If you are missing teeth, your self-esteem was likely lost along with them. Eating in public, speaking, and even smiling can be embarrassing, but those aren’t the only challenges. Just the thought of puckering up for a kiss can make your palms sweat. Kissing is important to any romantic relationship. Thankfully, you can enjoy a complete, confident smile again with dentures. Although they will look and feel natural, kissing with dentures can be awkward at first, but don’t let that stop you from smooching with your partner. Here’s how you can kiss passionately with your new smile.
Problems with Kissing
Dentures often have a bad reputation for an unnatural appearance and feel, but any negative rumors you’ve heard are issues of the past. As with all aspects of dental care, dentures and partials have undergone continual improvements to look and feel more realistic than ever. After an adjustment period, you may even forget they aren’t your real teeth, which can be problematic if you aren’t careful when going in for a kiss.
Partial Dentures
A partial denture features a metal framework, which allows it to clip or clasp onto your teeth to stay in place. This method is effective in keeping your replacement teeth in place to laugh, smile, and eat without a worry in the world. Unfortunately, if tongues are involved in kissing, your partial may unhook in the heat of the moment.
Complete Dentures
A full denture replaces an entire arch of lost teeth. A traditional denture is held to the gum tissue using suction or an adhesive. Although you won’t have to worry about any slipping or irritation, your dentures can dislodge if kissing gets a little out of hand. Kissing that creates suction is more likely to loosen your dentures. Pushing against your partner’s mouth too hard can also cause them to move.
Whether a partial or denture, it can take time to adjust to kissing because your new teeth won’t have any nerve endings. A simple kiss can lead to dental pain or injury by bumping your teeth on your partner’s. It will take a little practice, but in no time at all, you’ll have the romance back in your life.
Kissing with Dentures
If your partner doesn’t already know, tell them about your dentures. This will prevent any surprises when kissing. Pay attention to your movements and motions to avoid bumping your denture on your partner’s teeth.
If you are still concerned about an embarrassing situation, ask your dentist about adding the support and stability of dental implants to your smile. You’ll never have to worry about your teeth falling out with implant dentures, even when locking lips with your loved one.
About Dr. Jeff Lee
Dr. Lee earned his dental degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry before continuing his training by 4 years to specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He has the qualifications and experience to treat complex oral health issues, like tooth loss. If you’re ready to rebuild your smile, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.