Quick Answer: Why Do Dentists Not Recommend Dentures?
While dentures have been a long-standing solution for missing teeth, most dentists now recommend other options due to the significant drawbacks associated with dentures.
These removable prosthetics often lead to discomfort, and have a pronounced impact on everyday life - from eating to speaking.
They also fail to prevent jawbone loss, which can result in a changed facial appearance over time.
Comfort and Fit Issues
Dentures, especially full dentures, can be uncomfortable and will never fit perfectly.
While they are custom-made for each patient, changes in your gums and jawbone over time can lead to a poor fit. No matter how well manufactured a denture is, the anatomy of the jaw, gums, tongue, and cheeks will prevent it from being stable in the mouth. This effect is especially pronounced with lower dentures, which will rock and move when speaking or chewing.
This can cause difficulties with eating and speaking, and may lead to sore spots or infections.
Impact on Speech and Eating
Dentures can have a significant impact on a person's ability to speak clearly and eat certain foods.
Certain consonant sounds can become difficult to pronounce, and a person's speech may become less clear.
Eating can become less enjoyable as dentures can make it difficult to taste food and to chew hard or sticky foods.
Many denture patients will never regain the ability to chew foods like steak.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Dentures require careful maintenance.
They must be cleaned regularly to prevent issues like bad breath, staining, and fungal infections.
They should also be removed and soaked overnight to maintain their shape and to give the gums a chance to rest.
Dentures break easily. In fact, it is common to see dentures break from even a gentle fall into the sink basin.
Further, dentures are not free from upkeep and continued costs.
Expect to need your dentures relined every few years.
Expect to replace your dentures every 5-10 years if you want to maintain an adequate fit.
Dentures Don't Prevent Bone Loss
One of the major downsides of dentures is that they don't prevent the bone loss that occurs when teeth are lost.
Our jawbones need the stimulation provided by the roots of our teeth to maintain their density. Without this stimulation, the jawbone can gradually deteriorate – a process known as resorption.
Unlike dental implants, which replace the tooth root and provide necessary stimulation, dentures only replace the visible part of the tooth and do not halt the process of bone resorption.
Dental Implants as a Preferred Alternative
Many dentists recommend dental implants over dentures. Implants replace the root of the tooth, helping to prevent bone loss, and they function much like natural teeth. They don't need to be removed for cleaning, won't slip or move around, and don't impact speech or eating in the same way dentures can.
However, it's important to note that while dentures have their downsides, they may be the best solution for some patients. They are often more affordable than implants and can be a good solution for people who aren't candidates for implants due to health reasons.
Always consult with your dentist or a dental professional to determine the best treatment option for you.
The Future of Dentures: Improvement & Innovations
Advancements in dental technology are making dentures more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before. Implant-supported dentures, for instance, combine the benefits of implants and dentures to provide a stable and comfortable solution that also helps preserve jawbone density. As dental technology continues to evolve, we can expect the drawbacks associated with dentures to be increasingly mitigated.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while dentures have their challenges, they remain a viable option for many. It's important to have an open dialogue with your dental professional to discuss your personal needs and the best course of action for your oral health.
FAQs
Who is not a good candidate for dentures?
Individuals with a resorbed or small jawbone, as well as those that are expecting dentures to function as natural teeth do, are poor candidates for dentures. Dentures require a ridge of jawbone to support the denture. And the people that understand the downsides and limitations of dentures will always be more satisfied with a denture.
What is the downside to having dentures?
The main downside to dentures is that they can be uncomfortable and interfere with speech and eating. They also don't prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to changes in facial appearance over time. Furthermore, dentures require careful daily maintenance and must be removed and soaked overnight.
Is it better to have dentures or bad teeth?
It's generally better to keep natural teeth as long as possible, but if teeth are severely damaged or causing health issues or infection, removal and replacement might be necessary. Dentures can be a good solution for some, but dental implants or bridges might be better alternatives for others due to their comfort and functionality.
What is the biggest problem with dentures?
The biggest problem with dentures is often their impact on quality of life. Denture wearers frequently report difficulties with speaking and eating, discomfort due to ill-fitting prosthetics, and the inconvenience of their daily care routine. Additionally, dentures don't prevent jawbone loss, which can lead to a changing facial structure.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.