An elderly woman recently visited our clinic, seeking help with her ongoing dental issues. She had several decayed and loosened teeth in her lower jaw, which caused her significant discomfort. As we discussed her concerns, she mentioned that she was experiencing intense pain and had noticed bad breath, which made her self-conscious and less inclined to socialize with others. Additionally, she found it difficult to chew or eat her food properly due to the mobility of her teeth.

Recognizing the severity of her symptoms, we proceeded with a comprehensive diagnosis to identify the underlying problem.

Diagnosis and Findings

During our examination, we discovered that the patient had receding gums and a considerable amount of plaque buildup on her teeth. An x-ray revealed more concerning issues: she had developed gum infections that were causing her teeth to become loose. The combination of gum disease and plaque buildup had led to significant deterioration in her oral health, making it clear that her remaining lower teeth were no longer functional.

Given the extent of the damage and the limited treatment options available, we determined that the best course of action was to remove her remaining lower teeth and replace them with a lower denture.

Patient Consultation and Decision

When we first presented the idea of getting a lower denture, the patient was understandably hesitant. She had concerns about the removal of her remaining teeth and how the denture would function and look. To help her make an informed decision, we explained the situation in detail. Our doctors discussed how the gum infections were likely to worsen over time, leading to further bone loss and potentially more severe oral health issues. We also explained that the combination of missing teeth and shrinking gums could affect her appearance

After learning about the benefits of dentures—such as improved ability to chew food, enhanced appearance, and restored confidence—the patient agreed to proceed with the treatment.

Preparation for Denture Placement

Before the lower denture could be fitted, we needed to prepare for the change. This preparation involved a few important steps.

Tooth Extraction: First, we carefully removed her remaining lower teeth under local anesthesia. The extractions were necessary to create a stable base for the new denture. We took care to ensure her comfort throughout the procedure.

Gum Treatment: After the extractions, we performed a thorough dental cleaning to treat her gums. This included tooth scaling and root planing to remove any remaining tartar and bacterial infection from the gums, promoting proper healing and reducing the risk of further complications.

Denture Fitting Process

With the preparations done, we proceeded to the denture fitting process.

Impressions: We took detailed impressions of her lower jaw to create a custom denture that would fit comfortably and securely. These impressions were crucial in ensuring that the denture would be well-fitted to the unique contours of her mouth.

Temporary Denture: While waiting for the permanent denture to be fabricated, we provided the patient with a temporary lower denture. This allowed her to maintain her appearance and continue eating with minimal disruption during the healing process.

Final Denture Placement: Once her gums had healed and the permanent denture was ready, we fitted it carefully to ensure it was comfortable and functional. The final denture was designed to match the natural appearance of her teeth, giving her a restored smile and improved ability to chew and speak.

Post-Treatment Care and Adjustment

After the denture was placed, we provided the patient with detailed instructions on how to care for her new denture and maintain her oral health. This included guidance on cleaning the denture, maintaining good gum health, and adjusting to life with dentures. We also scheduled follow-up visits to monitor her progress and make any necessary adjustments to the fit of the denture.

Conclusion

The process of getting a lower denture can be a significant change, but for this patient, it was a transformative experience. By replacing her decayed and loose teeth with a well-fitting lower denture, we were able to restore her ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence. The patient was relieved to find that her discomfort and bad breath were resolved, and she could once again enjoy social interactions without feeling self-conscious.

For elderly individuals facing similar dental challenges, a lower denture offers a reliable and effective solution, allowing them to regain their quality of life and maintain their oral health.