When most people think of dentures, they may picture an older adult who lost all their natural teeth. While it’s true that seniors are more likely to wear this prosthetic due to age-related tooth loss, they are not the only ones who can enjoy a fuller smile through this treatment. Younger adults can and do wear dentures too! Here is why someone might experience tooth loss at a younger age and how they can benefit from this reliable tooth replacement option.
Why Might a Young Adult Need Dentures?
There are several reasons why someone in their 20s to 30s (or older) might need dentures. Some of them are:
- Accidents or trauma that caused extensive tooth loss
- Severe tooth decay or gum disease throughout the mouth
- Medical conditions like bulimia or acid reflux that erode teeth
Anyone can have missing teeth, so your dentist wants to keep restorative options open to you that make sense for your oral health. In many cases, that may be a denture!
How Dentures Can Benefit a Young Adult
If you are a younger adult suffering from severe tooth loss, you should consider dentures. Thanks to advancements in dental technology, modern-day dentures are custom-made to look and feel more natural than ever before, allowing you to enjoy a complete smile once again. Whether you choose full, partial, or implant dentures, they are a reliable solution that provides more than aesthetics.
With a complete set of pearly whites, you can dramatically improve your eating habits and overall nutrition. Missing teeth can make it harder to eat certain foods, but dentures can help you bite and chew through food easier and more confidently.
This dental prosthetic can also help protect your remaining teeth from damage. Gaps from a missing tooth encourage the surrounding teeth to shift out of alignment to fill the space. Dentures can help keep them in place! By preventing crooked teeth, you’ll avoid an increased risk of excessive enamel wear, jaw problems, cavities, and self-consciousness.
Dentures Are All About Function and Confidence
There is no “right” age to get dentures. What matters most is restoring function and confidence to your daily life. Many younger patients may initially feel hesitant due to the stigma that only older adults can wear dentures.
However, it’s important to remember that replacing missing teeth is essential for improving your oral health. Everyone deserves a chance to rebuild their smile, and dentures are an option that can benefit many people. You can always discuss restorative dental treatments with your dentist to make the best decision for your grin.
About the Author
Dr. Luke Vernon earned his dental doctorate from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. He is dedicated to helping people of all ages build and maintain happy smiles. Dr. Vernon offers a wide range of services, including dentures. He works closely with a dental lab to ensure your prosthetic is custom to you and fits like a glove. If you want to fill gaps in your smile, schedule an appointment or call us at (720) 902-8080.