When you need an answer to your tooth replacement quandary, full or partial dentures can be a viable option. Whether you’re in need because of gum disease, serious oral trauma, or another reason, dentures offer an effective-yet-affordable solution.

Dentures are not the longest-lasting tooth replacement option, however, and the time will come for them to be replaced. How can you tell when a switch is needed? Keep reading to learn why it matters to make the move and the clues that let you know when to do so.

Modern dentures are much more durable than the prosthetics your parents or grandparents might have worn. However, they’re not designed to be permanent. Even the most tailor-made, high-quality denture will need to be replaced after about seven to ten years at most. But how can you tell when that time has come? Here are three telltale signs that you should replace your denture, and how stabilizing your next denture with dental implants can help it last several times longer!

When your dentist finds that you have gum disease, they might refer to it as either “gingivitis” or “periodontitis.” However, these two terms are not interchangeable; they refer to separate stages of gum disease and can determine what kind of treatment you need to protect your smile. It’s important to know the difference between gingivitis and periodontitis so that when your dentist uses either term, you know exactly how serious the situation is.

Whether you’re struggling with one missing tooth or an entire arch, dental implants can beautifully restore your complete smile. To keep them in tip-top shape throughout the years, practicing proper prevention is essential, like visiting your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning. But what if you begin to experience sensitivity in your dental implant? Is that considered a dental emergency? Keep reading to learn the potential causes, symptoms of dental implant failure, and when you should call your dentist.

Experiencing a toothache, no matter how dull or severe, can be bothersome. While not all are preventable (i.e., sinus congestion, lodged food), many of the cases seen by dentists often relate to poor oral hygiene. The recommendation by your dental professional and the American Dental Association (ADA) is to maintain six-month dental checkups and cleanings. So, if you want to minimize your risk for problems that can lie beneath the surface of your gums, spend a few moments learning why it’s beneficial to keep your scheduled dental appointments twice a year.