The aging American population is the most vulnerable to dental problems. They develop teeth and gum issues, leading to tooth loss. Most of the aging population have lost their teeth once they’ve reached their time of retirement. In such cases, dentures are the safest bet.
Dentures
Dentures have been around for centuries. The first dentures were made of gold, silver, and ivory. Unfortunately, they were very uncomfortable and did not fit well.
In the 1800s, dentures were made of porcelain. They were much more comfortable and fit better than the earlier versions. In the 1900s, plastic dentures were invented. They were much more affordable and more accessible to make than the earlier versions.
Today, there are two types of dentures: full and partial. Full dentures are used when all the teeth are missing. They are made of plastic or porcelain and fit over the gums. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They are also made of plastic or porcelain and fit over the gums.
Dentures have many benefits. They are relatively inexpensive, costing only around $600. Moreover, they are easy to care for and easy to repair. However, they have some disadvantages. They can be uncomfortable and cause gum irritation. They can also slip out of place and make it difficult to eat and speak. If you find your dentures to be problematic, consider these options.
Implants
Implants are a popular alternative to dentures. They are tiny titanium screws that are placed in the jawbone. An artificial tooth, called a crown, is then placed on top of the implant. Dental implants have all sorts of benefits. They are permanent and look and feel like natural teeth. They are also firm and allow you to eat and speak without difficulty. Implants also don’t need that much maintenance. The best part is that you never have to remove them!
Bridges
Another great alternative to dentures bridges. Bridges are false teeth that are held in place by surrounding natural teeth. They can be made of different materials, such as porcelain, metal, or plastic.
Bridges have many benefits. They are much cheaper than implants, costing around $600 per tooth. They are also easy to care for and don’t require special cleaning solutions or brushes. However, they do have some disadvantages. Bridges can damage the surrounding teeth, and they can also become loose over time.
If you’re considering getting a bridge, talk to your dentist about the pros and cons first.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are other great alternatives to dentures. They are made of porcelain or composite resin to restore damaged teeth. Inlays are used for small areas of damage, while onlays are used for larger areas.
Inlays and onlays have many benefits. They are much stronger than fillings and can last up to 30 years. They also don’t require maintenance, making them an excellent option for those who forget to maintain their dentures.
These alternatives exist for those who have lost their teeth. But the best alternative to all these things is to ensure that tooth decay doesn’t happen to you.
Preventing Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a common problem that affects many people. It is caused by plaque, a sticky substance on the teeth. Plaque contains bacteria that can damage the teeth and gums.
If plaque is not removed, it will harden into tartar. You cannot remove tartar with a toothbrush, so a dentist must remove it. Tartar can cause gum disease and tooth decay.
You can prevent tooth decay in just three ways. The most apparent option is good dental care.
Improved dental care
Improving your dental care can help prevent tooth decay. This means brushing your teeth at least twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. These simple steps will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, keeping them healthy and strong.
Avoid smoking
When it comes to dental health, smoking is one of the worst things you can do. Smoking can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer.
Smoking causes plaque to build up on the teeth, leading to tooth decay. The nicotine in cigarettes also causes the gums to become irritated and bleed. It can also lead to gum disease.
If you are a smoker, quitting is the best thing you can do for your dental health. Many resources are available to help you quit smoking, so talk to your doctor or dentist about what options are best for you.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet is essential for overall health, but it is also vital for dental health. For example, a diet high in sugar can cause tooth decay. To help prevent tooth decay, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Dentures are an excellent option for those who are on a budget. However, alternatives exist for those who don’t want the inconveniences that come alongside it. Also, by preventing tooth decay, you don’t have to worry about losing your teeth in the first place.
