Don’t Believe These Denture Myths
About 90% of people without teeth wear dentures. They’re an effective, economical, and attractive way to replace lost teeth. Unfortunately, people have many misconceptions about dentures. Here are a few of these myths and the actual truth you should know.
Myth: I have to choose dentures or dental implants.
Truth: Dentures and dental implants are often represented as alternative tooth replacement strategies, but the truth is that if you get dental implants you will likely have a denture placed on top of them. These dentures may be removable or permanently fixed in place.
Myth: Once I have dentures, I can’t get dental implants.
Truth: If you want dental implants, it’s best to get them right away, but even if you’ve had dentures for years, we may be able to put in dental implants.
Myth: Once I have dentures, I won’t need to see the dentist.
Truth: You won’t need to see the dentist as often after you get dentures, but you should still see the dentist once a year to make sure your gums are healthy and your dentures fit properly.
Myth: Dentures are all the same, so cheapest is best.
Truth: As with so many things, when it comes to dentures you get what you pay for. Cheap dentures tend to look cheap, fit poorly, and function badly. You will likely have a much worse denture experience if you buy cheap dentures.
Myth: Everyone will know I have dentures.
Truth: Although cheap dentures are easy to spot, quality dentures can look a lot like your natural teeth—or better. Nobody needs to know that you have dentures.
Myth: Dentures always fall out when I eat or talk.
Truth: Cheap dentures are prone to falling out when you eat or talk, but not all dentures do. If you get quality dentures and get them checked regularly, you will find they stay in place very well.
Myth: I won’t be able to eat my favorite foods with dentures.
Truth: Eating with dentures takes a little bit of practice, but once you learn how, you will be delighted with the range of foods that you can enjoy.
Myth: Dentures only stay in if you “glue” them.
Truth: Properly fitting dentures don’t need adhesive to stay in place, though it may still be recommended to help create a seal under the dentures to prevent food and drink from getting between the dentures and the gums.
Myth: Dentures will make me smell bad.
Truth: The causes of denture odor are the same as the causes of bad breath: bacteria growing in the mouth that are allowed to multiply because they are not regularly removed through proper hygiene. Clean dentures thoroughly and soak them overnight, and you won’t smell.
If you’ve been told stories about what dentures are like, don’t believe hearsay. Instead, learn for yourself what properly-fitting dentures can do for you. Please contact Ascent Dental in the Cherry Creek area of Denver today.