Everything You Know About Dentures Is Wrong

Okay, so maybe not everything. Like most people, you probably have a solid understanding of the basics of dentures–what they do, why they’re needed, and where to get them. You know that missing teeth affects the appearance of your smile, and you know that eating your favorite foods would be all but impossible without all of your teeth. Even so, say Drs Maria and Thanasi Loukas, many people have preconceived notions about dentures in Park Ridge, IL, making them less likely to seek treatment. Let’s debunk some popular misconceptions.

“Dentures are only for people of a certain age.”

Wrong. The truth is, adult tooth loss can happen to anyone of any age. Not all causes of tooth loss are related to aging or hygiene. Partial or complete dentures can also restore teeth lost due to major illnesses, car accidents, or other injuries. It’s true that dentures are more prevalent among older adults, but in no way does this mean that they are not an option for other age groups.

“Everyone knows when you’re wearing dentures.”

Not at all, says Dr. Loukas. The materials and techniques used to make dentures have come a long way in the past decade or so. Modern dentures can be made to fit any mouth shape and size, and the teeth appear virtually indistinguishable from your own teeth. You may have heard that dentures slip or make a clicking noise while worn, which may have been true in the past. However, carefully fitted removable dentures are not prone to these irritations.

“I still have several healthy teeth, so I’m not a candidate for dentures.”

You needn’t have lost all of your teeth to benefit for dentures. Unlike complete dentures, a partial denture fills gaps in your smile much like a piece in a jigsaw puzzle. We often recommend partial dentures to patients who have lost multiple teeth, not necessarily adjacent to one another. If you have lost multiple teeth in a row, a permanent dental bridge may be a better option.

Not all patients will opt for dentures to replace missing teeth. Fortunately, we offer several alternatives, including dental implants and bridges. We are also pleased to dentures secured by implants for added stability. Regardless of which option you select, we recommend seeking treatment as soon as you are able. Life with missing teeth poses serious threats to your oral health, making you more vulnerable to damaged and decayed surrounding teeth.

Are you a candidate for dentures in Park Ridge, IL? To learn more about teeth replacement options, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Thanasi Loukas or Dr. Maria Loukas, contact us at (847) 696-1919. Our office welcomes patients living in Park Ridge, Chicago, and the areas in and around the 60068 zip code.