Let’s Talk Dentures (They’re Cooler Than You Think)
By Dr. Junho Choi
Dentures get a bad rap. I blame cartoons—someone’s grandpa sneezes and his teeth fly across the room. Funny? Sure. Accurate? Not even close.
If you’re missing teeth—whether it’s a few or a full set—dentures might be the solution that helps you feel like yourself again. And no, I’m not talking about those bulky, awkward things soaking in a cup on your nightstand. Today’s dentures are lighter, more natural-looking, and far more comfortable than most people expect.
Let’s break it down.
What are dentures, really?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth—and the surrounding tissues, too. There are full dentures for those who’ve lost all their teeth, and partial dentures if you’re just filling in the gaps. There are even implant-supported dentures, which snap into place and offer extra stability (more on that in a sec).
Why would someone choose dentures?
A lot of people think dentures are only for the elderly. Not true. Tooth loss can happen for all kinds of reasons—injury, gum disease, health conditions, or just plain genetics. Dentures restore not just your ability to chew, but also your smile, speech, and facial structure. (Fun fact: missing teeth can actually change the shape of your face, making you look older. Dentures help bring everything back into balance.)
But what about the slipping and clicking and awkward dinner moments?
Those horror stories? Mostly outdated. Modern dentures are designed with fit and function in mind. And for those who want even more security, implant-supported dentures are a game-changer. These attach directly to dental implants placed in the jaw, giving you extra hold without the need for adhesives. Translation: you can bite into that sandwich without fear.
Are they easy to get used to?
Let’s be real—it’s an adjustment. The first few days can feel weird. You might salivate more, have a little soreness, or sound like you’re practicing a new accent. Totally normal. Most people adapt within a couple of weeks.
Caring for dentures—hard or nah?
Not hard. You’ll need to clean them daily, soak them overnight, and keep regular checkups on the calendar. Like anything in life, they last longer when you take care of them.
My final thoughts:
Dentures aren’t a step backward. They’re a step toward feeling better, eating better, and smiling bigger. Whether you’re considering full dentures, partials, or implant-supported ones, the point is: you’ve got options. And none of them involve your teeth flying out when you sneeze.
Come to our Palm Desert dental studio and we can sit and have a real conversation about the best option for you. No pressure. Just honest advice—and maybe a few laughs along the way.
– Dr. Choi
