From the Guidelines
Dentures should be chosen as a treatment option when a patient has limited alternatives due to significant tooth loss, poor bone quality, or medical conditions that contraindicate surgical procedures, as evidenced by a recent study in 2023 1. When considering denture treatment, several factors come into play, including the patient's oral health status, bone density in the jaw, and personal preferences regarding comfort and aesthetics.
- Complete dentures replace all teeth in an arch, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.
- Dentures may also be recommended for elderly patients or those with cognitive impairment, as they can provide a simpler and more manageable solution for oral health maintenance, as seen in a case study from 2021 1.
- The decision to choose dentures should consider the cost, which is generally less expensive than implants, and the patient's ability to adapt to and maintain the dentures.
- Modern dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than older versions, though they typically need replacement every 5-7 years as jaw structure changes over time.
- In cases where patients have significant tooth loss or are not suitable candidates for implants, dentures can effectively restore basic chewing function and facial appearance, preventing facial muscle sagging that occurs with tooth loss, as supported by a study from 2023 1.
- Additionally, dentures can be a viable option for patients who require a non-invasive treatment approach, such as those with mild cognitive impairment, as discussed in a study from 2021 1.
From the Research
Choosing Dentures as a Treatment Option
Dentures, also known as false teeth, can be a viable treatment option for individuals who have lost one or more teeth. The decision to choose dentures should be based on several factors, including:
- The patient's overall health and oral health status
- The degree of tooth loss or edentulism
- The patient's ability to follow up regularly with their dentist
- Smoking status, as heavy smoking can delay tissue healing and may be a contraindication to implant placement 2
- The patient's preferences and budget
Considerations for Denture Placement
When considering dentures as a treatment option, the following factors should be taken into account:
- The type of denture that is best suited for the patient's needs, such as complete or partial dentures
- The potential for denture stomatitis, which can affect up to 70% of denture wearers 2
- The importance of regular oral examinations and proper denture care to prevent complications
- The potential benefits and drawbacks of dentures compared to other treatment options, such as implants or bridges 3, 4
Predictors of Patient Satisfaction with Dentures
Research has shown that patient satisfaction with dentures is influenced by several factors, including:
- The quality of the old prosthesis and the patient's satisfaction with it 5
- The type of jaw and the patient's motivation for denture renewal 5
- The technical quality of the old prosthesis, as assessed by a dentist 5
- The patient's gender, age, and cognitive status 5
Economic Perspective on Denture Placement
From an economic perspective, the decision to choose dentures as a treatment option should be based on a rational and explicit assessment of needs and costs 6. This includes considering the scarcity of resources and the potential benefits and drawbacks of different treatment options. Ultimately, the decision to seek care and comply with professional instructions rests with the patient, while the decision to provide treatment and determine the type of treatment lies with the dental profession 6.