Dentures are one of the most popular methods for tooth replacement, and it’s easy to see why—they can fill all the holes in your smile, giving you the look you’ve been missing since you lost your teeth.
However, many people are turned off by dentures because they have some incorrect ideas about them. If you’re curious about whether dentures could be the solution for you, here are some of the most common myths about them and why they aren’t quite true.
Dentures Always Smell Bad
Dentures sometimes get a reputation for having a pretty bad smell, but in most cases that reputation isn’t earned—or rather, it’s not a problem with dentures. Your prosthetic can potentially smell bad, but so can your natural teeth for the very same reason: bacteria.
Just like your teeth, your dentures can collect bacteria if you don’t clean them often. This is especially true of cheaper dentures that tend to be made of considerably more porous plastic than more expensive prosthetics. If you don’t want your dentures to smell, you can take care of your dentures and not cheap out on your initial set.
Dentures Will Make You Look Old
This myth comes from a few places. The first is that dentures in general are associated with seniors, when the truth is that anyone who is missing teeth can benefit from them.
Then there are a few aesthetic issues that can come about as a result of poorly fitting dentures. Some dentures aren’t made large enough for people’s mouth, which can result in sagging skin that can make you look older. Some are also set too far back in the mouth, causing the same issue.
All of these problems come from getting dentures that don’t really fit your mouth very well. That’s why it’s important to get your dentures from a professional, and not to skimp out.
I’ll Need Denture Adhesive
Denture adhesive can offer your dentures a little bit of extra stability, but it’s by no means necessary. If your dentures fit well, they should be able to stick to your gums without it. In fact, if you found yourself overusing adhesive, it would be a sign that your dentures need to be relined.
About the Author
Dr. Shelly Strohman has been providing members of her community with high-quality dental care for over 13 years, and to this day there’s nothing she loves more! She received her dental degree from the UMKC School of Dentistry. She is currently a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Texhoma Christian Care Center Board of Directors.
If you have any questions about dentures, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (940) 613-0299.