When you think of treatments for replacing missing teeth, dentures are likely one of the first examples to come to mind. Many denture wearers are seniors, which causes a lot of people to assume that the treatment is only meant for older patients. But what if you’re a young adult who has suffered from extensive tooth loss? Could dentures still be a good choice for you? Here are the facts.
Is There a Lower Age Limit for Dentures?
The simple answer is no. Qualifying for dentures has nothing to do with how old you are. What actually matters is the current state of your mouth. If you have lost most or all of your teeth for any reason, your dentist may recommend dentures in order to help you reclaim a complete, functional smile.
Why Might a Young Adult Need Dentures?
As a young adult, you could potentially benefit from getting dentures if you have lost multiple teeth for any of the following reasons:
- Severe decay that has damaged your teeth to the point where they can no longer be salvaged.
- Advanced gum disease that has caused your teeth to come loose or fall out of the mouth altogether.
- Unchecked bruxism (grinding and clenching of the teeth) that has severely worn down or damaged your enamel.
- A sudden blow to the mouth or jaw that resulted in multiple teeth being badly damaged or knocked out of the mouth.
What Kinds of Dentures are Available?
It should be noted that the phrase “getting dentures” can mean different things for different people. Based on your circumstances, you may be eligible for one of the following kinds of dentures:
- Full Dentures: A full denture can sit directly on your gums so that it can replace an entire arch of teeth.
- Partial Dentures: When there are multiple gaps in your upper or lower arch, a partial denture can be worn to fill all of them simultaneously.
- Implant Dentures: If you want dentures that look and feel like your natural teeth, you can talk to your dentist about having your prosthesis attached to sturdy dental implant posts.
Why Should You Get Dentures at a Young Age?
No matter how old you are, it’s best to have missing teeth replaced as soon as possible. Thanks to dentures, you will be able to eat a wider variety of foods in order to maintain good nutrition. The prosthesis will also make it easier to speak clearly, and it may help give your confidence a boost by letting you enjoy a complete smile again.
Are you missing any number of teeth? Call your dentist today to set up an appointment to find out whether dentures – or another tooth replacement option – are the right choice for you.
About the Author
Dr. Shahram Modarres studied at the New York University School of Dentistry. He has made a point of keeping track of the latest developments in dentistry via continuing education. His practice, Rockville Family Dentistry, provides high-quality dentures for patients of all ages who are missing multiple teeth. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Modarres, visit his website or call (301) 816-9400.