Since most of my teeth are decayed or missing, I am looking into extractions and dentures. I’m only 57 years old, but I neglected my teeth because medical issues took priority. My health is still not good, but it is stable. Should I see a dentist or an oral surgeon first? Thank you. Joel from Memphis, TN
Joel,
Thank you for your question.
If you need extractions and dentures, we recommend looking for a dentist who does both. Pre-denture tooth removal is not complex, and many general dentists do both.
Finding a Dentist for Extractions and Dentures
Look online for experienced dentists. Call a few offices and ask how the dentist handles patients who require tooth removal and dentures. Try not to hint that you are looking for a dentist who does both. Otherwise, they may offer to do both so that you will schedule with them.
Dental Anxiety
If you need dentures and have anxiety about dental visits, ask about sedation dentistry. Your new dentist will create a treatment plan using sedation to complete as much work as possible during each visit. Sedation helps you relax while the dentist completes more work than they could when your anxiety level is high.
Stabilizing Your Denture
When all your teeth are missing, you lack tooth roots to stimulate and preserve your jawbone. So the jawbone will gradually shrink. Without the bone to support your facial muscles, the muscles will sag and make you look older.
Your dentist or an oral surgeon can place dental implants or artificial tooth roots in your jawbone. Your dentist will attach a denture to them after a healing period. Not only will implants stimulate your bone and prevent shrinkage, but your denture will also look and feel better.
What to Look for in a Dentist
If you are interested in tooth removal, dentures, and implants, look for a dentist with post-graduate training in these areas:
- Dental surgery
- Dental implants
- Cosmetic dentistry
You can schedule consultations with two dentists to discuss your concerns and your options.
Ryan Perry, DDS of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, sponsors this post.