Common Myths About Dentures Debunked

According to 2020 data, just under 41 million Americans have dentures. When put into a percentage of the US population (the survey estimated a population of 332.64 million Americans), that comes out to about 12% of all Americans using some form of dentures. Can you believe that 1 in 10 Americans has some form of false teeth? Considering the fit and look of modern dentures, it’s not so far-fetched to think that you actually might not notice if someone is wearing them. 

Despite their heavy usage, dentures have been stereotyped as only for the elderly and are subjected to a lot of myths because of this stigma. In looking at four common myths about dentures, you might be surprised to learn what today’s dentures are really like. 

Are you interested in getting dentures to replace missing or damaged teeth? If so, come see the team at Mark Kramer, DDS in Tustin, California. Dr. Kramer and his team are proud of their patient-centric focus and the exceptional results their patients see. In this blog, Dr. Kramer debunks some of the most common myths about dentures and explains the truth behind so many Americans’ smiles. 

Myth 1: Dentures don’t look like real teeth

High-quality dentures can look exactly like real teeth and can even improve your smile. A series of impressions is done on your mouth to measure its dimensions and how your jaws relate to one another. Models are then made as a starting point, with adjustments made to the shape, color, and final fit of the dentures. A good set of dentures will match your gum color to conceal any obvious bottom or top of the denture, making for a seamless fit. If you currently have many missing teeth, dentures may give you a little bit more lift in your cheeks, as the area will have more support.  

Myth 2: Dentures slide around your mouth

Traditional dentures stay in place either through suction or an adhesive paste. High-quality dentures that are an exact fit with your gumline tend to form the best seal and are the least likely to fall out. Those who don’t want to depend on suction or adhesive paste can opt for implant-supported dentures, which connect directly to your jawbone with a few dental implants. Implant-supported dentures feel very secure and can help your oral health by keeping your jawbone stimulated via the implant posts. 

Myth 3: Dentures replace a full arch of teeth

You don’t need to have a full arch of teeth missing to get dentures. If you have a few missing teeth, partial dentures may be a good option for you. Partial dentures replace missing teeth that are grouped together or have similar locations. They have the same gum-colored base as complete (full arch) dentures, but attach to your healthy teeth to keep them in place. 

Myth 4: Dentures restrict your diet

Depending on how many teeth you are missing, dentures may actually increase your food options. Although you shouldn’t eat excessively sticky foods, like caramel candies, with dentures, most foods are available to you. You should start with softer foods, and may need to change the way you chew to be more comfortable. Each person is different, so don’t expect to dive right into a tomahawk steak — you can test different foods and see how they feel. 

Many people also find that dentures help them speak and enunciate better. 

To learn more about dentures and find out if they are a good option to replace missing teeth, book an appointment online or over the phone with Mark Kramer, DDS today.