Getting dentures is a big decision that can dramatically change your appearance. Many people worry that their face will “collapse” or they’ll look much older once they have dentures. So what’s the truth? Here’s a quick overview of how dentures can affect facial structure and appearance over time.
Do dentures cause facial collapse?
Dentures themselves do not directly cause facial collapse. However, over time, the loss of tooth structure and the wearing of dentures can contribute to subtle changes in facial structure and muscles that may give the appearance of collapse.
When you lose your natural teeth, your jawbone no longer gets the stimulation it needs to maintain its volume and density. As a result, the bone begins to resorb or deteriorate over time. This process also causes the gums and other facial tissues to recede.
Wearing dentures accelerates bone loss because the pressure and rubbing of the dentures accelerates resorption. The more teeth you are missing, the more rapid the bone loss will be.
As facial bones deteriorate, facial muscles also start to sag and lose tone. This muscle laxity combined with bone loss leads to wrinkles, jowls, and an aged appearance over time.
Factors that affect facial changes
The degree of facial change you experience with dentures depends on several factors:
- Your age when getting dentures – Younger people’s facial bones and muscles recover more quickly from tooth loss.
- Number of lost teeth – The more teeth that are extracted, the more bone loss occurs.
- Time since extractions – The longer the time since extractions, the more bone loss has occurred.
- Underlying health conditions – Diseases like osteoporosis accelerate bone loss.
- Denture fit and care – Well-fitted dentures slow bone loss vs loose dentures.
- Facial muscle tone – Sagging muscles contribute to collapsed appearance.
Changes that happen gradually
It’s important to understand that facial changes with dentures happen very slowly over a period of many years. You will not suddenly look old overnight after getting dentures.
However, some gradual changes you may notice over 5-10 years include:
- Thinner lips and more wrinkles around the mouth
- More pronounced nasolabial folds (lines from nose to mouth)
- Jowls becoming more noticeable
- A sunken, “collapsed” look to the lower part of the face
Can dentures be fitted to prevent collapse?
Modern dentistry techniques can help minimize and delay some of the facial changes associated with dentures.
Getting dentures made as soon as possible after tooth loss will help preserve bone. Implant-supported dentures also prevent bone loss because the implants stimulate the jawbone.
Your denturist can use wax try-ins and advanced technology like 3D scanners to optimize the fit of your dentures. This will distribute pressure evenly and reduce rubbing on the gums.
As you age with dentures, you may need to have them relined every 5-10 years as your gums and bone change. This will ensure they maintain a tight fit.
Other facial support options
In addition to well-fitted dentures, there are other options to help support facial structure and muscles:
- Facial exercises – Exercises like puckering, smiling, and chewing motions can stimulate facial muscles and increase tone.
- A healthy diet – Calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients will help maintain bone density.
- Bone grafts – Grafting material can replace lost bone to support the facial structure.
- Injectable fillers – Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane can plump up facial folds and creases.
Caring for your appearance with dentures
While some facial changes are inevitable with dentures over time, there are some things you can do to keep looking your best:
- Get dentures made promptly after extractions
- Have dentures professionally fitted and adjusted
- Practice good denture care and hygiene daily
- Have old dentures relined or remade every 5-10 years
- Moisturize your face daily, especially around the mouth
- Apply makeup to highlight your features
- See your denturist regularly for checkups
Consult with your denturist
Don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns about facial changes with your denturist before moving forward with dentures. They can assess your risk factors and explain what treatment options would work best for you.
With proper care and upkeep, dentures do not have to mean a collapsed facial appearance. Planning ahead and taking preventive measures can go a long way toward maintaining your natural facial structure.
Summary
In summary:
- Dentures themselves do not instantly cause facial collapse.
- Over many years, bone loss and muscle changes can lead to a collapsed appearance.
- How quickly it happens depends on age, health, and other factors.
- Well-fitted dentures, facial exercises, fillers, and other options can help prevent collapse.
- Good denture care and maintenance are key to minimizing facial changes.
Consult your denturist to determine the best treatment plan for you. With proper care, dentures do not have to mean dramatic facial changes.