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Have you ever noticed changes in the way faces look over time? Many factors can influence facial structure, including shifts in oral health. Some people find that their features appear different as the years go by, and they wonder what might be causing it. Do dentures change your face? Could there be a connection between missing teeth and facial shape? The way certain treatments fit and function plays a role in overall appearance. Let’s explore whether dentures can make a difference and what to expect when wearing them.
How Dentures Transform Facial Appearance
Let’s explore how dentures contribute to maintaining facial harmony and preventing unwanted changes.
Restoring Facial Structure and Preventing Sagging
Teeth play a key role in supporting facial muscles. When they are lost, the muscles around the mouth weaken, causing the skin to lose firmness. This can lead to a sunken appearance, especially around the jaw and cheeks. Dentures help stabilise these areas by filling the spaces left by missing teeth, reducing sagging and keeping the lower face proportionate.
A well-fitted denture helps maintain natural contours by evenly distributing pressure across the gums and jawbone. This support prevents the skin from collapsing inward, preserving the face’s natural shape. With consistent use and adjustments when needed, dentures provide ongoing structural stability, helping wearers maintain a well-defined profile.
Enhancing Facial Features for a More Balanced Look
The absence of teeth can make lips and cheeks appear thinner or less firm. Dentures restore volume to these areas by providing the support they need to maintain a fuller, well-proportioned look. When properly designed, they replicate the natural alignment of teeth, ensuring a symmetrical and balanced appearance.
A youthful look is closely tied to facial harmony. Dentures, when correctly shaped and positioned, help preserve the natural height of the lower face. This prevents an aged or drawn-in appearance while maintaining smooth transitions between facial features.
The Impact of Properly Fitted Dentures on Comfort and Expression
Loose or poorly fitting dentures can disrupt facial symmetry and create discomfort. If dentures shift or lack proper support, they can cause uneven pressure on the facial muscles, affecting both appearance and function. A snug and secure fit ensures that the face remains expressive and natural while speaking or smiling.
Beyond aesthetics, well-fitted dentures improve comfort. They allow muscles to function naturally, reducing strain and preventing discomfort caused by uneven bite or pressure points. This contributes to a relaxed, confident look while ensuring ease of movement during daily activities.
Dentures do more than restore a smile—they play a vital role in maintaining facial structure and preventing unwanted changes. By supporting the lips, cheeks, and jawline, they help preserve a youthful and balanced look. Choosing well-fitted dentures ensures both comfort and confidence, allowing wearers to enjoy natural expressions without discomfort. Regular adjustments and proper care help maintain their effectiveness over time, keeping the face well-supported and looking its best.
Denture Procedure: Step-by-Step Process for a Better Smile
Getting dentures is a process that involves several steps to ensure they fit well and feel natural. A well-planned procedure helps in creating dentures that restore both function and comfort. Every step is important in achieving a good fit and making the transition smooth. Here’s how the process works, from the initial assessment to the final placement.
Step 1: Assessing Your Needs
The first step in the denture process is a thorough examination. A prosthetist checks the condition of the mouth, including the gums and any remaining teeth. If some natural teeth are still in place, their health is evaluated to see if they can support partial dentures. For those needing full dentures, the prosthetist looks at how the dentures will sit in the mouth.
During this step, impressions of the mouth are taken. These moulds help create dentures that fit securely and comfortably. The prosthetist also discusses different options, including how dental implants can be used to improve stability for those wanting extra support.
Step 2: Preparing the Mouth
If teeth need to be removed before getting dentures, extractions are scheduled. The healing period varies for each person, but it is important to allow enough time for the gums to settle before fitting permanent dentures. Healing ensures a better fit and helps prevent discomfort later.
For those who want immediate dentures, a temporary set can be placed right after tooth removal. These provide function and appearance while the gums heal. Once healing is complete, permanent dentures are created for long-term use.
Step 3: Creating the Dentures
Once the gums are ready, the process of making dentures begins. The prosthetist uses the impressions taken earlier to craft a set that closely matches the natural shape of the mouth. The colour, size, and shape of the teeth are chosen to create a natural look.
A wax model of the dentures is often used to check the fit before the final set is made. This allows for adjustments to ensure the dentures feel right and function properly. The goal is to make sure the new dentures align well and provide a secure bite.
Step 4: Fitting and Adjustments
Once the final dentures are ready, they are placed in the mouth to check for fit and comfort. The prosthetist ensures they rest properly on the gums and do not cause pressure points. If any adjustments are needed, they are made at this stage to improve comfort.
It may take some time to get used to new dentures. The prosthetist provides guidance on speaking and eating while adjusting to them. Follow-up visits help in fine-tuning the fit as the mouth adapts.
Denture Care: How to Keep Them Clean and Long-Lasting
Keep Dentures Clean Daily
Keep Dentures Clean DailyRinse your dentures under lukewarm water after meals to remove food particles. Use a soft-bristled brush and a denture cleanser to gently clean all surfaces, avoiding regular toothpaste as it can damage the material. Always rinse thoroughly before placing them back in your mouth.
Soak Dentures for the Recommended Time
Soak dentures in a denture-cleaning solution for the duration recommended by the manufacturer. After soaking, rinse them carefully and let them air dry to maintain their condition.
Care for Natural Teeth and Gums
If you wear partial dentures, it’s essential to clean your remaining teeth daily. Caring for your natural teeth and gums helps prevent decay or gum problems, supporting your overall oral health.
Address Poorly Fitting Dentures Quickly
Poorly fitting dentures can cause irritation and discomfort. Regular check-ups with your prosthetist ensure the fit is maintained and any necessary adjustments are made promptly.
Book Your Visit for a Fresh New Look
Wearing dentures does more than replace missing teeth—it helps maintain facial contours and balance. The shape of your face can change over time, especially when missing teeth affect the way muscles and skin sit. A well-fitted denture restores overall facial aesthetics, bringing back a natural and comfortable look. When dentures fit properly, they enhance facial aesthetics by supporting lips and cheeks, preventing facial sagging, and keeping expressions balanced.
Many people find that dentures not only restore function but also help maintain a youthful appearance. The right fit ensures smooth movement and reduces discomfort, improving overall facial appearance. If you are considering dentures or need adjustments to achieve the best results, we are here to help. Call us today at (07) 5317 1023 or (07) 5315 8076 to explore options that influence facial aesthetics and restore confidence in your smile. Let’s find the perfect solution for you!
References
https://www.medicinenet.com/dentures/article.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279192/
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