Dentures have been around for centuries in some form or another. Today’s dentures are more comfortable, natural-looking, and useful than ever. But still, despite their many impressive features, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about them. Here are a few common myths and the real truth about these timeless prosthetics.
Myth #1: They Look Fake
When it comes to your dentures, you get what you pay for. They can range in price from as low as $200 to as high as $4,000. Generally, the more you spend, the more realistic they look. Lower cost typically translates to inferior quality, and often that can show in your smile. For a more durable, realistic looking prosthetic, it pays to invest in a nicer pair.
Myth #2: They Won’t Stay Put in Your Mouth
Brand new dentures are customized to fit your mouth perfectly. While it may take a few weeks to get used to wearing them, they should eventually be snug and secure even when you eat or speak. This fit should last for several years but can loosen over time. This is because your jaw bones and tissues change shape as you get older. Should this happen, your dentures may require a reline or a complete replacement, as they are only intended to last between five and ten years.
Myth #3: You Can Wear Them 24/7
While it may be tempting to wear your dentures round the clock, this is a bad idea for many reasons. First, they need to stay hydrated to prevent damage. While they are typically moistened by your saliva during the day, your mouth can dry out while you sleep. Thus, it is important to keep them in a glass of water or denture soak overnight. You should also be removing for a deep cleaning at least twice a day and should not brushing them in your mouth. Finally, wearing them constantly has been found to accelerate jawbone degradation, making it difficult for them to fit properly, and possibly resulting in the need for a bone graft procedure! Thus, always remove your dentures to clean them properly, and overnight to let your mouth rest and your dentures stay hydrated.
Myth #4: You Don’t Need to See the Dentist Anymore
If you have no real teeth, you shouldn’t need to visit your dentist anymore, right? Wrong. Just because you have false teeth doesn’t mean you don’t need to maintain your oral health. Many problems could still occur without proper maintenance, including gum disease, jawbone deterioration, and even oral cancer. When you skip your dental exams, you could easily miss important warning signs that could save your life.
Additionally, your dentist should also be monitoring the health of your dentures. A proper fit is essential to them working correctly. If any problems are spotted at your appointment, your dentist can either repair them or recommend a replacement.
Myth #5: You Can Eat Fine Without Dentures
If you are already missing teeth, or have damaged teeth, you may already be used to eating under these conditions. Whether you are avoiding chewing on one side of your mouth, or you are skipping entire foods or food groups because they are too difficult to chew, this is not good for your overall health. When you don’t have a full set of teeth, your nutrition can suffer. Additionally, the inability to properly break down your food can increase your risk of acid reflux, which can prevent you from sleeping and can even damage your stomach and esophagus. Thus, for the sake of your overall health, you should always restore lost or damaged teeth.
Remember, myths are fun for campfires and bedtime stories, but not when it comes to your health. Don’t let misinformation about dentures stop you from living a better life. Speak to your dentist today and see if they’re right for you!
About Our Practice
At Baldwin Family Dental, we believe in treating patients with compassion and kindness, and never judgement. If you are missing one or more teeth and are ready to restore you smile and enjoy the many benefits of dentures, schedule a consultation with us today. We can examine your mouth and help explain your replacement options, including any treatment needed to get your mouth ready for prosthetics.
To get started, please make an appointment on our website or call us at 850-215-0128.