Are Dentures Possible If I’ve Been Missing Teeth for a Long Time?

Having missing teeth for a long time does not automatically prevent you from getting dentures. In fact, dentures can be an effective way to restore your smile and improve chewing and speaking after extensive tooth loss! But you should also take into consideration that some preparation may be required before getting them.

Long-Term Tooth Loss Can Change Your Mouth

When teeth are missing, the jawbone no longer receives stimulation from tooth roots. Over time, the bone can gradually shrink. The gums and underlying tissues may also change shape, which can affect how a denture fits.

These changes don’t necessarily mean dentures aren’t possible. Instead, your dentist may need to take your current oral anatomy into account when designing and fitting your dentures.

You May Need Some Fixing Up First

Before receiving dentures, your dentist will examine your gums, jawbone, and remaining teeth. If you still have natural teeth that are severely damaged or unhealthy, they may need to be extracted before a complete denture can be made.

Your dentist may also recommend treating gum disease or other oral health problems first. Addressing these concerns can create a healthier foundation for your new dentures and help improve your comfort.

In some cases, significant changes in the jawbone may make conventional dentures more challenging to fit securely. Your dentist can discuss available options based on your individual anatomy.

You Have Options

Traditional full dentures aren’t the only possibility for replacing missing teeth. Depending on your circumstances, you may be a candidate for partial dentures if you still have some healthy natural teeth.

Implant-supported dentures are another option for some patients. Secured using dental implants placed in the jawbone, this restoration provides greater stability than traditional removable dentures. However, implant treatment requires sufficient bone and good overall oral health, and some patients may need additional procedures before implants can be placed.

A bridge is another alternative to explore if you’re missing one or more consecutive teeth in a row.

Dentures Can Still Make a Difference

Even if you’ve lived with missing teeth for years, restoring your smile can improve everyday activities such as eating and speaking. Modern dentures are also designed to look more natural than older generations of artificial teeth. These aren’t your grandma’s prosthesis!

There is generally no expiration date on exploring dentures just because you’ve had missing teeth for a long time. Your mouth may have changed, but a dentist can evaluate those changes and determine which tooth-replacement options are appropriate.

About the Practice

A New Smile in Pacoima offers long-lasting, lifelike full and partial dentures to replace your missing teeth. If you’re interested in a more permanent solution, our talented team can place and restore dental implants in-house, no referral necessary! If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, call (818) 897-5771 or visit our website.