4 Debunked Myths About Dentures

If you have missing teeth, then you may be considering getting dentures. After all, these prosthetics could fill the gaps in your mouth and restore your smile! However, you might be hesitating due to rumors you’ve heard about the treatment. This gossip can sometimes make false teeth sound worse than the problems they’re meant to solve. The truth, though, is that almost none of it holds up. Here’s a summary of four debunked myths about dentures to prove it.

Myth 1: “All Dentures Are the Same”

On the contrary, this prosthetic comes in several varieties.

For example, dentures can be made of many different materials. Some are entirely plastic, while others have a plastic base material and ceramic teeth.

Their fitting procedures also vary. Your dentist could fit dentures to your gums or, on the other hand, to your mouth.

Myth 2: “They Fall Out When You Talk or Chew”

There are cheaper dentures that can fall out, but many others don’t. High-quality, properly-fitted ones will almost certainly stay in place in everyday situations.

Consider implant dentures. This type attaches to dental implants and often can’t be removed, even by you. Even when they are removable, they’re more tightly fastened than traditional dentures.

Myth 3: “They’re Unattractive”

Your smile will only look unattractive if you buy inferior dentures. These tend to use cheap materials and aren’t customized to complement your facial features. They use a cookie-cutter design instead and only customize the fit.

In contrast, high-quality dentures can give you beautiful pearly whites. Some rely on neuromuscular principles that enhance both your teeth and your face. As a result, they give you plumper cheeks, fewer mouth wrinkles, and less loose skin on your neck.

Myth 4: “They Make People Smell Bad”

While dentures can sometimes smell bad, that isn’t one of the prosthetic’s core traits. The odors in question are caused by poor oral hygiene. As such, proper denture care can end the problem.

Still, some dentures are more likely to pick up smells. Inexpensive models, especially, have porous plastic that absorbs smells in your mouth. Consequently, foul odors can stick to your false teeth that can’t be removed with at-home methods.

As you can see, many negative claims surrounding dentures just aren’t valid. That said, talk to your dentist to see if a pair could help in your own life.

About the Author

Dr. Terry F. Rakowsky is a dentist based in Doylestown, PA, having earned his dental doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine. Over his 35-year career, he’s gained superior dental expertise. To that end, he provides patients with preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency procedures. He currently practices at his self-titled clinic and can be reached at his website or by phone at (215)-348-2224.