Are You Ready To Address Decayed Or Missing Teeth?

Dentures look more realistic today than they did several decades ago, when they were constructed of plastic. If some of your teeth are decayed or missing, you may be wondering if dentures are an alternative that will help you restore your smile. As uncomfortable as you may be about having all or some of your teeth pulled, this is only a temporary setback. Before making any rash decisions, have your teeth examined by a dentist.

Don't Be Ashamed About Your Condition

Poor dental hygiene or a sugary diet can lead to decay. Even if you have the best intentions now and brush your teeth daily, the habits that you followed as a child could have impacted your teeth. Don't put off seeing a dentist and try not to be ashamed about your condition. Dental practitioners have seen all sorts of problems throughout their careers and their main objectives are to restore smiles and ensure that gums and teeth are healthy.

Your problem may not even be as bad as you think. For all you know, some of the teeth that are decayed can be capped and maybe you are a candidate for a root canal, which will salvage teeth that have large fissures in them.

As for any gaps in your mouth, you can have partials made, which will conceal the imperfections in your smile. Partials contain acrylic resin fixtures that look like real teeth. The artificial teeth are secured to a plate. Partials are one type of dentures and differ from a full set because they only treat a specific area, instead of an entire row of teeth.

Receive A Recommendation

During your dental appointment, your gums and teeth will be visually assessed. After X-rays are taken, you will be provided with some insight about your dental situation and the methods that are available to resolve any problems. Don't worry if the dentist recommends dentures. It is ultimately your decision and you won't be forced to go through tooth pulling or denture fitting sessions if you are not ready.

You will, however, be informed about how dentures are manufactured and fitted. You can request to see actual case photos that will visually prove that dentures look like natural teeth. If you have been convinced that partial or full dentures are right for you, you will need to attend more than one appointment.

The first appointment will be to pull teeth that are decayed. Subsequent appointments will involve having your dental impressions taken so that dentures can be made that will fit and receiving assistance with installing your new dentures. 

For more information, talk to a dentist like Tony Parsley, DMD.