“Dental consultation for dentures?”
I'm 70 years old, and my teeth feel like they are starting to be loose. Should I be considering dentures now?
11 Answers
You should first consider having an exam ,an xray and getting your teeth cleaned.
No I suggest you see a periodontist who can evaluate and treat your loose teeth
You need to schedule an appointment to be evaluated. You should have a full mouth series of X-rays taken to evaluate your teeth thoroughly to determine their condition. Losing your teeth and starting to wear dentures is not an easy transition at 70, but may be necessary.
You probably need a full dental exam; you might have gum disease and or may grind your teeth as well. Saving your teeth will ensure better chewing ability. Now with implants, these problems are less of an issue.
Get evaluated by a dentist.
You need to see your dentist. Sometimes you can have your dentures relined. Without teeth, your bone starts to shrink. Some patients place force on their tissues. Some patients place tremendous force on their ridges. This can form large indentations on your ridges. Just with normal use, your dentures stay the same size, but your tissues shrink. When any adhesive doesn't work, it is time to consider getting a new set. You mention your age. We will live as long as are going to live. There are families who say why? You worked all your life. Sacrificed for everyone. I had relative who would say she was buying her last sofa. Eighteen years later and 5 new sofas and she was looking for #6. You deserve to be comfortable when you eat and talk!!!
Yes! If you are having dental concerns a consultation would be the very best place to start. Natural teeth are always the best option and loose teeth could be an indication of various degrees of gum disease which may be treatable. Dentures are the final option once you run out of other choices. A physical examination of the teeth as well as radiographs/X-rays and measurements regarding gum tissue health would be needed in order to make a determination of what choices might be best for you. The consultation should be able to give you some choices and complete dentures may be part of the solution.
First you should have an exam by a dentist to see if your teeth are maintainable.
I'm darn near 70 myself and the bone around my teeth is fine. Your best option would be to see a dentist. Have him take full mouth X-rays and perform a full mouth periodontal charting. Those two things will determine the health of the bone. Preserving bone is the key keeping your teeth. Have your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice yearly. Floss at least every other day and brush with an electric toothbrush.
Neal Nealis, DDS
Neal Nealis, DDS
Go to the dentist, get full mouth x-rays, exam, and consultation to find out your options, cost, pros and cons of each alternative, etc. Cannot make a diagnosis and treatment plan without these things.
Best to consider dental implants if you can. Otherwise, dentures are the next best alternative.
