Dentures are removable teeth which are used to replace missing or damaged teeth, making it easier to eat and talk, and creating a straight, healthy-looking smile. Dentures are usually associated with the elderly, but they're often recommended to young adults for a variety of reasons. If your teeth have been severely damaged by erosion or gum disease, or knocked out during an accident, then dentures may be the best treatment option.

Full dentures replace entire rows of teeth, while partial dentures are used to replace one or two missing teeth. Here are details on three dental problems which may result in the need for dentures.

You have gum disease

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth, which contains bacteria and harms your gums. When caught early, gum disease can usually be treated by improving oral hygiene. However, gum disease that is left untreated often leads to serious damage, including abscesses, loose or lost teeth, and damage to the bone and tissue in your mouth. When this happens, removing the damaged teeth and replacing them with dentures is often the best course of action.

With no natural teeth left, there's no risk of the plaque buildup, and your mouth will become healthy again. Good oral hygiene is still important, however, and dentures that aren't taken care of will need replacing quickly.

You suffer from severe tooth erosion from acid reflux

Acid reflux causes stomach acid to be pushed into the mouth, which can erode the teeth over time by removing their protective enamel coating. It can also cause chronic inflammation of the gums, which can lead to gum disease. Brushing regularly doesn't always help, as acid reflux throughout the day keeps the teeth almost constantly coated in acid. If your acid reflux hasn't responded to treatment and seems likely to be a lifelong issue, then dentures may be the best option. You'll be free from tooth pain and able to eat and talk easily, and your dentures won't be damaged by acid.

Your teeth were knocked out in an accident

Having teeth knocked out during an accident is a common reason for dentures to be recommended to young adults. Whether teeth were lost during a sports accident, fall, or car crash, being without teeth can be inconvenient and embarrassing. Having full or partial dentures fitted will restore your smile to its former glory and make eating easier. Dentists will often provide an "immediate" denture straight after an accident so you won't have to be without teeth while your permanent dentures are created.

False teeth aren't just for the elderly. There are many reasons you might need dentures as a young adult. Dentures can have a positive impact on your quality of life, making it easier to eat, talk, and smile. To learn more about dentures or dental implants, contact a local dentistry.