Full dentures are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, offering an affordable way to restore functionality and appearance. While they are beneficial for many patients, it’s essential to consider their potential drawbacks before committing to this treatment.
Let us explore the disadvantages of full dentures and provide insights to help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Full Denture?
A full denture is a removable dental appliance designed to replace all missing teeth in an arch. Made from acrylic materials, it mimics natural teeth and gum tissue to restore the appearance and functionality of your smile. While full dentures offer a practical solution for tooth loss, they come with both advantages and disadvantages.
Considering all available options and understanding their pros and cons is essential when deciding on the right restoration for your needs.
10 Disadvantages of Full Dentures
While full dentures are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, they come with certain limitations that affect your comfort and quality of life. Knowing the disadvantages of full dentures can help you make a good decision about your dental care options. Here are some key drawbacks to consider:
1. Lack of Stability and Fit
One of the most common complaints about full dentures is their lack of stability. Over time, the jawbone can shrink due to the absence of natural tooth roots, causing the dentures to fit poorly. Ill-fitting dentures may slip or move while speaking or eating, leading to discomfort and embarrassment. Frequent adjustments or replacements are often necessary to maintain proper fit.
2. Difficulty Eating Certain Foods
Full dentures reduce the biting force compared to natural teeth or dental implants. As a result, chewing hard or sticky foods becomes challenging. Many denture wearers struggle with foods like nuts, apples, and chewy candies. This can limit the variety of foods you can enjoy and impact overall nutrition, as certain healthy foods may become harder to chew.
3. Sore Spots and Gum Irritation
The pressure exerted by dentures on the gums can cause sore spots, irritation, and discomfort. This is particularly common during the adjustment period or if the dentures don’t fit properly. If not regularly adjusted, these irritations can worsen over time, making it difficult to wear the dentures for extended periods.
4. Speech Difficulties
Full dentures can temporarily affect your ability to speak clearly. As your tongue and lips adjust to the dentures, you may experience difficulty pronouncing certain words or sounds. This is a common issue during the early stages of wearing dentures but can improve with practice and time.
5. High Maintenance
Full dentures require a high level of maintenance to ensure their longevity and proper function. Clean them daily and soak it overnight to prevent damage or warping. In addition to caring for the dentures themselves, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, including cleaning your gums. This daily care routine can feel time-consuming compared to the ease of maintaining natural teeth or implants.
6. Reduced Bite Force
Compared to natural teeth or dental implants, full dentures offer significantly reduced bite force. This makes chewing less efficient and can lead to digestive issues if food is not properly broken down. Reduced chewing ability may also discourage the consumption of certain foods, specially those high in fiber, which can impact overall nutrition.
7. Jawbone Loss
Full dentures do not stimulate the jawbone in the same way that natural teeth or implants do. Over time, this lack of stimulation causes bone loss, a process known as resorption. This bone loss can alter your facial structure, causing a sunken appearance around the mouth and potentially making dentures uncomfortable or ill-fitting.
8. Psychological Impact
Wearing full dentures can affect a person’s confidence and self-esteem. Some individuals may feel less attractive or youthful due to relying on artificial teeth. Concerns about dentures slipping during meals or conversations can cause anxiety in social settings, further affecting mental well-being.
9. Shorter Lifespan
Full dentures typically have a lifespan of 5-10 years. Over time, they may need to be relined or replaced due to changes in the mouth’s structure, such as jawbone shrinkage. Although they are less expensive upfront than alternatives like dental implants, the ongoing cost of replacing or adjusting dentures can add up over time.
10. Potential for Allergic Reactions
Materials like acrylic or metal components used in dentures can cause allergic reactions in certain people. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, or irritation in the mouth or surrounding tissues. In such cases, your dentist can offer hypoallergenic materials to reduce discomfort.
While full dentures offer an affordable and functional option for replacing missing teeth, these disadvantages highlight the need for careful consideration and discussion with a dental professional. Alternatives like dental implants may provide more permanent solutions with fewer downsides for some individuals.
Take the Next Step Towards a Comfortable Smile with Dr. Joseph Stan, DDS
If you’re considering full dentures or exploring other dental options, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Joseph Stan, DDS. Book your consultation today and discuss the best solutions for your oral health. Call now at (844) 469-7645 to schedule your appointment!
FAQs
What are the Advantages of Full Dentures?
Full dentures offer several advantages, including affordability, especially for those on a budget or with dental insurance. They replace an entire arch of teeth, restore both function and appearance and are removable for easy cleaning. With proper care, they can last for years and provide a natural look.
Can You Live a Normal Life with Full Dentures?
Yes, you can live a normal life with full dentures. While it may take some time to adjust, modern dentures fit comfortably and function just like natural teeth, as they allow you to speak, smile, and eat with ease.
Will I Ever Eat Normally Again with Dentures?
It may take a few weeks to adjust to wearing dentures, but with practice, you can gradually return to eating most foods. Once your mouth adapts, you’ll be able to enjoy a variety of foods comfortably.
