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By
Dr. Isam Hamati
President, Aspen Dental Associates
of New York, P.C.
Aspen Dental
Associates of New York, P.C.
 Although
denture craftsmanship has improved dramatically
in the last five years, many myths still persist
about dentures and partials.
 In
fact, well-made dentures are virtually impossible
to tell apart from your natural teeth. Plus, a
precision fitted denture aids in speech and eating
while giving your mouth and face a natural look.
Myth: All dentures are the same. They're
all made from a standard mold used on all patients.
Fact: An Aspen Dental denture is individually
crafted based on an impression taken of each patient's
mouth. We design and finish the denture with materials
and delicate craftsmanship that most closely resemble
the patient's natural teeth and gums. These dentures
are made from a variety of the highest quality,
durable materials available in a choice of styles
and prices to provide the ultimate in denture
comfort.
Myth: Dentures will last a lifetime.
Fact: Your mouth and gums are living tissue
and are constantly evolving with many variables
affecting it: your age, overall health, weight
gain/loss, nutrition, medications, etc. All these
factors influence the fit and comfort of your
dentures. Regular check-ups help your dentist
monitor your mouth and make recommendations on
repairs and adjustments for your current dentures
or the need for replacement dentures. With proper
care and periodic check-ups your dentures should
last for 5-7 years.
Myth: A denture wearer, I can bite into
apples, carrots and other hard foods with my front
teeth.
Fact: Biting food with the front teeth
of your dentures is not recommended because it
can cause sore gums. It can also hasten bone loss
that affects your dentures' fit. To eat properly
with dentures, cut the food into bite-sized pieces
before chewing. You don't have to give up your
favorite foods, you only have to change the way
you eat them.
 Myth:
There is no need to ever take dentures out.
Fact: A denture is a removable prosthetic
fitted against the living tissue of your gums.
That tissue needs a chance to rest without the
pressure from the denture for a definite time
each day. It is recommended that your dentures
always be removed for some period of time every
day or night. And, at least once a day, you should
remove your teeth and brush the mouth and gums
with a very soft toothbrush to stimulate circulation
and maintain healthy tissue.
Myth: A good reline will solve all problems
with dentures. Fact: Relines correct your
dentures' fit against the gum tissue. Relines
should only be done after a thorough examination
to determine that there are no other underlying
problems with the dentures (for example, a poor
bite.) Choosing high quality, custom-made dentures
and partials can have dramatic physical and emotional
benefits. You will eat more comfortably thereby
gaining better nutrition. Plus the confidence
you'll feel from having a beautiful smile can
significantly enhance the quality of your life.
For
more information on Aspen Dental,
visit the company's Web site at http://www.aspendent.com
or call or stop by one of Aspen's
three locations listed above.
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