Denture Blog

Should I Wait to Get Dentures?

How does a person know, for sure, when it is time to get dentures? If you are in a situation where you still have most of your teeth, deciding to go ahead with full or partial dentures can feel like an overwhelming choice.

While your Surrey denturist is the best person to speak to about when’s the right time to move forward with full or partial dentures, here are answers to a few common denture questions that might be able to help make your decision a little clearer.

At What Age do People Typically Get Dentures?

There is no specific age where dentures become essential- it depends on your oral situation. Between 55 and 65, we see dentures start to become more common, however, patients much younger than that have also benefitted from getting dentures.

More important than age is the current condition of your teeth and gums and how that is impacting your day-to-day functioning. Here are a few signs that it may be time to talk with your denturist about your options for full or partial dentures in Surrey.

Loose Teeth

Many people begin to experience mild gum recession after age 40, but receding gums is more than just a cosmetic concern for some people. Gum tissue is crucial to keeping your teeth securely in place and without adequate support, teeth can become loose, and eventually, they may even fall out.

Avoiding Certain Foods

If your oral health has progressed to the point where you need to avoid certain foods, it might be time to consider dentures or other forms of restoration like implants and partial dentures in Surrey. While people with dentures still need to be cautious of certain foods, poor oral health should not be dictating your diet. Dentures- particularly implant partial dentures, can help you regain your food freedom.

Periodontal Disease 

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums which in severe cases can lead to jawbone deterioration and tooth loss. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are key to avoiding the worst effects of periodontal disease, however, once the damage has been done, tooth loss or tooth extraction are possible outcomes.

There are a few options for tooth restoration after periodontal disease. Dental implants are the longest-lasting but also most expensive dentures or implant-supported dentures offer a more affordable solution.

How Long Do I have to Wait for Post Extraction Before I Can Wear Dentures?

If you have teeth that need to be removed before getting your new denture, you don’t have to worry about being without teeth for long as most patients can be fitted with a temporary denture the same day their teeth are extracted.

How Long Does It Take to Have a Denture Made?

The denture process can be completed in as little as four appointments. Your first appointment will typically include a brief examination, a collection of medical history, and an explanation of your denture options. Once the decision has been made, the following appointments will be to take impressions of your mouth, verify the fit of the appliance, and finally place your new denture.

The sequence may look slightly different if you require tooth extraction or opt for implant-supported dentures.

Can I Get Implant Dentures If I Already Have Dentures?

It is never too late to get implant-supported dentures if you have adequate supporting bone structure. Your denturist may be able to attach your current denture to the implants thereby saving you the cost of having a new appliance manufactured.