Putting in dentures is one of the most common procedures our doctors in San Francisco undertake on a regular basis, and it’s, therefore, one of the services we are most frequently questioned about. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about what dentures actually are, how they work, and how they should be used. We’re going to spend a couple of moments trying to correct some of the more common ones in an effort to assist our patients further.
Misconception 1: Dentures Are Essentially the Same as Natural Teeth
This is one of the most popular misconceptions our San Francisco patients have, so it’s important we take some time to clear it up and explain a few vital things about what dentures actually are:
- Dentures function in groups, unlike regular teeth, which work independently of one another.
- They are as effective as natural teeth but not more effective, so they need to be taken care of like natural teeth.
- They are placed on soft gum tissue, unlike your natural teeth, which are located on the bone.
Misconception 2: Once the Procedure Is Over, the Patient’s Work Is Done
Once the procedure is complete, the patient’s work is far from over. They must monitor how their oral health is progressing at home and also schedule follow-up appointments with their dentist to see how their mouth is taking to the dentures. Regular checkups with our San Francisco doctors will help maintain the life of the dentures.
Misconception 3: Dentures Will Cause Ulcers in the Mouth
Most cases of denture application, on the whole, do not cause ulcers to form in the patient’s mouth. That being said, no two patients are the same in San Francisco, and it is entirely within the realm of possibility a patient may develop an ulcer after the procedure. If this occurs, the patient needs to contact their dentist and schedule a follow-up appointment immediately.
Misconception 4: Dentures Don’t Change a Person’s Diet
Because dentures are not organic tissue, people often think they are virtually indestructible, and as such, this is another very common misconception our doctors must regularly dispel.
Upon receiving dentures, patients should begin eating a soft diet until a medical professional tells them to eat regularly again. However, hard or sticky foods should be avoided whenever possible, as they will damage the dentures over a period of time.
Misconception 5: Dentures Should be Worn All of the Time
This is 100% false. Wearing your dentures all the time is bad for both the oral health of the patient and the dentures themselves. After the patient is done with every meal, the dentures should be thoroughly washed and cleaned before reusing them. The patient should also wash their mouth out as well to prevent food from building up in it. In addition, the patient should not wear their dentures at night, as it will likely irritate the oral tissue.
Our doctors at SF Oral Surgery will clear up any misconception you may believe. We want you to know the facts and fully understand the process.
If you have questions or concerns about getting dentures, don’t hesitate to call our doctors at (415) 776-6710 today.
