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Common myths can be sticky beasts, persisting long after any truth they might have carried has ceased to be valid, if it ever was. In this article, we attempt to debunk some of the common myths about dentures. We'll begin with that old idea that once you have dentures, you will have to forgo eating your favourite foods. Like many of the myths we discuss here, this one may have carried some truth back in the distant past when people didn’t have the benefits of sophisticated science that is dental technology today. Thankfully, things have changed somewhat since then. In addition to the physical adjustments a new denture wearer must make to enable a smooth transition, being aware of the psychological adjustments needed can help the transition.
Myth 1. You'll never eat your favourite foods again
With a well-fitting, quality denture there is no reason you can’t enjoy your favourite foods. Initially, you need to be prepared for an adjustment period to become accustomed to wearing a denture. Because the muscles in your mouth and tongue function to retain your denture and keep it stable in your mouth, essential for chewing,i time and practise must be allowed for the muscle learning needed to accommodate the new way of eating. Adjusting to a denture also affects how your tongue and lips interact, so you can expect a few mishaps, but be assured, you will soon get the hang of it. How you prepare your food can sidestep having to avoid certain foods altogether with the only exception being excessively hard or sticky foods, like toffee. Begin with softer foods before progressing to foods requiring more chewing. If you love steak for example, then choosing tender cuts, or ways of cooking that tenderise the meat or cutting it into small pieces can minimise the need for vigorous chewing. See here for ideas on food preparation ‘Top ten denture friendly foods you didn’t know you could enjoy’.
Myth 2. Dentures are obvious and everyone will notice: Modern denture aesthetics
Imagine for a moment you are in a busy shopping mall. Look closely at the people around you. While statistics are a little fuzzy, it’s thought that as many as one in five, or approximately 19% of the population wear some form of dental prosthetic. And realistically, it’s probably only the bad or old dentures you can pick. Modern technology produces natural-looking, high functioning replacements for lost teeth, from removable full and partial dentures to different kinds of implants which are anchored into your jawbone.
Myth 3. All dentures look the same: Understanding custom design options
Dentures are highly customisable. Like most purchases you make, the more you spend the more options you have. Your prosthetist will make recommendations based on your clinical needs, your unique oral topography, bite patterns, jaw alignment etc. They will advise on aspects of comfort and aesthetics, helping you understand the pros and cons of base materials, teeth selection and longevity factors and what best suits your face shape and your budget. But ultimately the choice will be yours. Consider the advice they offer carefully and don’t hesitate to draw on their expertise and knowledge before making a decision.
Myth 4. Once you get dentures, you're stuck with them forever: The reality of denture maintenance and replacement
Dentures, like everything else wear out and need to be replaced. The good thing about that is with each update you will have the opportunity of advancements made since you purchased your old one. The new replacement denture may be even better than the last. Armed with experience you will have a better idea of which options will suit you more when you go to replace your old denture. As for maintenance, whether natural teeth or prosthetic teeth – both need to be maintained and cared for. Depending on the type of denture you choose and how hard you are on your denture you can expect to get around 5 years from a removeable denture.
Myth 5. Dentures are only for the elderly: Why people of all ages may need dentures
This is a common misperception. While it is true older people are a majority in denture wearers, due to accidents, illness and other factors, young people need dentures too. Partial dentures are more common among the younger demographic. However, due to better oral health and modern dental practices, older people are retaining their natural teeth for longer.
Myth 6. You won't be able to kiss or be intimate: Debunking social life myths
There is no reason intimate relations denture wearers experience should be any different to those with natural teeth. Well-fitting dentures stay in place during kissing. Doubts denture wearers might have about intimacy and their dentures may largely be issues of confidence. What to do with the denture overnight for example. If you are in a new relationship and don’t wish to remove your dentures overnight to avoid embarrassment, there is no harm leaving them in. Oral hygiene is essential of course, but that’s also the case with natural teeth as well. Nothing is a bigger turn off than breathing a gust of stinky breath over the object of your desire.
