An estimated 20 million Americans wear dentures. Loose denture issues are a common problem and one you do not want to ignore. This can lead to discomfort and even issues with eating and talking. Learning more about loose dentures treatment options and other facts ensures that you can quickly contact the best dentist in Beverly Hills to address the issue.
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Loose Denture Consequences
A loose denture can make it difficult to eat and talk. When doing these activities, a denture can slip out of place, making it hard to impossible to continue. You might also notice that when you open your mouth, your loose denture starts to click.
A more serious loose denture problem is mouth sores. This is due to the loose denture rubbing on your gums and the other areas of your mouth. When this happens, you can experience pain and there is a risk for infection.
Why a Loose Denture Occurs
Dentures shrink over time due to factors like jaw and shrinkage, age and daily use. A loose denture can also result from cleaning it too much. It is important to keep all of your appointments at Smile Angeles of Beverly Hills so that you get adjustments in a timely manner. The right adhesive can also ensure a better fit in between dental visits.
Denture Alternatives
A loose denture is inevitable when you wear them, especially long-term. Because of this, you might explore alternative options to see if a different type of tooth replacement is better. Dental implants are a better alternative to dentures for many people. Bruce Vafa DDS can help you to explore your options to pick the best one for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a type of tooth root that is artificial. Your dentist then places a tooth on them that feels, functions and fits like your natural teeth. Implants work for replacing multiple teeth and single teeth, depending on your needs.
An implant has three components, including the actual implant, the abutment and the crown. The implant is actually a screw that attaches to your jaw permanently. A crown is the prosthetic tooth and this connects to the implant via the abutment.
Dental Implant Benefits
Dental implants are a better alternative to dentures for several reasons. While a loose denture is not uncommon, you do not have to worry about an implant loosening with time and wear. You can also eat normally as an implant functions like your natural teeth. This means that you can eat things like steak and tough breads without an issue.
As you age, your lower face loses volume due to bone resorption. While this happens with dentures, it does not occur with dental implants. Because of this, you can reduce the signs of aging and look younger for longer.
Research shows that many types of implants can last for as long as 30 years. Because of this, once you get implants, you may not need any adjustments for the rest of your life.
You do not have to worry about the discomfort that can come with dentures when you have implants. This is because they function like your natural teeth. They will not move around and rub on the soft tissues of your mouth causing discomfort.
Dental Implants Cost in Los Angeles
The dental implants cost in Los Angeles ranges from $1,500 to $7,500 per tooth. However, not replacing missing teeth or dealing with loose denture issues can be far more costly long-term.
Dentures vs. Dental Implant Maintenance
You need to soak your dentures each night in an approved cleaner. If you use harsh toothpastes, this could weaken your dentures. When you do this, you are removing plaque, debris and bacteria. If needed, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove anything that does not come off during the soak. Never use hot water to soak them as this could result in warping which can cause a loose denture.
See your dentist on a regular schedule so that any needed adjustments happen in a timely manner. This is necessary on occasion due to changes in your jaw.
With a dental implant, you care for them just like you do your natural teeth. Do your normal flossing, rinsing and brushing every day to maintain your tooth and gum health. You will also see your dentist twice a year for cleanings and an examination.
Overall, dental implants are far easier and less expensive to maintain. This is true whether you have one or you use implants to replace all of your natural teeth.
Dentures vs. Dental Implant Timeline
Both dentures and implants can take some time. Your dentist will review your specific situation and give you an estimated timeline based on your unique needs.
On average, you will need at least four visits to get your dentures. This could span several months, depending on how many natural teeth remain and the type of denture you are getting. It is important to allow your mouth time to heal before putting your dentures in or this could cause loose denture issues in the future. Your dentist will want to give your gums time to shrink before taking molds because of this.
How long you have to wait to get a tooth implant depends on your situation. There are instances when the dentist can place an implant right after an extraction. However, if the implant process requires bone augmentation, it could be three to six months before your dentist can put the implant into place.
A loose denture is not something that you want to let continue. Bruce Vafa DDS and the other professionals at Smile Angeles of Beverly Hills can help to determine the best loose dentures treatment for you. Call today to schedule your consultation so that you can live in comfort.