Dentures are the tried-and-true way to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality after tooth loss because of their many benefits. But did you know that, according to the American College of Prosthodontists, an estimated 90% of people without teeth wear them?
Despite the large number of patients sporting these prosthetics, several falsehoods are still being shared about them. Continue reading to learn more about three myths around this versatile treatment and why you shouldn’t believe them!
Myth #1: I Don’t Need to See My Dentist Anymore
Many people think of their dentist as the caregiver to their teeth and assume that if they don’t have any pearly whites left, that they no longer need to schedule regular appointments. Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth! Even without teeth, your connective tissues can develop gum disease that can spread to your jawbone and cause decay if it goes unaddressed.
Because your prosthetics are pressed against your gums all day, it increases the likelihood of developing this condition. Seeing your dentist for a routine visit every six months allows them to monitor your mouth to spot and address any areas of concern before they can progress into more serious problems.
Myth #2: The Cheapest Option is Best for Me
When it comes to dental work, the quality of a product is typically reflected in its price. While you may feel tempted to select the most cost-effective materials and methods when designing your dentures, you might pay for it later.
For example, your restoration needs to fit like a glove to remain in place all day, and a cheaper design is less likely to stay put. That means it’s more likely to be ill-fitting and need to be frequently relined, which can add up. Plus, it could fall out of your mouth and break in the process. Investing in a well-made product now can protect your grin in the long run.
Myth #3: I Can Wear Them 24/7
It typically takes about a month for your mouth to fully adjust to the added pressure of supporting your dentures all day. Then, once you’re accustomed to them, you might feel so comfortable wearing them that you don’t want to deal with the hassle of removing and reinserting them for cleanings or sleeping at night.
While it can be tempting to drop into bed with your new teeth still in place, doing so increases the likelihood of developing gum disease because your mouth produces less saliva at night. The drier conditions encourage bacteria to thrive, resulting in plaque buildup that can cause problems. To keep your restoration and your mouth healthy, it’s recommended that you leave them in a glass of water or a soaking solution to kill off germs while you rest.
If you’re still unsure whether dentures are the right treatment for you, the best way to find out for certain is to consult your dentist!
About the Practice
At Mason Dental PC, you benefit from a team of dentists with 20+ years of combined experience helping people build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. They work together to offer a full array of services at one convenient location. Plus, they’re members of prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association, so you know you’re receiving care you can trust. They combine a gentle and compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to deliver the most up-to-date services for accurate results. If you’re considering dentures, you can request an appointment on the website or call (802) 362-1099.