Determining when it’s time to get dentures is a decision that will ultimately be made by both you and your dentist. Many of our patients, however, want to know what they should look for or alert the  dentist to in order to start this important conversation. 

The following signs don’t necessarily mean that you or a loved one have to have dentures, but if you’re experiencing these symptoms, call our office to schedule an appointment. Dentures may be one of several solutions that Dr. Tom Alexander can discuss with you to solve the problem. 

Periodontal Disease 

Gum disease or periodontitis can loosen teeth or cause tooth loss. This serious gum infection damages soft tissues such as the gums and, in severe cases, can even destroy the bone that supports the teeth. 

Fortunately, catching periodontal disease early gives you and the dentist time to treat the condition with antibiotics, scaling, and root planning. Only when the disease has progressed too far and you begin to lose your teeth does it become necessary to start looking at a full or partial set of dentures. 

Bleeding Gums 

Bleeding gums are one of the first noticeable signs of gum disease. For this reason, if you notice your gums bleeding when you brush or floss, be sure to tell your dentist at your next check-up. Treating this problem early will protect you from losing teeth. It is never normal for gums to bleed. 

Loose or Missing Teeth 

Typically, when teeth are loose, wiggling, or very mobile, it is a sign of a problem with the bone that  “holds” the teeth in place. Depending on the extent of bone damage, it may be a matter of time before the teeth are lost. 

If you have missing teeth, schedule an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible. It may be possible to use implants or a bridge to replace the missing teeth, or it may be necessary to discuss dentures. Gaps in your teeth are more than just unsightly; they are also prime locations for bacteria to grow, making it much more likely that you will have shifting teeth as well as losing more teeth in the future. 

Tooth Pain 

Recurring pain, especially pain that intensifies, can be a sign of an advanced infection. If caught early,  the issue may only be a cavity, but if the problem grows, a root canal or loss the tooth may occur. 

Quality Dentures For Senior Citizens in Irvine, California 

If you’re experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call Dr. Tom Alexander of Sterling Plaza Dentistry today. Dr. Tom is the person to see for dentures for senior citizens Irvine, California residents have come to know and trust. Remember that complete replacement of teeth is often a last resort, and the earlier 

our dentist can catch and diagnose your dental problem, the more choices for treatment will be available. You can reach us at (949) 868-2224.

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