Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common yet serious condition that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. It begins with gum inflammation (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss. Many people with gum disease wonder if getting dentures will put an end to the problem. In this article, we will explore how dentures interact with gum disease and whether they can help prevent or stop it.
Understanding Gum Disease
Before we dive into the question of whether dentures can stop gum disease, it’s important to understand the basics of the condition. Gum disease occurs when bacteria in plaque, a sticky film that forms on teeth, inflames the gums. Over time, this inflammation can spread to the deeper layers of the gums and the bones that support your teeth.
There are two main stages of gum disease:
Gingivitis: This is the early stage, where the gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. Gingivitis can often be reversed with good oral hygiene.
Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets of infection. This stage can cause damage to the bone and tissues, leading to tooth mobility or loss.
Can Dentures Prevent Gum Disease?
Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth, and they come in two main types: full dentures and partial dentures. Full dentures replace all of a person’s teeth, while partial dentures replace only a few missing teeth.
When it comes to gum disease, dentures do not directly treat or prevent the condition in the gums. However, they may have an indirect effect on the health of the gums in some cases. Here’s why:
Dentures Don’t Fix the Underlying Problem
While dentures can replace missing teeth, they do not address the underlying causes of gum disease. If the disease is still present when you get dentures, it can continue to affect the remaining gum tissues.
The bacteria that cause gum disease can still thrive in the areas where teeth are missing, even if dentures cover those spots. In fact, if a person has poorly fitting dentures or doesn’t clean them properly, plaque and bacteria can build up on the dentures and the gums, leading to further irritation and potentially worsening gum disease.
Impact of Dentures on the Gums
Getting dentures after losing teeth may help improve the appearance of your smile, but they also place pressure on the gums. The soft tissues in the mouth can sometimes become irritated or inflamed due to the contact with dentures. Ill-fitting dentures can rub against the gums and cause discomfort, potentially exacerbating gum health issues.
The Importance of Proper Denture Care
Proper care of dentures is essential in preventing any future gum problems. Cleaning dentures thoroughly and regularly helps remove bacteria, plaque, and food particles, which can reduce the risk of gum irritation and infection. Denture wearers must also visit their dentist regularly for checkups to ensure the dentures fit well and do not cause harm to the gums.
Dentures and Gum Disease in People with Existing Conditions
If you already have gum disease and are considering dentures, it’s crucial to address the disease before getting dentures.
Dentures will not heal gum disease on their own. The gums need to be healthy and free of infection to ensure that the dentures fit properly and comfortably. If you are suffering from gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend treatments such as scaling and root planing, which are deep cleaning procedures that remove plaque and tartar below the gumline, to help treat the infection.
Once your gum disease is under control, your dentist may proceed with fitting you for dentures. However, keep in mind that even with dentures, you still need to maintain good oral hygiene to avoid future gum problems.
Will Dentures Stop Gum Disease After Tooth Loss?
The loss of teeth can contribute to the development of gum disease in some cases. Without teeth, the gums may shrink or recede, and the remaining bone structure may weaken. The absence of teeth may create spaces where food particles and bacteria can become trapped, further contributing to gum issues.
Dentures, when properly fitted and cared for, may help prevent some of these complications. By filling in the gaps left by missing teeth, dentures may reduce the likelihood of food becoming trapped between the gums and jawbone. However, this doesn’t guarantee that gum disease will not occur. Gum disease can still affect the remaining gums, even after tooth loss, so it’s essential to continue practicing good oral hygiene.
How to Prevent Gum Disease While Wearing Dentures
To ensure that dentures do not negatively affect your gum health, follow these steps:
Brush Your Gums Regularly: Even if you wear dentures, it’s important to brush your gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled brush every day. This helps to remove bacteria that can lead to gum disease.
Clean Your Dentures Thoroughly: Plaque and food particles can accumulate on dentures just like on natural teeth. Use a soft brush and non-abrasive denture cleaner to clean your dentures after each meal.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist will check for signs of gum disease and ensure your dentures are fitting correctly. Ill-fitting dentures can lead to irritation and infection, so they should be adjusted if necessary.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. If you wear dentures, quitting smoking can help protect your gums from infection and reduce your risk of gum disease.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals helps keep your gums healthy. Make sure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D to support gum and bone health.
Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in your mouth and prevent gum infection, even if you wear dentures.
Conclution
While getting dentures can help improve your smile and restore some of the functions of your teeth, they do not stop gum disease on their own. Dentures replace missing teeth but do not address the underlying causes of gum disease. To prevent or manage gum disease, proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and denture care are essential. If you already have gum disease, it’s important to treat it before getting dentures to ensure optimal gum health and a proper fit for your dentures.
