Myths and Misconceptions About Dentures: Debunking the Tropes

Dentures are one of the best solutions for individuals with tooth loss,  but sadly, there are many myths and misconceptions about dentures. These misconceptions can create unnecessary anxiety and prevent people from exploring dentures as a viable option for restoring their smiles. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths about dentures:

Myth 1: Dentures Look Unnatural

In the past, dentures may have appeared fake or artificial because they were made from materials that didn’t quite mimic the appearance of real teeth. Nowadays, denture technology has increased dramatically. Dentures are designed and manufactured to look incredibly natural. Materials come in different shades and 3D printing allows for much more customization in the shapes and sizes so each denture can match each person’s natural teeth. When someone smiles with well made, modern dentures, it is hard to tell they’re not natural. Dental professionals can ask the patient to give them previous photographs of their smile and they can use those to find a perfect match for the teeth. DentKits allows you to choose your shade and shape for their dentures, ensuring a beautiful and natural smile.

Myth 2: Dentures are Only for the Elderly

According to denture studies of the U.S population, over 120 million people are missing at least one tooth. 7% of people aged 20 or older are missing all their permanent teeth. Over 2% of those 20-54 are missing all of their teeth and those missing at least one tooth in the same age range are substantially higher.  While it is true that edentulism and missing teeth is a more common problem for seniors, it is untrue that it is only a problem for seniors. Seniors may indeed need dentures because they have lost their natural teeth over time. But Dentures are for anyone who’s lost their teeth, no matter their age. People lose their teeth because of things like accidents, dental problems, or health conditions. Other individuals may have genetic conditions that predispose them to dental issues, such as malformed or missing teeth. Dentures can provide a viable option for improving oral health and appearance in these cases, regardless of age. Stigmatizing the solution to missing teeth (dentures) by proclaiming it is for seniors only keeps those who are young and could benefit from treatment. Dentures can provide a practical and effective solution for tooth loss and contribute to better oral health and quality of life at any age. DentKits makes nesbits, flippers, partials and full dentures for those over 18 years of age. Doing the process from home can help remove the stigma and anxiety of going to a dental office.

Myth 3: Dentures Require No Maintenance

Let’s dispel this myth immediately, dentures do require a decent bit of maintenance. Just like natural teeth, dentures require cleaning, soaking and brushing. It is generally recommended to remove your dentures before bed time and soak your dentures overnight. In addition to this, it is important to clean your dentures daily to avoid any build up or bacteria. Dentists usually recommend using a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner to gently brush all surfaces of the dentures. Neglecting denture maintenance can lead to issues such as plaque buildup, staining, and bacterial growth. With time, dentures can wear down and lose their fit. It’s important to replace them when needed to maintain oral health and function.

Myth 4: Dentures Are Uncomfortable to Wear

Dentures are custom-made to fit snugly over the gums, providing a natural and comfortable feel. Modern denture materials are lightweight, durable, and designed to closely mimic the appearance and texture of natural teeth and gums. These advancements in materials contribute to greater comfort and a more natural feel when wearing dentures. It is true that ill-fitting, poorly made dentures can lack retention, cause sore spots and be generally uncomfortable. But you can avoid this by going with a reliable and well reviewed online denture provider.

Myth 5: Dentures Limit Food Choices

This myth falls somewhere along the lines of half true half false. Modern dentures are designed to replicate the natural chewing function as closely as possible. Although chewing may feel different initially, well-fitted dentures can still handle most types of foods, including meats, fruits, and vegetables. Some foods may require modifications in preparation to make them easier to eat with dentures and especially hard foods can damage your dentures. Cutting food into smaller pieces or choosing softer textures can enhance chewability. Ill functioning dentures don’t allow you to eat properly, proper functioning dentures should allow you to eat most foods.

Myth 7: Dentures Cause Speech Impediments

Lower dentures generally do not cause speech issues. But upper dentures cover the palate. If an upper denture is not well fitting, covering the palate can cause some speech impediments. This can be a temporary issue as the mouth adjusts to the presence of the dentures. Over time, most people adapt to wearing dentures and regain their normal speech patterns. Speech therapy exercises can help individuals overcome speech difficulties. These exercises focus on articulation, tongue placement, and breath control to enhance speech clarity and confidence. Denture materials and fabrication techniques have improved significantly, minimizing speech disturbances and maximizing comfort.

Myth 8: Dentures Can Harm Remaining Natural Teeth

It’s a misconception that denture teeth affect the remaining teeth and gums. Full or partial dentures are designed to replace missing teeth and sit on the gums or anchor to existing teeth using attachments. Dentures can help preserve the health of your remaining natural teeth by providing support to adjacent teeth and preventing them from shifting into the empty spaces left by missing teeth. Partial dentures can sometimes pull on teeth that they anchor to but generally, dentures are a major upgrade for your oral health. 

Myth 9: Dentures Are Expensive

It’s also a very common myth that denture is very expensive. Unfortunately, this is the one myth that is mostly true. According to the survey of dentists done by the ADA, dentists charge upwards of $2,000 plus per denture. This means a full set of dentures can run over $4,000. Implant supported dentures are even more, running over $30,000. It doesn’t take a genius to realize that that is indeed very expensive. But advancements in teledentistry and digital dentures allow online denture providers to fill this gap. 

DentKits uses an extensive dental network to prescribe every denture via an in-state, licensed dentist. They also use an in-house, U.S. based lab. No un-prescribed dentures, no foreign unregulated labs that are common among other online denture providers. You would think that would mean they are more expensive than other providers. But that would be a myth. DentKits is the cheapest online denture available. They do this while also providing the best aesthetics available by leveraging digital dentures. This is because they do not have to pay for a dental office, extensive staff,  insurance adjusters, or greedy executives. Come be a part of the future and get a beautiful smile with DentKits. Consider filing out our denture assessment form to see if we would be a good fit for your next pair of dentures.