If you’ve been living without teeth for years, you may wonder whether it’s still possible to get dentures. The short answer is yes—you can get dentures even if it’s been a long time since you lost your teeth. However, your journey to a new smile might look a little different compared to someone who has just recently lost their teeth. Here’s what you need to know.
How Tooth Loss Affects the Jawbone
When teeth are lost, the jawbone no longer receives the stimulation that chewing provides. Over time, the bone begins to shrink, a process known as bone resorption. This can change the shape of your mouth and face, making it harder for traditional dentures to fit comfortably and securely. People who have been without teeth for a long period may notice their jaw looks smaller, their lips sink inward, or their bite feels uneven.
Dentures Are Still Possible
Even with bone loss, dentures are still an option. Traditional dentures are designed to rest on your gums, and with proper adjustments, your dentist can create a set that works with your current anatomy. While they may not have the same stability as dentures supported by implants, they can still restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
The Role of Pre-Denture Treatments
If you’ve gone many years without teeth, your dentist may recommend certain procedures before fitting you for dentures:
- Bone grafting: If your jawbone has severely resorbed and you want implant-supported dentures, bone grafting may rebuild the structure needed to support implants.
- Soft tissue conditioning: Sometimes the gums need treatment to prepare them for the pressure of wearing dentures.
- Implant-supported dentures: Even if you’ve had significant bone loss, mini-implants or strategic grafting can make implant dentures possible, offering more stability than traditional ones.
Adjusting to Dentures After Many Years
Wearing dentures for the first time after a long period without teeth may feel like a big change. It can take time for your mouth muscles and tongue to adapt. You may notice:
- Soreness in your gums at first.
- Increased saliva production.
- A learning curve with chewing and speaking.
Fortunately, these issues usually improve with practice and follow-up adjustments from your dentist.
Benefits of Getting Dentures After Years Without Teeth
Even if it’s been a long time, getting dentures can improve your life in several ways:
- Better chewing ability for a wider variety of foods.
- Clearer speech, since missing teeth can cause slurring or lisps.
- Facial support, restoring fullness to your lips and cheeks.
- Improved confidence in social settings.
It’s never too late to restore your smile. Even if you’ve been without teeth for years, modern dentistry offers solutions to help you regain comfort, function, and confidence. Whether you choose traditional dentures or explore implant-supported options, your dentist can guide you toward the best treatment for your needs.
About the Practice
Are you looking to restore your smile, confidence, and functionality? Here at Painted Skies Dental Center, our talented, friendly husband-and-wife team, Drs. Natalie and Ramon Ortiz can outfit you with natural-looking, long-lasting dentures to give you your oral health back. You’ll enjoy our clean, comfortable dental office, and with in-house financing available, we can make your dreams more financially feasible. Schedule an appointment with us online or call our Las Cruces office at (575) 521-8720.