Do Dentures Change the Shape of Your Face?
If you’re thinking about getting dentures or already have them, you might wonder, "Do dentures change the shape of your face?" It’s a great question—and the answer is yes, they can. But the good news is that properly fitted dentures can actually help maintain and support your facial structure, keeping you looking more like yourself.
In this blog, we’ll explain how dentures affect the shape of your face, why these changes happen, and how you can ensure the best possible outcome with the right denture care and fit.
How Tooth Loss Affects Your Face
Before we talk about dentures, it’s important to understand what happens to your face when you lose teeth. Your teeth and jawbone play a big role in supporting your cheeks, lips, and overall facial structure.
When teeth are lost:
Jawbone Shrinks: Without the stimulation of chewing, the jawbone begins to shrink and lose density over time (a process called bone resorption).
Face Sinks or Collapses: As the bone shrinks, the lower part of the face can sag, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance.
Wrinkles and Lines Increase: Loss of support in the cheeks and lips can lead to more noticeable wrinkles and folds around the mouth and chin.
Without intervention, these changes can make a person look older than they are.
How Dentures Can Help Maintain Facial Shape
Dentures are designed not just to replace missing teeth but also to provide the support your face needs to maintain its natural shape. Well-fitted dentures help:
Support Cheeks and Lips: By filling the space left by missing teeth, dentures give volume back to the cheeks and lips, preventing them from sinking inward.
Restore Natural Height: Dentures help maintain the proper distance between the upper and lower jaws, which keeps the face from looking shorter or collapsed.
Improve Confidence: A fuller, supported facial appearance can boost self-esteem and help you feel more comfortable smiling, talking, and eating.
Can Dentures Also Change Your Appearance Over Time?
While dentures provide important support, they don’t stop bone loss completely. Over time, even with dentures, your gums and jawbone can continue to change, which may affect how your dentures fit and how your face looks.
Potential Changes:
Loose Dentures: As the jawbone shrinks, dentures can become loose, leading to less support for the cheeks and lips.
Sunken Appearance: Ill-fitting dentures may not provide the right volume, causing the face to look hollow or aged.
Changes in Bite: Bone loss can affect how your upper and lower teeth meet, changing the way your mouth looks when closed.
Why It Matters:
If your dentures no longer fit properly, they won’t support your face as they should. That’s why regular check-ups and adjustments are important to keep your dentures—and your appearance—in good shape.
Signs Your Dentures May Need an Adjustment or Replacement
If you notice changes in your facial appearance or comfort, it could be time to see a professional. Watch for these signs:
Dentures feel loose or unstable.
Increased wrinkles or sagging around the mouth.
Jaw or gum discomfort.
Difficulty chewing or speaking.
Changes in how your dentures fit when you bite down.
Early action can help restore a comfortable fit and prevent further changes to your facial structure.
How Modern Dentures Are Designed to Preserve Your Facial Appearance
Thanks to advances in denture design and materials, modern dentures are better than ever at supporting facial structure and providing a natural look.
Key Features:
Custom Fit: Dentures are tailored specifically to your mouth for the best support and comfort.
Natural Aesthetics: High-quality materials and careful craftsmanship ensure dentures look like natural teeth and gums.
Implant-Supported Dentures: These offer even greater stability and support, helping to reduce bone loss and maintain facial shape over the long term.
Tips for Keeping Your Face Looking Natural with Dentures
To get the most out of your dentures and keep your face looking its best, follow these tips:
Have Regular Check-Ups: See your denture specialist at least once a year to check fit and function.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Clean your dentures and gums daily to prevent irritation and keep your mouth healthy.
Handle Dentures with Care: Avoid dropping or damaging them, which can affect how they fit.
Replace Dentures When Needed: Most dentures need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years as your mouth naturally changes.
Consider Implant Dentures: If you want the best long-term support for your facial structure, implants might be a good option.
When to Speak to a Professional
If you notice any changes in how your dentures fit, how your face looks, or if you’re experiencing discomfort, it’s best to speak with a professional denture specialist. A timely adjustment or new set of dentures can restore your comfort, improve your appearance, and protect your oral health.
Keep Your Smile Looking Their Best
Dentures can absolutely change the shape of your face—but with the right fit and care, they can enhance and preserve your natural appearance rather than detract from it. Well-made dentures support your cheeks, lips, and jawline, helping you maintain a youthful and confident smile.
At Denture Haus, we specialise in creating custom dentures designed for a perfect fit, natural look, and lasting comfort. Whether you need new dentures, adjustments, or advice about implant-supported options, our friendly team is here to help.
Ready to restore your smile and facial structure? Contact Denture Haus today to book a consultation and find the right solution for your denture needs!