Our bodies change as we get older, and this includes our teeth and gums. Many elderly people have dental problems that may require dentures in order to preserve their quality of life.
Seniors who have major oral health issues or missing teeth may find that dentures in SW Calgary, are a vital choice. Let’s explore what you need to know about dentures for seniors, including the types, benefits, care, and considerations.
What are Dentures?
Dentures, which are removable dental prosthetics, are used to replace missing teeth and the tissues that surround them. When a person is missing all or some of their natural teeth due to different conditions, such as decay, gum disease, trauma, or age-related tooth loss, they are used as a replacement. Dentures assist people with missing teeth to restore their ability to chew food, talk correctly, and maintain facial structure. They also serve practical and cosmetic functions.
Types of Dentures
Complete Dentures: When every natural tooth is missing, these are employed. Complete dentures come in two different forms: conventional (installed after the remaining teeth have been extracted and the gums have healed) and immediate (installed immediately after tooth extraction).
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures fill in the spaces left by missing teeth to enhance both beauty and function when some natural teeth are still present.
Implant-Supported Dentures: In comparison to conventional dentures, these dentures offer superior stability and a more natural feel since they are fixed in place by dental implants.
Benefits of Dentures for Seniors
Seniors who are missing teeth or have dental problems can benefit greatly from dentures. Some of the main benefits are as follows:
Improved Appearance
A senior’s smile can be restored with dentures, which can help them regain their sense of self-worth and self-confidence. Being self-conscious due to missing teeth is common, yet dentures offer a natural-looking alternative and improve one’s appearance.
Enhanced Chewing and Speech
It might be challenging to chew different meals and speak correctly when teeth are missing. Dentures help seniors speak clearly and maintain a balanced diet, which promotes greater overall health and social relations.
Preservation of Facial Structure
Missing teeth can result in changes to the face structure, such as a sunken appearance. Dentures support a more youthful appearance by preserving the facial muscles’ natural flexibility and maintaining the face’s natural contours.
Prevention of Further Dental Problems
Having spaces in the mouth from missing teeth can cause dental problems like shifting of the remaining teeth and a higher risk of gum disease. Filling these gaps with dentures helps to maintain the alignment of the remaining teeth and promotes overall dental health.
Customization
Dentures are made specifically for each person’s particular oral structure, resulting in a snug fit and a smile that appears natural. This customization makes sure that dentures fit and function well.
Restored Confidence
A senior’s self-confidence can be badly impacted by dental problems, particularly missing teeth. Seniors who wear dentures can solve this problem and feel more at ease in social situations, conversing, laughing, and smiling without constraint.
Versatility
Different types of dentures are available to meet different demands. When all teeth are missing, full dentures are suitable, whereas partial dentures fill the spaces between the natural teeth that are still present. Dentures that are supported by implants offer additional stability for people looking for a more secure solution.
Improved Nutrition
Seniors with dentures will be able to chew food more effectively and eat a wider variety of meals, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins. This helps maintain better nutrition and overall health.
Pain Relief
Dentures can ease chronic dental discomfort and oral health problems in seniors who have uncomfortable or severely damaged teeth.
Easy Maintenance
Dentures are easy to clean and maintain with regular maintenance regimens. Their lifespan can be extended with proper maintenance and regular dental exams.
Cost-Effective Solution
For many seniors, dentures are a sensible alternative since they are often cheaper than other tooth replacement choices like dental implants or bridges.
Caring for Dentures
Denture care and maintenance are critical for their longevity as well as your oral health:
- Soak Overnight: To prevent your dentures from drying out and losing shape, soak them in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight.
- Daily Cleaning: To get rid of food particles, stains, and bacteria, clean dentures every day with a soft brush and mild soap or denture cleaning.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: To ensure your dentures fit properly and for modifications, schedule regular appointments with your dentist in SW Calgary.
- Handle with Care: Handle dentures cautiously to prevent breakage as they are delicate. When handling them, it’s a good idea to place a soft cloth or some water in the sink to prevent any possible falls.
Considerations for Seniors
- Adaptation Period: Seniors should have patience with themselves throughout the transition phase because getting used to dentures may take some time.
- Cost: The price of dentures might vary based on the material and design. To aid with costs, seniors might look into insurance choices or dental assistance programs.
- Dietary Adjustments: At first, soft meals might be easier to consume, but as seniors become used to their dentures, they may slowly reintroduce different varieties of foods.
For seniors with dental issues, denture treatments near you can be a game-changer. They provide a wide range of advantages, from improving dental health to enhancing self-esteem and overall health. Individuals who wear dentures may live happy, fulfilling lives while eating, speaking, and smiling comfortably with the right attention and care.
Consult a dentist if you or a loved one is thinking about getting dentures to find the ideal solution for your specific requirements and get the rewards of a strong, effective smile.
Rediscover Your Smile and Oral Functionality
For seniors who have lost their smiles and oral function, Bow Trail Dental provides complete denture options. Our knowledgeable dentist near you specializes in creating personalized dentures that are made to meet your specific requirements and appear completely natural. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence due to our denture services, giving you a fresh sense of well-being.
Let us help you rediscover the joy of a complete smile. Book your appointment today!