How To Avoid Denture Face

Denture face is a term used to describe the facial changes that can occur due to the loss of natural teeth and the use of dentures. These changes often involve sagging cheeks, a sunken appearance, and a more aged look. The underlying cause is that dentures don’t stimulate the jawbone as natural teeth do, leading to bone resorption over time, which affects the shape of your face.

Here are some strategies to help avoid denture face:

🦷 1. Consider Dental Implants

Dental implants can be an excellent solution to maintain the natural shape of your face.
They replace missing teeth and provide the same stimulation to the jawbone as natural teeth, reducing bone loss.
Implants can be used alone or in combination with dentures (implant-supported dentures).

👨‍⚕️ 2. Ensure Proper Fit of Your Dentures

Ill-fitting dentures can accelerate bone loss and contribute to denture face.
Visit your dentist regularly to have your dentures adjusted as your jaw shape changes over time.
Well-fitted dentures help preserve your jaw’s natural structure.

💪 3. Exercise Your Facial Muscles

Strengthening your facial muscles can help reduce the sagging look that sometimes comes with dentures.
- Regularly practice facial exercises, such as:
  - Smile widely and hold it for 5 seconds.
  - Pucker your lips and hold for 5 seconds.
  - Blow kisses to engage cheek and lip muscles.

🍏 4. Eat a Balanced Diet for Bone Health

Ensure you get sufficient nutrients to support bone health:
- Calcium and Vitamin D are crucial for maintaining bone density and minimizing resorption.
- Foods like dairy products, leafy greens, fatty fish, and fortified cereals are good sources.

💧 5. Stay Hydrated and Moisturize Your Skin

Dehydrated skin can lead to more prominent sagging and wrinkles.
Drink plenty of water, and use moisturizing products for your face, especially around the mouth and cheeks.

🧑‍⚕️ 6. Regular Dental Check-ups

Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure your dentures are still in good condition.
Your dentist can also monitor bone loss and offer solutions to help manage or prevent it.

🦷 7. Try Soft or Flexible Dentures

Flexible dentures or soft liners are more comfortable and less likely to cause bone resorption.
They can also offer a more snug fit, reducing the risk of facial sagging.

🧴 8. Use Denture Adhesives

A good-quality denture adhesive can help keep dentures more securely in place, improving both comfort and function.
This also reduces the amount of pressure on your jawbone.

🧑‍🔬 9. Consider Partial Dentures or Bridges

If you still have some natural teeth remaining, consider partial dentures or dental bridges to replace missing teeth.
These options can provide better support for your facial muscles and prevent further bone loss.

🧑‍⚕️ 10. Monitor Bone Health

In some cases, bone loss can be slowed or reversed with bone grafts or bone-stimulating treatments.
If bone resorption is a concern, consult your dentist for potential solutions.