Should I Save My Last Three Teeth?

Posted by AllSmiles

Although I all but 3 of my bottom teeth, I will soon only have three upper teeth left. My dentist recommends extracting the other few remaining teeth because they are worn out from gum disease and stress from a partial denture. I got a second opinion from another dentist who gave me the option of keeping the three teeth upper teeth because they are mostly healthy and in the front of my mouth. He says that a partial denture will work. Now I need a third opinion, so I am writing to you. Won’t a full denture look and feel better than a partial denture? I have a budget, though, of about $6000, and that concerns me. I’m in my early 50s and would like a natural smile. Tim from Denver

Tim,

For an accurate diagnosis, you would need an exam and X-ray. However, we will share some information that might help you determine your next steps.

Saving natural teeth

Whenever possible, it is usually better to save your natural teeth. Removable appliances, including a partial denture, are not anchored, will have some movement, and put stress on the anchor teeth. With a few remaining teeth, your jawbone will shrink everywhere that teeth are missing.

When few teeth are left

Eating and chewing put a lot of stress on your remaining teeth. Although your remaining teeth may look healthy, the force of your lower teeth against them is harmful.

What about a complete denture?

Suction holds a complete upper denture in place, making it more comfortable and stable than a lower denture, which rests on your gums. A complete denture is also more comfortable than a partial denture.

Protecting your long-term oral health

Whether you choose a partial or removable complete denture, your jawbone will shrink if most or all your teeth are missing. After 10 or 20 years, not much jawbone is left, and your facial muscles will sag, and you will experience facial collapse. Only the areas where teeth are left will be unaffected.

A thin lower jawbone makes keeping a denture in place almost impossible. Some suction may remain for an upper denture, but bone shrinkage can make you look older prematurely.

Implant-supported dentures

The healthiest long-term solution for a situation like yours is usually to replace teeth with an implant-supported partial denture or a full implant-supported denture. But either option would be beyond your budget. Although a dentist needs to take a 3-D CT scan to determine your options, two implants might be enough to add stability to a denture.

An upper removable complete denture is an acceptable solution if you have a strict budget. Unlike a partial denture, it won’t stress a few remaining teeth and will improve your comfort when eating.

We recommend a third in-person consultation and exam with a skilled implant dentist to discuss your options.

Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post.