
Do you know what the most popular tooth replacement option is? It’s not dental implants – even though this newer technology is highly advanced. And it’s not dental bridges, either. That’s right: dentures are the go-to solution for patients with missing teeth. If this surprises you, it’s probably because of some misinformation that hasn’t exactly kept up with the times. Keep reading, and this post will lay out four denture facts that are up to date!
#1: Dentures Shouldn’t Smell Bad
Maybe you believe dentures inherently smell bad because of a personal experience, or maybe this thought is based on something you heard. Either way, dentures certainly aren’t supposed to smell bad! When they do, it’s usually because they’re not being cleaned properly. Leftover food particles and bacteria will produce foul odors pretty quickly if build up isn’t managed with daily care.
#2. Well-Fitting Dentures Stay in Place
One of the most common myths about dentures is that they constantly fall out of your mouth. While new denture wearers do sometimes go through an adjustment period, it’s not normal for this prosthetic to slip and slide all over the place. If you find yourself needing more and more denture adhesive just to keep them still, they probably don’t fit like they used to and need relined.
#3. Dentures Are Cost-Effective
Yes, dental work can be expensive. However, out of all the tooth replacement options, dentures are often the most cost-effective. It’s much more affordable to restore your smile with full or partial dentures than it is to fill every gap with a dental implant, for example. Even if you do want to involve dental implants in some way, you can always get an implant denture, which involves attaching a denture to about four dental implants for added stability, comfort, and chewing power.
#4. You’ll Have to Replace Them Eventually
Dentures aren’t a one-and-done type of treatment. Eventually, daily wear and tear will result in discoloration, chips, cracks, or even breakage. So if you notice that your dentures are looking a bit ragged, know that that’s perfectly normal – and that it’s time to call your dentist for an appointment!
The internet might make it much easier to do research and learn new things, but it’s still possible to stumble upon misinformation from time to time. That’s why it’s important to check-in with a professional when possible. In this case, your dentist would be happy to set the record straight and tell you more about dentures! Be sure to talk with them so you can make informed decisions about your smile.
About the Practice
At All Smiles Leesburg, we have three knowledgeable dentists and a skilled periodontist on-staff. As professionals that are always pursuing continuing education opportunities, they understand how important it is to get accurate information. If you have questions about dentures or other dental matters, they’ll gladly tell you everything they know! To contact our office, please call 703-777-4443.