When you see dentures portrayed on TV (or maybe your mind’s eye), they’re usually falling from the mouths of seniors who have lost all of their teeth. However, modern dentures are a far cry from this old-fashioned notion of what it’s like to have a replacement for missing teeth, and there’s no reason why their demographic has to be limited to mature adults!
Keep reading, and you’ll see how dentures can benefit patients of all ages, including those who are young and “smell like teen spirit.”
Why Dentures Are Usually “For Old Folks”
The senior with a gummy smile and a mouth full of dentures might be a TV stereotype, but there is some truth to it. Statistically, tooth loss rates increase drastically with age, affecting about 10% of adults aged 65 to 74 and 20% of adults over the age of 75. Many times, poor oral hygiene habits during childhood and an extended avoidance of dental treatment leads to tooth loss later in life, though genetic factors can play a role as well.
Why Young People Might Need Dentures
These numbers don’t mean it’s impossible for younger people to experience tooth loss! Gum disease and cavities can wreak havoc on anyone’s oral health, regardless of age, as can accidents or injury. Youthful whippersnappers also aren’t immune to the negative effects of tooth loss, such as:
- Difficulties chewing or speaking efficiently
- Shifting teeth
- Jawbone deterioration
- General discomfort
- Feeling self-conscious about their smile
There’s no such thing as being “too young” for dentures. If you need a tooth replacement, then you simply need a tooth replacement.
The Benefits of Dentures for ALL Ages
Whether you need a full arch of dentures or a more customized partial set, filling out your smile with this dental restoration can help you feel better in the long run. And luckily, the benefits of dentures aren’t age-restrictive either! Here are just a few examples of how they could enhance your quality of life:
- By restoring your oral function, allowing you to eat and chew like normal
- Preventing any remaining teeth from shifting, avoiding the need for braces
- Helping to slow jawbone loss
- Providing increased comfort
- Creating a seamless smile that looks and feels natural
If you’re young and are missing one or more teeth, don’t throw away the idea of dentures before talking with your dentist. You might just be pleasantly surprised by how convenient and useful they are!
About the Author
Dr. Paul Samia is an experienced dentist, and very skilled with dental restorations like dentures. He’s even been granted a Fellowship in Implantology through the International Congress of Oral Implantologists! If you’re missing one or more teeth and are looking for a replacement, he’d be happy to talk with you more in-depth about dentures and other similar options. To contact Dr. Samia’s office, call 919-779-2818.