Dentures Candidacy 

Dentures can be an excellent option for individuals who are missing teeth, but not everyone is a good candidate. Several factors can affect a person’s candidacy for dentures.

Number of Missing Teeth

Dentures can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, but the extent of tooth loss may affect the type of denture recommended. For example, partial dentures are typically used when only a few teeth are missing, while complete dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth.

Jawbone Density

Good candidates for dentures typically have healthy gums and enough jawbone density to support the denture. If you have bone loss, you may require other treatments before receiving dentures. 

Good Oral Health

Patients should be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental checkups with their dentist to ensure the longevity of their dentures.

Gum disease

Patients with gum disease may require treatment before getting dentures. Our Urbandale, IA dentist will evaluate the extent of the gum disease to determine if the patient is a suitable candidate.

Expectations and Goals

Patients should have realistic expectations about what dentures can and cannot do. For example, dentures can improve the appearance of the smile and help with basic functions like chewing and speaking, but they may not feel or function exactly like natural teeth.

Cost

Cost can also be a factor in determining candidacy for dentures, as they can be a significant investment. However, many dental insurance plans do cover a portion of the cost of dentures, making them a more accessible option for some individuals.

Overall Health

If a patient has other health conditions that might make dental surgeries or procedures risky, removable dentures might be a safer option.

Denture Alternatives

If dentures aren’t right for you, your dentist may recommend any of these alternatives:

• Dental implants: Implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to provide a stable base for a replacement tooth or teeth. Dental implants are a popular alternative to dentures as they look and function like natural teeth and can last for years.
• Dental bridges: Bridges are artificial teeth that are anchored in place by neighboring teeth. They’re a good option for patients who are missing one or more teeth in a row but still have some natural teeth remaining. Dental bridges are less invasive than implants but may not last as long.
• Flipper: A flipper is a removable partial denture used as a temporary tooth replacement. It’s usually made of acrylic and is less expensive than other options, but it’s not a long-term solution.