Myth 7. Dentures mean the end of dental care: Why oral hygiene still matters
Dentures replace missing teeth but there is more to your oral environment than just teeth. Keeping your mouth and gum tissues healthy is crucial to your overall health and healthy ageing.ii So although you may have replaced natural teeth with a denture, keeping your mouth and gums in top condition, free of gum disease gives your denture adequate healthy gum tissue to rest on, so essential for denture stability and fit. Practising good denture maintenance and hygiene protects not just your health but also your pocket by ensuring the optimal longevity of your denture. See here for a dental hygiene regime.
Myth 8. You can't play sports or exercise with dentures: Active living with dentures
Having a denture doesn’t mean giving up on the activities you love. While there may be an adjustment period while you are getting used to dentures, well-fitting dentures do not easily dislodge during normal sporting activities. However, high impact blows to the face or body, may dislodge even a well-fitting denture. If you’re into boxing for example it would be wise to remove your denture before you enter the ring. A chat to your prosthetist about the demands of your particular sport may help resolve this concern. A customised mouthguard may suit those with partial dentures or implants, while for those with removeable full dentures, having a protective case in which to stow your denture while participating might be the best option.
Myth 9. Denture adhesives are always necessary: The facts about denture fit and security
Well-made, snugly fitting dentures should not need denture adhesive. That said, there are exceptions. Those wearers with alveolar ridge differences may find denture adhesive improves retention and their ability to talk, chew, eat with ease.iii Denture adhesive can give confidence to new denture wearers who value the extra security denture adhesive offers until they develop the muscle and tongue dexterity needed to hold the denture in place. Dentures fitted immediately upon having teeth extracted (immediate dentures) will eventually become loose and need relining to restore fit. Denture adhesive serves to stabilise in the interim.
Myth 10. Getting used to a denture takes months
Every denture wearer is unique in their expectations, healing capacity, tolerance for change, and their willingness to persist. It follows therefore, the amount of time taken adapting to a denture is not universal. With no other extenuating circumstances, you could reasonably expect to feel comfortable with a new denture within two to four weeks if worn consistently and your prosthetist’s instructions are followed. However, depending on your circumstances and how much effort you put in, it can take longer. See here for tips on adjusting to new dentures [How to get used to new dentures].
A final word
Myths are widely held beliefs with little or no real substance. And yet they can persist. Myths about dentures can adversely affect your quality of life, as you can see having read the article above. The antidote to this is staying informed through reputable sources. Ask questions of your prosthetist. While not every denture wearer’s experience is the same, your prosthetist is at the coal face, having seen most denture anomalies. They are in possession of the latest research and technological advances and are only too willing to help.
If you're experiencing challenges with your new dentures, remember that adjustment takes time. Our article What to do when you're not happy with your new dentures provides practical steps to address common concerns. And remember, you're not alone in this journey - connecting with others through a denture support group can provide both practical advice and emotional support from those who understand exactly what you're experiencing.
References
i Hisashi Koshino, Toshihiro Hirai, Tsutomu Ishijima, Yasuhiro Ikeda, Tongue motor skills and masticatory performance in adult dentates, elderly dentates, and complete denture wearers, The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, Volume 77, Issue 2, 1997,
Pages 147-152, ISSN 0022-3913,
ii Hajishengallis, G., & Chavakis, T. (2021). Local and systemic mechanisms linking periodontal disease and inflammatory comorbidities. Nature Reviews Immunology, 21(7), 426-440.
iii Shamsolketabi S, Nili M. The effect of denture adhesive on the efficiency of complete denture in patients with different alveolar ridges. Dent Res J (Isfahan). 2018 Jul-Aug;15(4):271-275. PMID: 30123304; PMCID: PMC6073946.
Disclaimer – Always consult your oral health professional for expert advice about your unique personal situation. The information given here is of a general nature and for the purpose of education only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your oral health specialist
Northern Rivers Denture Clinic is located in the heart of Tweed Heads, southern Gold Coast. Finally have the smile you deserve with handcrafted, quality dentures.
