There are many misconceptions about dentures, and here are two of the most common:

1. Even the best dentures don’t last forever. It’s true that dentures are made of very hard and durable materials, but like eyeglasses and other prosthetic or assistive devices, they eventually wear out. They can also break if dropped. Even with the best care, dentures may change in appearance though the years and may take on an undesirable look.
Additionally, your gums and jawbone could shrink, causing the dentures that fit perfectly today to no longer fit very well at all. Repeated relines and other procedures can prolong the life of dentures, but nothing lasts forever.

2. Denture wearers still need regular dental visits. Even if you have no teeth at all, you could still have oral health issues. A dentist can assess your overall oral health condition, and this needs to be done twice a year. This assessment includes a vitally important oral health screening and a check for other diseases that may first show up in the mouth.

Also, changes in your face or jaw over time can cause fit problems with your dentures and even lead to irritations or infections. Some medications can cause the growth or enlargement of gum tissue, requiring that the mouth be carefully monitored. A dentist can check your medical history and help keep your mouth healthy while also cleaning tartar and staining from your dentures.

In addition, you may not know that dentures really can look like natural teeth when they’re well made and fit right. One thing that can help make dentures fit well and therefore look good is supporting them with today’s thin implants, which can dramatically increase retention and stability.

Could new dentures supported by the most modern implant procedures available today be the solution for your missing teeth or the right replacement for your old dentures?