Dentures are a practical and cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They can help you speak and chew properly again, and when well cared for and maintained, dentures can last for up to 10 years. But how do you know that it might be time to get dentures? Here are four signs that you should talk to a dentist or denturist about getting implant dentures:

You are missing one or more teeth

Easily the number-one sign that it's high time to consider getting dentures is if you're already missing one or more teeth. Having missing teeth will force your remaining natural teeth to work harder, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay and potentially causing your other teeth to fall out as well. You won't need a full set of dentures if you only have one or a few missing teeth. Instead, you can get a dental prosthetic known as a bridge.

Your teeth feel loose and have shifted position

Perhaps you have not lost any teeth yet, but your natural teeth are starting to shift position and feel loose. Loose and shifting teeth are characteristic of bone loss and gum disease, and a dentist will likely recommend that you consider having those teeth extracted and replaced with dentures or bridges.

You have tooth pain

Frequent tooth pain can signify a number of different dental problems, from tooth decay to tooth sensitivity. However, when coupled with loose and shifting teeth, tooth pain usually means the teeth have decayed to the point that the tooth root is exposed. A dentist will take a look at your teeth and determine if they can be fixed with a root canal or if they will need to be removed.

You have swollen and tender gums

Swollen and tender gums are usually a sign of gum disease. When swollen gums, tooth pain, and loose teeth all present together, then you are likely experiencing bone loss and an advanced stage of gum disease known as periodontitis. Early stages of gum disease can be reversed, but advanced periodontitis and damaged teeth may require that you have some or all of your teeth extracted.

Getting dentures sooner rather than later can lead to far better oral health in the long term and help improve your quality of life. If any of the aforementioned signs apply to you, don't delay; make it a priority to start looking into dentures.

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