 Removable Dentures
Initially, a removable denture can look esthetically attractive and natural. A denture is less costly than non-removable solutions such as bridges and dental implants. For some patients, because of physical health or economics, it is the only option available to them.
Research and technology make it possible to produce dentures that look better, feel better, and last longer. In the same comfortable and comforting environment where thousands of permanent smiles have lighted faces, patients requiring dentures can now select from a full menu of removable dentitions.
Removable dentures are simply an interim solution for many patients. Due to the problems described below, many patients eventually opt to pursue dental implant treatment.
A large majority of the edentulous population elect to purchase dentures. For some this decision is economic as the first set of dentures is likely to cost significantly less than other healthier choices. However, many are lured into this confidence shaking nightmare without sufficient education about the real cost of teeth that come out at night. And the bottom line is that even with the best dentures on earth, a denture wearer is still edentulous. The teeth have essentially been amputated.
Long term dentures eventually become costly. Because oral bone continues to shrink even with dentures in place, that first set of dentures will begin to loosen like old loafers and develop mobility. The first fix is more glue in the mouth. Then the lab will reline the dentures. Eventually another set will be required. And then another and perhaps another. The skin on the face cannot keep up with the shrinking gumline and wrinkles develop. The facial profile sags. Enter psychological cost. There is no peace of mind that this deteriorating condition will ever come to conclusion. Consider also that time is money and much precious time may be spent in pursuit of comfortable dentures with an acceptable appearance.
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