Wondering if dentures might be in your future? If you’re experiencing missing teeth, dental pain, or difficulty chewing, you’re not alone, and understanding your options is the first step to restoring your smile. As a dentist in South Baltimore and Downtown Baltimore with over 15 years of experience, I’ve helped hundreds of patients determine whether they’re denture candidates, and what the right solution is for their long-term oral health.
This guide walks you through the signs to watch for, evaluation criteria, and what to expect if you’re exploring tooth replacement options like dentures, bridges, or implants.
Signs You May Need Dentures
If you’re asking yourself, “Do I need dentures?”, these are the most common signs we evaluate during a professional denture consultation.
Missing Multiple Teeth
Missing several teeth, especially in a row, is the most obvious indicator. This not only affects how you eat and speak, but also causes your jawbone to shrink and facial muscles to sag.
General Rule: If you’re missing more than 3–4 teeth in one area, dentures or another tooth replacement option should be considered.
Severe Tooth Decay or Damage
When teeth are too compromised for fillings or crowns, dentures often become the most practical solution. If you’re frequently dealing with broken teeth or root canals, this could be a red flag.
Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
Advanced gum disease can cause bone loss and loose teeth, making long-term preservation unlikely. During a denture evaluation, gum condition plays a major role in your treatment plan.
Ongoing Dental Pain or Infections
Chronic infections and abscesses signal that your oral health may be declining. Replacing infected teeth with dentures can relieve pain and improve your overall health.
Trouble Chewing or Speaking
Difficulty chewing certain foods or slurring speech due to gaps or loose teeth often suggests that it’s time to consider a tooth replacement.
Does Age Matter When It Comes to Dentures?
No, dentures aren’t just for seniors.
While age increases the likelihood of needing tooth replacement, I’ve fitted dentures for patients in their 30s and 40s due to:
- Genetic enamel weakness
- Untreated cavities or gum disease
- Sports injuries or trauma
- Autoimmune or chronic conditions
- Medication side effects (e.g., dry mouth, decay)
What matters more than age is your oral function, comfort, and confidence, and that’s what we focus on during every denture evaluation at Waterfront Dental .
What Determines If You’re a Denture Candidate?
At our South Baltimore and Downtown Baltimore dental office, every evaluation includes a thorough exam and personalized treatment recommendations. Here’s what we assess:
Jawbone Density
Good bone structure is needed for implant-supported options. If density is low, we may suggest traditional dentures or grafting before implants.
Gum Health
Healthy gums help dentures fit better and feel more comfortable. We’ll check for inflammation, recession, or infection during your exam.
Remaining Teeth
If you still have some healthy teeth, we may recommend partial dentures or bridges instead of full extractions. Preserving what’s healthy is always a priority.
Oral Function & Lifestyle
We evaluate how your current condition affects your speech, chewing, and confidence. These functional indicators often guide whether we recommend dentures or alternatives.
Alternatives to Dentures: Know Your Options
We never push dentures if another solution is a better fit. Here’s how the main options compare:
Dental Implants
Best for: Patients with strong jawbone and good health
- Permanently anchored to the bone
- Feels and functions like natural teeth
- Higher initial cost but long-term value
Dental Bridges
Best for: Patients missing 1–3 teeth in one area
- Anchored to adjacent teeth
- More affordable than implants
- No surgery required
Implant-Supported Dentures
Best for: Patients needing full replacement with added stability
- Combines dentures with 2–6 implants
- More secure than traditional dentures
- Less invasive than a full mouth of implants
Partial Dentures
Best for: Patients with some healthy teeth remaining
- Fills gaps while preserving existing teeth
- Removable and affordable
- Modern materials offer comfort and aesthetics
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Cost depends on the type, materials, and whether extra procedures (like extractions or bone grafting) are needed.
| Type | Estimated Cost Range |
| Full Dentures | $1,000 – $3,000 per arch |
| Partial Dentures | $700 – $2,500 |
| Immediate Dentures | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| Implant-Supported Dentures | $4,000 – $30,000 |
We’ll always provide a full cost breakdown during your consultation, including what insurance may cover.
How to Care for Dentures
Once you have dentures, daily care is essential for comfort and longevity.
Tips for Long-Term Success:
- Clean dentures daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner
- Rinse after meals
- Soak them overnight in a denture-safe solution
- Visit us regularly for fit checks and oral exams
- Never use hot water, which can warp them
Most dentures last 5–10 years, but good care can extend their lifespan and maintain a healthy mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I still get dentures if I have some teeth left?
Yes, partial dentures are made specifically for patients with remaining healthy teeth. We design them to fit around your natural teeth for a comfortable, functional solution.
Do dentures hurt?
No, dentures should not hurt once properly fitted. Some initial soreness is normal, but we make adjustments to ensure comfort during the transition.
Are dentures covered by insurance?
In most cases, yes. Many dental insurance plans partially cover dentures. We’ll review your coverage and financing options during your visit.
Take the Next Step: Schedule Your Denture Evaluation
If you’ve noticed several signs mentioned above, or scored high on a who needs dentures quiz, it’s time to take action. At Waterfront Dental, we make the process simple, stress-free, and fully personalized.
- Comprehensive exams
- Custom treatment plans
- Transparent pricing and payment options
- Focused on comfort, aesthetics, and confidence
Call today or contact us online to schedule your denture consultation in South Baltimore and Downtown Baltimore. We’re here to restore your smile and help you feel like yourself again.