Confident Smiles: Dentures and Receding Gums

Receding gums or gum recession can be a source of concern for many people. Not only does it affect the aesthetics of your smile, but it can also impact your oral health. If gum recession disqualifies you from getting dentures, the answer is generally no. In fact, dentures can be a good solution for people with receding gums, but there are some factors to consider.

Understanding Receding Gums

Receding gums occur when the gum tissue around your teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth root. This can happen due to several reasons, including:

• Gum disease: This is the leading cause of receding gums. Plaque buildup at the gum line irritates the gums, leading to inflammation and eventually receding gum tissue.
• Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard can damage the gums and cause them to recede.
• Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to gum recession than others.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause can contribute to receding gums.

While receding gums themselves aren’t a barrier to getting dentures, they can affect the fit and stability of the dentures.

Dentures and the Impact of Receding Gums

Dentures rely on the gums and underlying jawbone for support. When gums recede, there’s less surface area for the dentures to grip onto. This can lead to several issues:

• Poor fit: Loose dentures can slip and slide around in your mouth, making it difficult to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
• Discomfort and irritation: Loose dentures can rub against the gums, causing irritation and sores.
• Bone loss: When dentures don’t fit properly, they can put uneven pressure on the jawbone, leading to bone loss over time. This can further complicate getting well-fitting dentures in the future.

Solutions for Denture Wearers with Receding Gums

The good news is that there are solutions available for people with receding gums who want dentures. Here are some options your dentist might recommend:

• Implant-supported dentures: Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone. They act as anchors for dentures, providing superior stability and support. This is a great option for people with significant gum recession or bone loss.
• Soft liners: These are soft inserts that fit between the dentures and the gums. They can improve the fit and comfort of dentures, especially for those with receding gums.
• Denture relining: Over time, dentures may need to be relined as the gums and jawbone naturally change shape. This process involves adding new material to the base of the dentures to ensure a snug fit.

Talking to Your Dentist

If you have gum recession and are considering dentures, it’s important to talk to your dentist. They can assess your situation and recommend the best course of treatment. Here are some questions to ask your dentist:

• Are dentures a good option for me, considering my receding gums?
• What type of dentures would be most suitable for me?
• Do I need any additional procedures, like gum grafting, before getting dentures?
• How can I care for my dentures and gums to maintain a good fit?

By working with your dentist, you can find a denture solution that allows you to smile confidently and enjoy a good quality of life.

Additional Considerations

While dentures can be a great option for people with gum recession, it’s important to remember that they require proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips:

• Brush your gums and tongue daily with a soft toothbrush to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.
• Clean your dentures regularly according to your dentist’s instructions.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and adjustments to ensure your dentures continue to fit properly.

Taking care of your dentures and gums will help you get the most out of your smile.

For those looking for a restorative dentist specializing in dentures in the Nederland, TX, area, a quick web search can help you find qualified professionals who can address your specific needs and concerns.