A Brand New Smile: Knowing When You Should Invest In Realistic Fake Teeth

One stereotype that seems to outlive the test of time is that fake teeth and senior citizens go hand in hand. There is always that classic movie scene of an older person with dentures in a glass of water next to their bed. However, contrary to belief, fake teeth aren’t just for the older population.  Although dentistry has come a long way in recent years, fake teeth are becoming more and more common among younger people.

Tooth Decay Doesn’t Happen Over Night

Luckily, tooth decay doesn’t happen overnight. There are plenty of preventive measures you can take to have a naturally healthy and bright smile. However, sometimes dental problems are out of our control. The good news is with modern technology, there are plenty of realistic fake teeth options that are indistinguishable from the real thing. So, if you do need fake teeth, you can feel assured that nobody will notice.

However, if you are unsure if you need fake teeth or not, here are the top signs you may need to invest in dentures or dental implants.

You Have Chronic Tooth Aches

One of the telltale signs you may need new teeth is if you have constant pain in your mouth and gums. Chronic tooth pain usually means that your tooth decay has progressed to a point where it has entered the nerve of the center of your tooth. If caught in an early stage, this could be repaired by a filling, but if the damage is irreversible, you may need your teeth extracted and replaced.

Your Gums Are Bright Red and Swollen

If your gums are unusually red and feel irritated, you may have an early stage of gingivitis or periodontal disease. According to the Center for Disease Control, gum disease is a significant cause of tooth loss in adults of all ages. If gingivitis continues to get worse, it can lead to not only tooth loss but bone loss and an absolute need for dentures or dental implants.

You Rarely Visit The Dentist

It is essential to visit the dentist at least twice per year for not just your teeth but your overall oral health. Each time you visit the dentist’s office, your dentist has the opportunity to monitor any decay you may have and treat your teeth appropriately. Not scheduling regular teeth cleaning limits your chances of stopping tooth decay before it is too late. The longer you go without routine checkups, the higher the chances are you need fake teeth.

There are Gaps Between Your Teeth

If you are noticing there are new gaps between your teeth or your teeth are shifting, it could be an obvious sign that you have a form of gum disease. Most times, when your teeth are loose and noticeably shifting, the damage is irreversible, and you will most likely have to invest in fake teeth.

You Have One Or More Missing Teeth

Many experts recommend that if you have at least one missing or more missing teeth, it is essential to have a prosthesis to replace the missing teeth. If left untreated, it takes away the stability of your remaining teeth and could cause them to shift or loosen. As stated above, once your teeth start to shift, you most likely will need them extracted and replaced with new fake teeth.

You Have Trouble Eating Certain Types Of Food

If it hurts to eat certain foods, you may need to replace your teeth. Not only is eating with damaged teeth painful, but it can cause severe digestive issues. For example, if you are not able to properly chew your food, you may swallow pieces that are too big which can wreak havoc on the digestive system.

There Is No Shame in the Teeth Game

There is no shame in having fake teeth, and you will most likely live a better life with them. If you have any of the above issues, it is essential to reach out to your dentist to discuss your options as soon as possible.