Dentures and Facial Structure

The loss of natural teeth affects more than just your smile. It can lead to changes in your facial structure, impacting your overall appearance. Dentures offer a solution that not only replaces missing teeth but also helps restore the natural contours of your face. Understanding how dentures can achieve this is crucial for those considering this dental option.

The Impact of Tooth Loss on Facial Structure

Tooth loss leads to a variety of changes in the mouth and face. Teeth play a significant role in supporting the facial muscles and maintaining the shape of the jaw. When teeth are lost, the bone that once supported them begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This bone loss can result in a sunken appearance, giving the face an aged look.

The absence of teeth also causes the cheeks to sag and the lips to fold inward, altering the natural symmetry of the face. These changes are often more pronounced in individuals who have lost multiple teeth or have been without teeth for a long period.

How Dentures Restore Facial Structure

Dentures are designed to mimic the function and appearance of natural teeth. They provide the necessary support to the facial muscles, helping to prevent the sunken appearance that comes with tooth loss. By replacing the missing teeth, dentures help in maintaining the natural alignment and spacing of the remaining teeth, which further supports the overall facial structure.

  • Bone Preservation: While dentures do not directly prevent bone loss, they help in redistributing the forces exerted during chewing. This distribution can slow down the rate of bone resorption, maintaining the integrity of the jawbone for a longer period.
  • Muscle Support: Dentures provide the needed support for the facial muscles, preventing them from sagging. This support helps in retaining a more youthful appearance and restoring the natural contours of the face.
  • Cheek and Lip Support: By filling the gaps left by missing teeth, dentures help in supporting the cheeks and lips. This support prevents the inward folding of the lips and the hollowed appearance of the cheeks, contributing to a more balanced and natural facial appearance.

Types of Dentures and Their Benefits

Different types of dentures cater to various needs and preferences. Understanding the options available can help you make an informed decision.

  • Complete Dentures: These are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. Complete dentures help in restoring the entire arch of teeth, providing comprehensive support to the facial structure.
  • Partial Dentures: These are ideal for individuals who have some natural teeth remaining. Partial dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth, preventing the remaining teeth from shifting and maintaining the alignment and spacing necessary for a natural facial structure.
  • Implant-Supported Dentures: These dentures are anchored by dental implants, offering increased stability and support. Implant-supported dentures provide the most effective solution for preserving the jawbone and maintaining facial structure.

The Process of Getting Dentures

The process of getting dentures involves several steps to ensure a proper fit and natural appearance.

  1. Consultation: The first step is a consultation with a dentist to assess your oral health and discuss your needs and preferences.
  2. Impressions: The dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a custom-fit denture.
  3. Try-In: A preliminary version of the denture may be created for you to try on. Adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable fit.
  4. Final Denture: Once the fit and appearance are satisfactory, the final denture will be created and fitted.

Proper care and maintenance of dentures are essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Regular check-ups with your dentist will help in maintaining the fit and function of your dentures.

Trust Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental for Your Denture Needs

If you are considering dentures to restore your facial structure and natural appearance, Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental in Edmonton offers comprehensive denture services tailored to meet your needs. With a focus on personalized care and advanced dental solutions, Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental provides both complete and partial dentures, as well as implant-supported options. Their experienced team will guide you through the process, ensuring a comfortable fit and natural look that enhances your overall appearance.

For those in Edmonton seeking a solution to restore their smile and facial structure, Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how dentures can transform your appearance and improve your quality of life.

Posted in Dental News & Advice