Expert: Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD - 11/10/2008

Question
Do you work with dentures?  I'm wondering what problems people have with them when gotten just for the lower molars.  If so, can you share some of the pitfalls of them as well as good things, if any. I was told I'm not a candidate for implants.  I was thinking of dentures anyways.     Thanks

Answer
Hi Don,

Dentures are a great way to replace missing teeth.
Do you have the rest of the teeth and are using them just for the molars?

If so, here is what you need to be aware of;
- You need to leave the denture out at night-time. Your tissues need a chance to breathe.
- You need to clean the denture, as lots of gunk can build up on it.
- You need to carefully clean the adjacent teeth that the denture holds onto. These teeth are often overlooked, and end up needed a lot of dental work.
- One disadvantage, is that the dentures sometimes have a see-saw effect. When you bite down, they push into your gums, and when you open, they pull up. The problem with this is twofold; 1. It's annoying and 2. it can damage the adjacent teeth.

However, the benefits are that it is an affordable way to replace missing teeth to allow you to return to full function.

Please let me know if you need more help.