Restoration Restriction: Are Dentures Just for Seniors?

March 3, 2025

Dentist in white holding dentures with both hands at her midsection

Dentures are the tried-and-true solution to replace missing teeth because they restore your mouth’s appearance and functionality to improve your daily quality of life. With them in place, you can chew more easily, enunciate words clearly, and smile confidently.

Many people assume these restorations are reserved for the elderly because tooth loss impacts them more frequently. However, many younger adults have gaps in their grins, too. If you’re worried you’ll be judged, read on to learn how people at almost any age can benefit from dentures to set your mind at ease.

What Causes Tooth Loss?

Did you know that studies show seniors are 5.3 times more likely to have lost all of their teeth? Not only that, but they’re also 1.6 times more likely to have suffered partial tooth loss than other adults. This is likely why the general public tends to associate replacement teeth, like dentures, with getting older.

However, there are several reasons for missing teeth that can affect people of all ages, such as:

  • Periodontal problems. Gum disease is the number one leading cause of tooth loss because your connective tissues eventually recede, leaving your pearly whites without an anchor.
  • Severe cavities. Teeth that are too damaged to be treated effectively with fillings or root canals might require extraction and replacement to preserve your oral health.
  • Poor nutrition. If you consume excessive amounts of sugar, carbs, and acidic foods, they can erode your enamel, increasing your vulnerability to cavities and injuries.
  • Physical trauma. Athletes and others who participate in close-contact activities are more likely to have an emergency that dislodges a tooth.
  • Teeth grinding. People with bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding, can strain and weaken their jawbones with the constant pressure of clenching down.
  • Other medical conditions. Different health issues and associated medications can increase your vulnerability to oral issues and contribute to tooth loss.

How Do Younger People Benefit from Dentures?

There are many advantages to restoring your smile with one of these lifelike restorations, regardless of how old you are, including:

  • Improved confidence. Filling the gaps in your grin can help you look and feel like the best and most beautiful version of yourself.
  • Wholesome meals. You’ll be able to chew your food more thoroughly to enjoy a wide range of healthy ingredients to support your general and dental health.
  • Enhance enunciation. Missing teeth can result in a slur, lisp, or other changes to your speech patterns that can be overcome with dentures.
  • Better opportunities. Better self-esteem can help you be more successful at work, school, or in social situations.  

With dentures in place, you’ll have a beautifully restored smile you can be proud of!

About the Practice

At Barker, Rohner and Hunt DMD of Raleigh, you benefit from a team of dentists with several decades of combined experience. They collaborate cohesively to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, and can help with everything from basic preventive services to replacing lost teeth. Their welcoming office environment is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results tailored to your unique needs. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (919) 847-7100