10 Outdated Denture Myths Debunked

While dentures are an excellent solution for people who suffer from tooth loss, there is a stigma associated with these dental prosthetics. Unfortunately, many of these misconceptions keep some patients from choosing the best option for their needs. Dentures can restore the aesthetic appearance and function of your smile while enhancing your overall oral health.

To help you make the most informed decisions, our Las Vegas cosmetic dentists clear up confusion surrounding dentures by debunking these common myths.

1. Dentures Look Obvious or Fake

Dentures have come a long way from where they first started. In recent years, advances in dental technology and materials have made dentures look more natural than ever.

Made with acrylic resin, porcelain, or composite, dentures are designed to look just like real teeth. Even if you have partial dentures, they match the size and shape of your natural teeth, making it nearly impossible for others to tell that you are wearing them.

2. Only Older Adults Use Dentures

Older individuals were often depicted in movies or TV shows as exaggerated characters with poorly fitting dentures, adding to the myth that dentures are only for seniors. However, dentures can help adults of any age with significant tooth loss or damage.

Although age-related issues can cause tooth loss, it can also be connected to genetic disorders, accidents, or advanced gum disease that affect people at different ages.

3. Dentures Are Uncomfortable

Another myth is that dentures are uncomfortable or painful to wear. The truth is that quality dentures are customized to fit the shape of your mouth. While there may be an adjustment period after first getting your dentures, you should not experience irritation or discomfort after that.

4. Dentures Always Fall Out

Despite what you might think, dentures do not easily fall out if fitted correctly and in good condition. An experienced cosmetic dentist will carefully fit your dentures to ensure they are not loose. Additionally, your dentist will help you stay on top of your oral health, which is vital to keep dentures fitting properly.

Dentures may also become loose if:

● They are exposed to extreme heat

● The lining is worn down

● They are dropped or broken

● Hard or sticky foods cause damage

Dentures can also be supported by dental implants for additional stability. More and more patients are opting for this increased stability. If you notice your dentures are feeling loose, contact your dentist right away to identify and correct the issue.

5. It is Hard to Eat with Dentures

Rather than making it more challenging to eat, dentures actually improve biting, chewing, and other functionality. It can take a few weeks to adjust to eating with dentures, but it will become easier with time.

However, you must take care of your dentures and follow your dentist’s guidelines to help you get used to them, such as:

● Starting with softer foods that need less chewing

● Taking smaller bites or cutting up your food

● Chewing slowly on both sides of the mouth

● Avoiding certain foods that can damage your dentures

After the adjustment period, you will find that you can eat just about anything without difficulty.

6. You Have to Lose All Your Teeth to Get Dentures

While complete dentures are an option for people who have lost all their teeth on the upper or lower jaw, you may still be a good candidate for dentures if you have some teeth. Partial dentures only replace your missing teeth while anchoring to natural teeth, helping them stay in place.

7. Dentures Are Too Expensive

If you are looking for cosmetic treatments to replace missing teeth, dentures are far from the most expensive. In fact, dentures can be one of the more affordable options, depending on the type and materials used to make them.

For example, partial dentures are typically less expensive than full dentures, and a basic set is more reasonable than a premium porcelain set. Additionally, your insurance may cover some of the cost. Ask your dentist about the different options that suit your needs and budget.

8. Dentures Give You Bad Breath

Just like natural teeth, dentures need proper maintenance with consistent oral hygiene. If you take care of your dentures and keep your mouth clean and healthy, you will not have to worry about bad breath. It is a matter of staying on top of the routine and replacing old dentures when it is time to do so.

Denture wearers who struggle with bad breath should see their dentist. There may be plaque and bacteria buildup on their dentures that are causing bad breath. It is also important to catch gum disease or other issues early for easier treatment.

9. Dentures Last Forever

Although dentures are durable and can last for several years, they will eventually need to be replaced. However, different types of dentures have varying longevity.

While complete and partial dentures will last at least five years, permanent or implant-supported dentures can last for decades. Properly caring for your dentures and seeing your dentist regularly can also help dentures last longer.

10. Dentures Are Only Cosmetic

Dentures have many cosmetic benefits, including a radiant and full smile, but there are other advantages to these dental prosthetics. Firstly, they provide better functionality, including:

● Biting

● Chewing

● Speaking

Secondly, dentures also have health benefits. They promote better gum health and oral hygiene, which can help you avoid further tooth loss. Also, they can improve overall nutrition because they make it easier to eat different types of foods.

Thirdly, dentures help maintain your facial structure and prevent the cheeks from sagging or sinking into the mouth. The pressure applied to the jaw from the dentures can help keep the bone healthy and your face looking fuller.

Lastly, dentures can give patients a significant confidence boost. After hiding their smiles and feeling embarrassed to eat or speak in front of others, people with missing teeth can show off their new smiles with a beautiful set of dentures.

Speak With a Denture Specialist in Las Vegas

Looking for quality dentures in Las Vegas? Our team has you covered! At Las Vegas Aesthetic Dentistry, we offer several types of dentures that can give you the smile you have always wanted. Contact our team to learn more about our cosmetic services or to schedule a denture consultation with Dr. Tati.

denturesTatevik PilosyanNovember 25, 2024denture myths