Can dentures be fitted to receding gums?

If you have lost any natural teeth, dentures are important. They are not just a cosmetic solution to replace missing teeth, they are a necessity. The absence of teeth makes chewing food more difficult or impossible (depending on the number of missing teeth and the food in question); and having missing teeth can also affect your speech. 

Dentures – often referred to as false teeth – can be partial or complete, depending on the number of teeth that need replacing. You will also have the choice between removable dentures or permanent implants which are attached to titanium screws implanted into your jaw. 

However, in order to successfully fit either removable dentures or permanent implants, your dentist must first ensure you have good oral health. This means making sure your remaining natural teeth are strong and healthy, and that you do not have visibly shrinking gums.  

What causes gum tissue to recede?                                  

Gum recession is an indication there’s a problem. Healthy gums hold your teeth in place, so if they start to recede, they will start to detach from your teeth. This could result in sensitive teeth, decay and even tooth loss. 

Receding gums can be caused by different factors. Probably the most common is poor oral hygiene leading to gum disease, where a buildup of plaque results in gum inflammation. This encourages harmful bacteria to collect where they release toxins that irritate the gum tissue still further. 

Physical factors that can cause gum recession are aggressive brushing, using toothpicks too much, or because of an injury to your gums. 

If you do not address the cause of your receding gums, you will make the problem worse which could result in loose teeth, or losing teeth altogether. 

Why dentures must not be fitted to receding gums                                  

If you have receding gums, your dentist will not be able to fit dentures or implants. Removable dentures are custom made to fit snugly to your teeth and gums so they do not slip and cause friction and discomfort. Therefore, in order to fit properly for as long a time as possible, your gum tissue (and teeth) must be healthy at the beginning of the process. 

In terms of dental implants, the titanium screws must be fixed in strong bone in order to hold the implant securely. Untreated gum disease could permanently weaken the bone making it impossible to fit dental implants, or cause the failure of implants already fitted. 

Problems with receding gums must be rectified first

It is therefore necessary to treat receding gums and any problems with your teeth before being fitted for dentures in order to get the best results. You will not only have healthier teeth which lessens the likelihood of further problems with decay, you will also ensure that wearing dentures is comfortable and remain so for a long time. 

Can you fix receding gums?

The good news is that receding gums can be successfully treated. See your dentist or dental hygienist who will remove any plaque and tartar buildup that provide a home for harmful bacteria, as well as professionally clean your teeth. 

They will show you how to maintain good oral hygiene in order to prevent any plaque returning and promote good gum health. As soon as your gums return to full health, your dentist will be able to start the process of fitting your new dentures or implants. 

Preventing receding gums and gum disease

The best way to prevent gum recession and gum disease is to maintain good dental hygiene through regular brushing and flossing as well as visiting your dentist regularly for check ups, alongside visits to the hygienist for tooth scaling and a professional polish. During a check up, your dentist will spot any early signs of gum recession and take steps to put them right before it has a chance to get worse and do any long term damage. 

Private Dentist London

Dr Richard Clinics is a leading private dental practice in the Marylebone area of Central London, providing a range of aesthetic and general dentistry services, including dentures and dental implants. Click here to book a free consultation, either in our clinic or remotely, where we will discuss all your current and future dental requirements.