When Is It Time to Get Dentures? Key Signs to Look For

For the average person, tooth loss develops gradually over time; it doesn’t happen overnight. It often begins with small problems that affect how you eat, speak, and feel about your smile. Many people avoid treatment for tooth loss because of doubt. They wonder, “When is it time to get dentures?” or “Aren’t dentures only for extreme cases?”

In this article, we’ll share situations and symptoms where dentures may be necessary, the different types of dentures available, and what the process typically looks like. Read on for all the information you need.

Signs You May Be Ready for Dentures

If you’re experiencing tooth loss or reduced oral function, the time to act is now. Although not every issue requires complete dentures, these symptoms warrant a professional evaluation:

  • Persistent pain or loose teeth: Ongoing tooth pain or loose natural teeth can signal advanced tooth decay or periodontal disease. When a tooth no longer has enough bone support, your dentist may not be able to save it. Replacing damaged teeth with a denture can help relieve discomfort and restore stability.
  • Significant difficulty chewing: Missing teeth, shifting remaining teeth, or pain when biting down can make it hard to eat, affecting your nutrition. If you have trouble chewing soft foods, dentures (including partial dentures) can help restore dental function.
  • Multiple missing teeth: A single missing tooth can be fixed with a dental implant or bridge. However, when you’re missing multiple teeth, you may need partial or complete dentures. When left alone, gaps can cause your remaining teeth to shift, increasing your risk of further tooth loss.
  • Frequent infections: Recurring infections, abscesses, or gum swelling are common signs of serious oral health issues. If you have these issues, you may need a tooth extraction and placement of one or more dentures to control infection. For urgent symptoms, we urge you to seek emergency dental treatment in Sacramento to prevent complications.
  • Difficulty speaking clearly: Missing or unstable teeth can make it difficult to speak clearly. Dentures help to restore your mouth’s structure, improving your pronunciation and confidence over time.
  • Gum sensitivity and irritation: Ongoing gum sensitivity, bleeding, or tenderness often come along with periodontal disease. As gum recession and bone loss worsen, dentures may be needed to replace teeth that your gums can no longer support.

Types of Dentures and Who They’re Right For

Thanks to modern cosmetic dentistry, you have several denture options. And each one is designed for different tooth loss situations, oral needs, and preferences.

  • Full dentures: Replace all teeth in the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Often recommended when most natural teeth are missing or have to be removed due to severe tooth decay or disease.
  • Partial dentures: Used for patients who have tooth loss but still have healthy teeth left. They fill gaps caused by missing teeth and help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting.
  • Implant-supported dentures: Anchored to dental implants placed in the jawbone for added stability and improved chewing strength. A great option for patients who have enough bone density.

Read this resource to learn more about dentures: What are Dentures?

Your ideal denture type depends on several factors:

  • Oral health
  • Bone structure
  • Lifestyle
  • Comfort preferences

Meet the team that helps to customize your care.

Oral Health Conditions That Lead to Dentures

Certain diseases and conditions greatly increase your likelihood of needing dentures in the future. Understanding each of these factors can help you with prevention and lead you to seek early treatment when necessary.

Advanced Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is one of the top causes of adult tooth loss. If it’s allowed to worsen over time, it destroys the bone and tissues that support your teeth. In the disease’s advanced stages, teeth may need to be removed and replaced with complete dentures or partial dentures. The CDC provides helpful resources on gum disease information and prevention.

Bone Loss

Bone loss is often the result of long-term tooth loss or untreated gum disease. Without stimulation from natural teeth or implants, the jawbone shrinks over time. Bone loss can affect denture fit and may influence whether dental implants would be a good option for you.

Severe Tooth Decay

When tooth decay affects multiple teeth or goes deep into the natural tooth structure, the only option may be to extract the affected teeth. Removing severely damaged teeth and placing a new denture can reduce pain and restore your oral function.

Accident or Trauma

Injuries from falls, sports, or accidents can cause sudden tooth loss. In cases like these, immediate dentures or temporary dentures may be placed right after tooth extraction. This helps to restore your smile and ensure proper mouth function throughout the healing process.

Long-Term Lack of Dental Care

Putting off dental care for years can lead to widespread decay, infection, and tooth loss. Though this can feel overwhelming, dentures and other treatments can be used to restore your oral health. Our patient testimonials and success stories highlight how life-changing dentures can be.

What the Denture Process Looks Like

Understanding the denture process can ease anxiety and help you feel prepared.

  1. Initial consultation: Your dentist evaluates your mouth using exams and imaging to assess your remaining teeth, gum health, and bone structure before recommending a treatment plan.
  2. Impressions and measurements: The dental team takes impressions and bite measurements to ensure your false teeth fit securely, align properly, and support natural speech and chewing.
  3. Tooth extraction if needed: If damaged teeth cannot be saved, your dentist performs extractions. In some cases, an immediate denture is placed the same day, so you won’t have to go without teeth.
  4. Temporary vs. final dentures: You may wear temporary dentures while your gums heal. Once healing is complete, your dentist fits your permanent dentures for long-term use.
  5. Adjustments and follow-up: Follow-up visits help maintain comfort and fit. Your dentist makes adjustments as needed and provides guidance on daily care and denture adhesive use.

Here’s how to care for your dentures at home:

  • Clean your dentures every day with a denture brush and a nonabrasive cleaner.
  • Rinse after meals when possible.
  • Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth daily.
  • Store dentures in water when not in use.
  • Use denture adhesive as directed if needed.

For more information, read about our denture services.

When to Talk to a Dentist About Dentures

Talking to a dentist as soon as possible can give you more treatment options and help prevent further tooth loss, bone changes, and discomfort. An early evaluation may also help preserve your remaining teeth and, in some cases, make options like partial dentures or dental implants possible instead of full dentures later.

Before your consultation, we urge you to write down your symptoms, concerns, and goals. That way, you can have a productive conversation with your dentist and get all your needs addressed.

If you or someone you care for is experiencing signs of tooth loss or discomfort, the best next step is to contact us today. We’ll help restore your oral health and quality of life.