There are tons of myths about dentures. However, the key word in that sentence is “myths.” Most of what you’ve probably heard about dentures is untrue. Read on as we separate fact from fiction on this subject.
1. Dentures Mean You Can Stop Worrying About Dental Hygiene.
As your dentist, we will never, ever tell you there’s a time in your life you can stop worrying about dental hygiene. Denture wearing is no different!
We recommend that denture wearers remove their dentures daily, so they can be soaked and cleaned overnight. Denture patients should then gently wipe their gums with a moist washcloth to remove bacteria—this will help keep mouth tissues healthy.
2. Dentures Last Forever.
Unfortunately, dentures do not last forever. Generally speaking, you can expect to get a minimum of 5-7 years from your dentures. Some patients may be able to get 10 years or more.
However, you should plan to come to one of our Columbus offices once a year to have your dentures evaluated for wear and fit. Over time, they can fracture, deteriorate, or loosen. During your appointment, we can see how your dentures are holding up and determine whether they need to be fixed or replaced.
3. Dentures Change the Appearance of Your Smile.
When we create your dentures, we carefully match them to the remaining teeth in your mouth so they look very natural. So, although your teeth won’t look any different, your smile may subtly change.
The reason your smile may look slightly different is missing teeth make facial sagging more apparent. Once dentures are in place, this sagging is reduced. Bottom line? Should your appearance change, the improvements will be subtle and desirable.
4. Denture Patients Are Elderly.
While most elderly patients wear dentures, there are many young denture wearers. As people age, they’re more likely to need dentures.
Consider the denture-wearing statistics—3% of Americans between the ages of 18-34 wear complete or partial dentures, 16% of 35-44-year-olds wear them, 29% of 45-to-55-year-olds wear dentures, 51% of those aged 55 to 64 wear them, and 57% of Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 have dentures. Interestingly enough, women are more likely to wear dentures than men (24% vs. 19%).
5. It’s Difficult to Eat with Dentures.
Admittedly, dentures do take some time getting used to. However, once the initial adjustment period is over, denture patients should be able to eat the same foods they once did.
It’s really just a matter of making sure dentures are well-fitting, starting off with small bites of soft food, and gradually working your way up to include other foods. Although this process takes some practice, most denture patients learn to eat comfortably.
How Can I Schedule a Dental Appointment to Discuss Dentures?
It’s easy to schedule your denture appointment at Murray Hill Dental. Simply fill out our online form or give us a call.
To reach our N. Murray Hill Road office servicing the Western Columbus area, please contact 614-878-1188. To reach our Northern location in Westerville, call 614-890-5022.
