Many people turn to dentures to replace missing teeth and get their smile back. While dentures are a great solution, some people worry about a condition called “denture face.” This term describes the sunken, aged look that can happen when tooth loss affects the facial structure. The good news is that with modern dental care and the right approach, it is possible to get a full and youthful-looking smile. Understanding the causes of “denture face” and the ways to avoid it is the first step toward getting a natural-looking smile that you feel good about.
At D on E Dental, we are dedicated to helping our patients feel confident in their smiles. We offer a variety of services to address tooth loss and its effects. You can find more about how we help with smile aesthetics on our page about Cosmetic Dentistry in Toronto.
What Causes “Denture Face”?
The term “denture face” is really a result of changes that occur after you lose your natural teeth. Your jawbone is supported by the roots of your teeth. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area no longer gets the stimulation it needs to stay healthy. Over time, the bone begins to shrink and resorb, or dissolve away. This process of bone loss is what causes the facial changes that can be a concern for denture wearers.
This bone loss can cause several changes to your face:
- A Sunken-In Look: The jawbone supports the cheeks and lips. As the bone shrinks, the face can begin to look sunken in and hollow.
- Sagging Facial Muscles: Without the proper support from the jaw and teeth, the facial muscles can lose their firmness, leading to a sagging appearance.
- Pronounced Wrinkles: The changes in facial structure can cause more visible wrinkles around the mouth and chin.
- A “Witch’s Chin”: In some cases, the chin can look more pointed as a result of the bone loss in the lower jaw.
For those who have other smile concerns, like crooked teeth, we provide many options. Our page on Complete Orthodontics Service in Toronto Ontario offers a look at how we can help with tooth alignment.
Modern Solutions to Avoid “Denture Face”
Thankfully, there are many ways to prevent or address “denture face.” The key is to work with a professional dental team that understands the importance of facial support and bone preservation.
- Properly Fitted Dentures: The simplest way to help avoid a sunken look is with dentures that are made to fit your face and bite. A well-made denture will fill out the lips and cheeks, giving your face a fuller, more natural look. It’s also important to have your dentures adjusted regularly, as your jaw and gums will change over time.
- Dental Implants: Dental implants are often considered the best long-term solution to avoid bone loss. An implant is a small post that is placed into the jawbone, where it acts as a new tooth root. This stimulation helps to keep the jawbone healthy and stops it from shrinking. Implants can be used to support a single tooth or to hold a full set of dentures in place. For people with misaligned teeth, our Dental Invisalign in Toronto Ontario service provides a way to get a straighter smile.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Keeping your mouth healthy is a good way to protect the bone and gums that support your teeth. Regular checkups can help you stay on top of any issues that may arise. Good gum health is particularly important, as periodontal disease can contribute to bone loss. For specialized care, you can read about our Best Periodontal Care in Toronto Ontario options.
- Addressing Urgent Dental Needs: Sometimes, an old or ill-fitting denture can lead to pain and bone loss. If you have an urgent dental issue, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Our team can help with immediate concerns, and you can find more information about how we handle unexpected issues on our Expert Emergency Dentist in Yonge and Eglinton page.
Your Partner in Smile Restoration
D on E Dental, located at 20 Eglinton Ave W Suite 1100 Toronto, ON M4R 1K8, Canada, is one of the best dental clinics in Toronto, Ontario. We are committed to providing personalized, high-quality care that helps you get a beautiful, natural-looking smile. We work to make sure our patients get the information they need to make choices about their oral health. You can reach our office by emailing Info@dentistoneglinton.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can my face change shape with dentures? Yes, if dentures are not properly fitted or adjusted over time, it can lead to bone loss in the jaw. This bone loss can cause the face to look sunken in and can change the shape of your facial features.
2. Are dental implants the only way to avoid “denture face”? Dental implants are considered the best way to prevent bone loss and the resulting changes to the face. However, a well-made and properly maintained denture can also help provide support and a fuller facial appearance.
3. Does bone loss happen to everyone who wears dentures? Bone loss is a natural process that happens after teeth are lost. While it is a common concern for denture wearers, it can be managed with modern dental solutions like implants or by making sure your dentures fit correctly and are adjusted as needed.
4. How often should I get my dentures checked? You should visit your dentist for regular checkups, where they can examine your gums and jawbone and check the fit of your dentures. A common practice is to have a relining or adjustment done every few years to keep the fit secure.
5. Can my jawbone be restored after it has shrunk? In some cases, a procedure called a bone graft can be done to add bone to your jaw. This is often done to prepare the jaw for dental implants, which require enough bone to be successful.
Conclusion
The idea of “denture face” is a real concern for many, but it is not an unavoidable part of getting dentures. By working with a professional dental team and exploring all your options, you can get a new smile that looks natural and feels great. Whether you choose a custom-made denture or decide on dental implants, the goal is to get a healthy, confident smile that looks good and feels secure.
