a cause of tooth loss, even at an earlier stage of our lives. If proper care is not taken of the teeth, then tooth decay is a real risk. People who suffer from certain conditions or undergo certain treatments may also be more at risk of developing periodontitis, or gum disease. These risk factors include leukemia, cancer treatments, diabetes, and Crohn’s disease.
Dentures are even needed during childhood for some. There are rare genetic diseases and some nutritional deficiencies that stunt tooth growth in children, leaving them with underdeveloped teeth or gaps where teeth have not grown. Ectodermal dysplasias and amelogenesis imperfecta are examples of these conditions. In these rare cases, dentures can help to restore the smile and confidence of children at a young age.
Dentures for all ages
For patients of all ages and whatever the cause of tooth loss, partial dentures can be fitted to replace some missing teeth. Or, the remaining teeth can be removed and full dentures will then be fitted. Either way, the resulting dentures are made to look as natural as possible, blending in well with remaining teeth or giving the appearance of a full set of natural teeth in the case of full dentures.
You may feel self-conscious about wearing dentures at a younger age, but it is unlikely that anyone will be able to tell. Plus, it may be more common than you think, since it has been found that 69% of adults between the age of 35 and 44 have lost one or more of their permanent teeth.
Do you want to correct your smile? You can come to Teague for affordable dentures around Clemmons, Lewisville, Mocksville, Winston Salem, Advance, and Bermuda Run. Get in touch for more information or to book a consultation.