Denture Wearer?

The first President of the United States was essentially forced into retirement because of his dentures–over two hundred years ago. The unfortunate thing is that in the 21st Century, people are still suffering in exactly the same way.

Are dentures really the best option?

George Washington was a denture wearer. According to the National Museum of Dentistry, troubles with his teeth and his ill-fitting dentures prevented him from giving the inaugural Presidential Address in his second term in 1792.

In one portrait sitting, the painter actually had to have President Washington stuff cotton in his mouth to help his appearance. Later in life, he complained about his dentures “forcing my lips out,” and finding eating and speaking increasingly difficult, he retired from public life.

The first President of the United States was essentially forced into retirement because of his dentures. Over two hundred years ago.

The actual set of dentures owned by George Washington

The unfortunate thing is that in the 21st century, people are still suffering in the same way. Unable to eat comfortably. Unable to perform professionally. And unable to enjoy their lives to the fullest.

Fresh Start’s perspective is that dentures are simply not the best option available to people—especially with the technology today and the unique treatment setting of a Fresh Start Dental Clinic. If you are considering dentures, read more—then, come in and let us talk to you about your options. If you do decide to become a denture wearer, Fresh Start has specialists who are the best in their field at creating dentures with the most optimal fit possible.

Health risks of dentures

Patients with dentures should consider the clinical and health risks associated with long-term denture wearing:

Significant bone loss. Loss of teeth leads to the deterioration of the jaw bones and the loss of facial support.
Diet challenges. It is estimated that you can chew with dentures only 10% as well as with natural teeth. That means a significant impact on your food options. Many find it difficult to impossible to eat certain foods like apples, carrots, or steak.
Potentially reduced life span. Partially as a result of the diet challenges, denture wearers may have an impacted lifespan. We know that the average lifespan of denture wearers is less than the non-denture-wearing population.
Pain and discomfort. Even well-fitting dentures create a certain amount of pain. The pain can become chronic, creating problems even when you aren’t wearing the dentures.
Other risks. Dentures frequently are the source of fungal infections, sore spots, burning of the mouth, and cracking of the corners of the mouth during the life of the denture.

Other drawbacks

In addition to the clinical and health risks, other negative factors exist:

Accelerated appearance of the aging process. Because of bone loss in the jaw, the facial structure deteriorates. While this can be arrested and even corrected by replacement of the denture with permanent implants, the sooner the action is taken the less significant the damage. Over time, bone loss becomes extensive, often making it difficult—sometimes even impossible—to wear dentures. Significant bone loss can also make it impossible for patients to be treated with dental implants.

Decreased self-confidence. Your smile is a key element of your appearance. Concerns about it can affect performance at work, social interactions, and even personal relationships.
Social reclusiveness. Unfortunately, many denture wearers become so uncomfortable that, like George Washington, they almost retire from public interaction.

It is estimated that you can chew with dentures only 10% as well as with natural teeth.

What can be done?

Your situation can be turned around. You can have a full set of permanent, functioning teeth. All the health concerns and the other negative factors are totally eliminated, and the normal functioning of your teeth is restored. You are able to enjoy eating food or smiling. You are able to get back to your life’s fullness. And this is a permanent solution—this will continue to improve your life for years and years to come.

You also will no longer have to deal with dentures that move around or gag you. Or have to remove the palate on your denture just so you can taste food again, feel hot and cold, or speak like you used to. Or worry about the dentures in the cup in the bathroom.

Finally, if your appearance has started to be affected by loss of bone, dental implant replacement teeth can restore your natural appearance. The health risks associated with dentures are all eliminated. The increased functionality will allow you to eat foods you might be avoiding right now, actually improving your health through diet and avoiding the potential damage this represents to your overall lifespan.

The solution is dental implants. Implants have been used for 40 years, have been FDA approved since 1982, and are a predictable and superior treatment option. In fact, dental implants are the standard of care among dental specialists for tooth replacement because they are safe, effective, and provide a better outcome.

To find out more about implants, see the What are implants? section.

Why Fresh Start?

As you consider the best solution for your tooth replacement needs, you also need to consider who you will get to help you. Fresh Start has one goal: to provide you with the best care possible in the market today. The care you receive really can be better. Here’s how Fresh Start helps you:

Specialty care. Your care is provided solely by accredited specialty surgeons and prosthodontists. These are specialists in their field, who understand the complexity of implant placement and are trained to produce the best fit for you. No general dentist has the skill set of a team of surgeons and prosthodontists. And their focus is making sure your treatment gives you the best appearance, best fit, and best function.
Comfort and pain management. We use the latest medical procedures and anesthetics to actively eliminate pain and maximize your comfort. And we provide a clinic environment specifically designed for the comfort of our patients.
Technology. Our treatments use permanent solutions, such as dental implants. Our diagnostics utilize the latest CT imaging technologies to ensure exact understanding of your clinical needs. Our labs use the latest CAD/CAM technologies to create solutions that meet your requirements exactly. We use only the best implant companies. And all treatment is conducted in full operatory suites, the safest environment for comfort and care.
All in one and all at once. All of your care is in one place. You don’t have to worry about multiple visits to multiple offices. And once we’ve had an initial consultation with you, in many cases all remaining care can be done in one visit.
Your financial partner. We also recognize that this lifestyle change is a financial commitment. We have trained, dedicated Care Coordinators who will actively help you address your financial needs as you make this change that will last for decades.

You can learn more about us here: How are we different?

At Fresh Start, we realize that restoring functionality and aesthetics is the foundation on which self-esteem and social reengagement are built. We will help eliminate your preoccupation with worry and help you live life with renewed passion and confidence. It is time for you to get back to living life to its fullest. Come see us at Fresh Start to experience your own lifestyle improvement solution. Call today to book your free consultation!