You may not think that dentures are something you even have to think about, but the truth is that people of all ages often require dentures. Dentures have come a long way in recent years. Modern dentures are often difficult to spot, and many people you know may be wearing dentures without you even realising it.
But what are the telltale signs that could indicate a problem for which you may need dentures either now or in the future? Here are a few of the main ones to look out for.
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Loose Teeth
If your teeth are moving around, something is usually wrong. You may not experience any pain, but if you feel your teeth moving or notice wider gaps between your teeth, this could be a sign of gum disease, which can cause bone loss. You may not be able to see it, but it can become more advanced without you realising and it may even lead to the need to extract a tooth.
Problems Eating Hard Foods
If you find difficulty eating foods that are particularly hard or chewy, something could be up. It could indicate a whole range of problems, from a cracked tooth to cavities, but catching the problem early is important.
Gum Problems
Red or bleeding gums, or just gums that are unusually tender, usually indicatte that something is not right. Inflammation of the gums can be quite mild at first, but if you do nothing about it, it could become more advanced and lead to more serious problems such as gum disease.
Gum disease can lead to tooth loss over time, which may lead to the need for dentures. So if you notice that something is not right, book an appointment with your dentist.
Toothache
Many people suffer from toothaches, and the pain can range from mild to severe. Toothaches are never a good sign, and they can sometimes be a sign of tooth decay. The best thing to do is act quickly, and your dentist may suggest that you need nothing more than a simple filling. However, leave a toothache unchecked for too long and the decay can become more severe, in which case you may even lose the tooth, which could lead to the need for dentures.
You Have Already Lost Some Teeth
If you have already lost a few teeth, you may need dentures. Many people will consider dentures if they lose a front tooth because this is more visible. However, if you lose a back tooth you may be less inclined to do anything about it. But gaps in your back teeth can put pressure on your other teeth, which could lead to more chance of experiencing problems, and a denture can be used to prevent issues from arising.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
The best way to avoid problems with your teeth is to visit the dentist every six months even if you don’t notice any problems. If you do start to notice symptoms, book an extra appointment immediately. Your dentist will pick up on any problems at an early stage before you even realise that something is wrong, and will inform you if you need dentures.
