Can My Mom Get Dentures with Advanced Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease

Hello, doctor.
My mother has seen several dentists before, and they all said she has periodontal disease.
Her teeth are almost all falling out.
The doctors said she needs to be treated quickly; otherwise, she won't be able to get dentures.
I would like to ask if my mother's gums have already shrunk significantly, can she still get removable dentures? Also, will the cost of treatment and getting dentures be very expensive? Thank you.

Lao Ma, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/10

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Patients with periodontal disease should first receive treatment to stabilize their periodontal condition.
After addressing the periodontal issues, teeth with poor prognosis should be extracted before considering prosthetic options.
Whether to opt for removable dentures or other types of restorations (such as implants) will depend on the condition of the alveolar bone and the periodontal status after treatment.
Different treatment methods will incur varying costs, so it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a dentist to determine the most suitable treatment plan.

Reply Date: 2006/03/10

More Info

When it comes to advanced gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, it can significantly affect a person's ability to get dentures. In your mother's case, where she has been diagnosed with periodontal disease and is experiencing significant gum recession and tooth loss, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that periodontal disease can lead to the loss of supporting structures around the teeth, including the bone and gum tissue. If your mother's gums are severely receded, this can create challenges for fitting dentures properly. Dentures rely on the gums and underlying bone for support, and if these structures are compromised, the fit and stability of the dentures may be affected.

Before considering dentures, it is essential for your mother to undergo treatment for her periodontal disease. This treatment may involve deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. In some cases, more advanced treatments, such as gum grafting or bone grafting, may be necessary to restore the gum and bone tissue to a healthier state. These procedures can help improve the overall health of her mouth and create a more suitable environment for dentures.

Once the periodontal disease is managed and the gums have healed, your mother may be a candidate for dentures. There are different types of dentures available, including complete dentures (for those who have lost all their teeth) and partial dentures (for those who still have some natural teeth). The specific type of denture that would be appropriate for your mother will depend on her individual situation, including the condition of her remaining teeth and gums.

Regarding the cost of treatment and dentures, it can vary widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the periodontal treatment required, the type of dentures chosen, and the dental practice's location. In general, periodontal treatments can be costly, especially if surgical procedures are involved. Dentures themselves also come with a price tag, and the cost can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the materials used and the complexity of the case.

It is advisable for your mother to consult with a periodontist or a dentist who specializes in restorative dentistry. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of her oral health, discuss the treatment options available, and give a more accurate estimate of the costs involved. Additionally, if your mother has dental insurance, it may cover a portion of the treatment and denture costs, so it's worth checking with her insurance provider.

In summary, while advanced gum disease presents challenges for getting dentures, it is not necessarily an insurmountable barrier. With appropriate treatment for the periodontal disease and careful planning, your mother may still be able to achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution for her dental needs. It is essential to prioritize her oral health and work closely with dental professionals to navigate this process effectively.

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