Dentures have helped millions of people regain their smiles after tooth loss. These removable replacements for missing teeth can boost your confidence and improve your quality of life in countless ways. They help with everything from proper chewing to maintaining facial structure, making them a valuable solution for many dental patients.
Despite their benefits, dentures come with their fair share of myths and misconceptions. Some folks believe they’re uncomfortable, look fake, or don’t work well for eating. Others worry about maintenance or think they’re only for older adults. These misunderstandings can prevent people from considering a solution that might significantly improve their daily life and health.
So, how about we clear these up for you? It’s time to take these 7 myths out of your head and clear the way for a better smile!
Myth #1: Dentures Look Fake and Unnatural
Many people avoid dentures because they worry their smile will look artificial. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Modern dentistry has made incredible advances in denture technology and materials. Today’s dentures are custom-crafted to match your natural tooth color, size, and shape. The pink base portion is carefully matched to your gum tissue color for a seamless look. Most people won’t even notice you’re wearing dentures unless you tell them. They can even help restore your facial structure so you can get back to looking like yourself.
Myth #2: Dentures Are Only for Elderly People
This is one of the most persistent myths in dentistry. The truth is that tooth loss can happen at any age due to accidents, injury, decay, or gum disease. Young and middle-aged adults may need dentures following sports injuries or car accidents, or even as a result of health conditions that affect tooth stability. Partial dentures might be recommended even for younger patients who’ve lost several teeth but still have healthy remaining teeth. Age never determines who can benefit from dentures—your oral health needs do.
Myth #3: You Can’t Eat Normally With Dentures
While there’s an adjustment period when you first get dentures, you’ll soon be able to enjoy most foods again. Your chewing efficiency might not match natural teeth exactly, but most denture wearers adapt quickly. You may need to cut food into smaller pieces initially and avoid extremely sticky or hard foods that could dislodge your dentures. With practice, your jaw muscles learn to work with dentures for comfortable eating. You may be able to eat apples, corn on the cob, and other foods you thought you’d have to give up forever!
Myth #4: Dentures Don’t Need Any Maintenance
Like natural teeth, dentures require daily care to stay clean and functional. Without proper cleaning, dentures can harbor bacteria that cause bad breath, gum irritation, and even oral infections. You’ll need to brush your dentures daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner (not regular toothpaste, which can be too abrasive). Soaking them overnight helps remove stains and bacteria. Your mouth still needs attention, too—brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining teeth daily. Regular dental checkups remain important to monitor your oral health and ensure your dentures still fit properly as your mouth naturally changes over time.
Myth #5: Once You Get Dentures, You’ll Never Need to Replace Them
Dentures aren’t permanent one-time solutions. As you age, your jawbone and gum tissue naturally change shape, especially after tooth loss. This gradual bone resorption means dentures that fit perfectly today may become loose over time. Most dentures need to be relined every few years to improve fit and comfort. Complete replacement is typically recommended every 5-10 years, depending on wear and changes in your mouth. Think of dentures as an ongoing part of your health care, not a one-time fix.
Myth #6: Dentures Will Solve All Oral Health Problems
While dentures replace missing teeth, they’re not magic solutions for all dental issues. Your gums, remaining teeth, and jawbone still need attention and care. Without teeth to stimulate the jawbone, bone loss can continue even with dentures. This can lead to changes in facial structure and denture fit over time. Proper oral hygiene remains essential—gum disease can still develop under dentures, especially if they fit poorly. Some patients might benefit from considering options like dental implants that help preserve bone. Your complete oral health picture is important, not just replacing missing teeth.
Myth #7: Adhesives Are Always Needed and Messy
When properly fitted, modern dentures often don’t require adhesives. The natural suction between your dentures and gums can provide sufficient stability for daily activities. However, some prefer using adhesives for extra security, especially when eating challenging foods or speaking publicly. If you’re constantly relying on adhesives to keep dentures in place, it might signal that they need adjustment or replacement.
Today’s adhesives are far less messy than products from decades ago. Many come in precise applicators that allow you to use just the right amount without excess. The key is finding what works for your comfort level and lifestyle.
Ignore Those Myths. Dentures Are Great!
Don’t let these myths stop you from enjoying the benefits of a full smile. If tooth loss has been holding you back from eating your favorite foods or smiling confidently in photos, now’s the time to consider dentures!
Center City Emergency Dentist proudly provides high-quality dentures and other missing teeth replacement solutions, including implants, crowns, and bridges. We work with each patient to find the right option for their unique situation. What’s been stopping you from addressing your tooth loss concerns?