Although dentures are not steeped in myths they do have their own share of myths. The problem is some of these myths scare people so much that they fear wearing dentures and hesitate to approach a dentist even when they are badly in need of replacements for missing natural teeth. The fact of the matter is that dentures are very much in use today and the number of wearers is only increasing, and the technology used to make dentures more comfortable is improving constantly.
Talking of Myths an Interesting Question Arises:
Who First Invented Dentures?
You’ll be surprised to learn that it was the Etruscans of northern Italy who first thought of the idea of creating dentures. It may be a detesting thought to realize that the first dentures were made of animal teeth (there was no synthetic material then). However, these first dentures that were made around 700BC were very much in use until the late 1800s. It was much later that modern materials got to be used and dentures became more stable and reliable.
Here Are Some Popular Myths Surrounding Dentures:
Fun Facts About False Teeth and False Myths
Although there are several myths about dentures there are also interesting facts about dentures that are reassuring for denture wearers. People with missing natural teeth should not hesitate walking into a dentist’s office to get a new set of dentures.
Here Are Some Popular Myths and Fun Facts About False Teeth:
Myth Number 1. Dentures Last a Lifetime
The fact is that dentures are made from tough plastic material, but they cannot last a lifetime. Accidentally dropping a denture can cause it to crack or break, making it totally useless. Moreover, even the most carefully preserved denture can become useless. This is not because of the faulty material but because of the changes that take place in the oral cavity. There can be resorption of the jaw bone and erosion of the gums due to some disease, which can alter the structure of the mouth. This can loosen the dentures, though they can be redone in a lab to suit your mouth. Dentures lasting a lifetime is only a myth.
Myth Number 2. Denture Wearers Have Problems Eating
This myth is only partially true, in the sense denture wearers have problems only when the dentures are new. Most of the denture wearers lead normal lives and can eat normal foods and smile as they used to always. Those wearing complete dentures need to avoid eating hard foodstuffs as it can dislodge the dentures and cause minor scratches. Partial dentures are fine and do not cause any problems. The trick likes in getting used to the dentures and maintaining them hygienically.
Myth Number 3. All Dentures Are of the Same Quality
This is certainly a myth and most people know it too. There are low cost dentures that serve the purpose and high-cost ones that focus on function and comfort. It all depends on affordability. People who wish to go for dentures as they have crooked, or uneven teeth may be looking for cosmetic dentures which have a dual purpose. Apart from putting back the smile on the patients’ face the dentures also perform the function of the missing original teeth. Dentures come in different qualities with matching prices and performance.
Myth Number 4. Denture Wearers Cannot Speak Normally
This is probably the most circulated and feared myth of all. While wearing dentures affects the way you speak initially, once you get used to it, your pronunciation and speech become normal again. Your dentist will give you some tips on how to use your new dentures and how to get used to them. It is important to wear the new dentures continuously even when you sense any discomfort. It is the initial breaking in period that is difficult to manage.
Myth Number 5. You Must Use an Adhesive to Keep Dentures in Place
Using a denture adhesive is a matter of convenience and comfort. While clip-on dentures do not pose any problems and most people are able to manage with them, fixing your dentures with denture paste makes them more stable. Today there are easy-to-use denture pastes that can be applied at home itself. Using denture paste prevents food particles from getting stuck between the dentures and gums and prevents bad breath and further deterioration of the gums. This myth is actually an advantage though it is not necessary that you must use denture paste to keep the dentures in position.
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