Pros And Cons of Dentures: Are They The Right Choice For You?

If you have ever lost your teeth and are getting concerned about it every day, then don't worry, you are not alone. Getting dentures is common, and it is the first thing that might pop up in your mind when you want to get your teeth fixed.

Dentures now have improved both in terms of aesthetics and comfort; they are really very stable and affordable replacements for your missing teeth.

However, before you make any decision, we want you to know about the pros and cons of dentures so that you can make the right decision for your smile.

What Are Dentures And When Are They Recommended?

You need to understand the basic definition of dentures first to know about the other details regarding the process. Dentures are a custom-created appliance to replace your missing teeth and restore your smile to its original form.

Different situations require different dentures. Types of dentures include full dentures, which fit when all teeth are missing. While partial dentures function when you are still left with some teeth in your jaw.

Your dentist can suggest dentures when you have lost your teeth to gum disease, decay, an injury, or even to natural wear and tear as you grow older. Dentures become the solution for many of us when there are no other avenues available to save or restore our own teeth.

Sometimes, you don't appreciate the difference missing teeth make to eating, speaking clearly, and even to the shape of your face. Obtaining dentures is something that you don't take lightly, nor is it often something we have many choices about.

Different Types Of Dentures and Knowing Which Might Suit You Best

With dentures, there is no "one size fits all." This is a good thing - because you have a lot of choices, and the type of dentures is based solely on your needs, comfort level, and lifestyle.

To begin with, you have full dentures that cover an entire set of teeth on the upper or lower jaw. If you've lost some teeth but not all of your teeth, you might consider getting partial dentures, which will replace the missing teeth but will blend in with your natural teeth.

There are also immediate dentures. These are dentures you get immediately after having your teeth extracted. Finally, we have conventional dentures, which are made after your gums have healed and where they will actually fit better.

You might also consider implant-supported dentures. Rather than removable dentures, these help to secure your teeth with dental implants.

Moreover, Implant-supported dentures still fall into the category of dentures, but they provide more stability than traditional dentures. Regardless of which type of dentures you choose, it's all about how you feel about your prettiest smile.

Your dentist will walk you through the process, but the more you know about your choices, the more ownership you will feel in that decision process.

Pros: Why To Choose Dentures?

Getting dentures is a big step, and therefore, you need to know the pros before going for it. Here are the reasons why getting dentures is a good decision:

Cost Effective And Accessible

You will immediately see one of the major perks: cost. The difference in cost compared to options like implants or bridges is striking.

If you are working with a strict budget or choose to avoid surgery, dentures offer a way to achieve that toothless smile without worrying about spending beyond your means.

The American Dental Association (ADA) maintains dentures are one of the most cost-effective means of treating significant tooth loss - nothing can match the price of dentures.

Safe And Fast Option

To be honest, you likely do not want to undergo a surgical procedure and months of healing anyway.

Dentures eliminate any surgery, and while there may be some discomfort in customization (think aligners or braces), most can accomplish everything in a couple of appointments.

For some, particularly older adults or for those with health issues or both, the limited time and requirements are a big advantage.

Restores Usability And Confidence

Losing teeth affects more than just eating and speaking; it also affects confidence. Dentures will restore your ability to chew most types of food and speak more definitively. And that allows you to reenter the social world, eat out again, and smile without a second thought. Many of our patients tell us that after only a brief period of adjustment, they feel like themselves again.

Customizable For A Natural Appearance

Modern dentures, while sometimes large, are much better than the bulky ones you may remember. In fact, they are designed and shaped and shaded to match your gums and actual teeth.

Whether you are looking for a complete or partial denture, we work with dental labs to ensure that the appearance is as natural looking as possible and that it feels just like whatever denture you're having!

Cons: What You Should Know Before Committing To Dentures?

Apart from all the good things that you have just read, there are a few disadvantages of the procedure as well. Here are the cons of getting dentures:

Adjustment And Comfort Issues

Let's be honest; dentures can be an adjustment. Initially, you may feel like they do not fit properly or feel large.

Some patients experience sore spots, headaches, or difficulty speaking and chewing during the adjustment period. While most of these issues improve substantially over time, we want you to be ready for this adjustment period.

Maintenance And Replacement Over Time

Dentures are not a "fit and forget option." You will have to clean them daily, put them in a soaking solution overnight, and take care of them.

Also, your gums and jawbone will change over time, so the dentures may need to be relined, and you can expect to replace them every 5 -7 years. If you are looking for a more permanent option, this may be a downside for you.

May Effect Taste Or Speech Initially

We also want you to be aware that some patients do report changes in taste or speech, especially with upper dentures, which sit on the roof of the mouth.

These should decrease as you adapt to the dentures, but again, these are all considerations that you will need to weigh as part of the pros and cons of dentures.

Conclusion

Selecting dentures is a personal decision, and we hope this guide has informed you. Once you have the advantages and disadvantages of dentures in mind, you will be more confident to make the right decision for your smile and lifestyle, and you will be able to get the teeth that you always wanted to have for your looks.