Photo credit: USAtoday.com
A celebrity’s smile is iconic and instantly recognizable. But did you know that many of our favorite celebrities use dentures to maintain their attractive and pearly whites?
Dentures have been used for centuries to replace missing teeth or fill gaps in one’s smile. With technology advancements, dentures have come a long way from being made out of wooden blocks, now having an almost undetectable appearance, even in close-up photography. This dramatically increased the appeal of wearing them by celebrities and the public – both men and women alike – who want to look their best at any age.
In this article, we will discuss some of the biggest stars who wear false teeth. You might be surprised at who wears them!
Types of Dentures
There are two main types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are used when all of the natural teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth are still present.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures are also known as full dentures. They are used when all of the natural teeth are missing or need to be removed.
There are two types of complete dentures: conventional and immediate.
- Conventional dentures are made after the remaining natural teeth are removed and the gum tissues have healed. This process may take several weeks, during which the patient may be without teeth.
- Immediate dentures, on the other hand, are made in advance and can be placed immediately after the teeth are removed. While they offer the convenience of not having to be without teeth during the healing process, they may need to be adjusted several times as the gums heal and shrink.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth are still present. They can be made from various materials, including acrylic, metal, or a combination of both.
Partial dentures can either be removable or fixed. Removable partial dentures are held in place by clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth. Fixed partial dentures, or dental bridges, are anchored to the remaining natural teeth or dental implants and cannot be removed by the patient.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are a newer option that combines the stability of dental implants with the convenience of dentures. These dentures are supported by dental implants that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They offer superior stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures and can improve the patient’s ability to eat and speak.
Celebrities Who Had Dentures
Despite their fame and fortune, some celebrities have experienced tooth loss and have turned to dentures to restore their smiles. Here are a few examples:
Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck, the Academy Award-winning actor and director, has been open about his struggles with dental problems. He reportedly had his teeth replaced with dentures after years of neglecting them.
Eddie van Halen
Eddie van Halen, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of the band Van Halen, had a long history of dental problems due to his heavy smoking and sugar consumption. He reportedly had to have his teeth replaced with denture teeth later in life.
Emma Watson
Emma Watson, an English actress starring in Harry Potter and a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador, reportedly wore these artificial teeth due to a condition called bruxism, which causes her to grind her teeth.
Joe Biden
Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, reportedly wears dentures to improve his speaking abilities. He has been open about his struggles with stuttering and has credited his dentures with helping him overcome this challenge.
Jon Bon Jovi
Jon Bon Jovi, the rock singer and songwriter, reportedly wears partial dentures due to a combination of tooth loss and TMJ disorder.
Winston Churchill
Winston Churchill, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, wore dentures for most of his adult life. His dentures were famously made by dental technician Derek Cudlipp and were crafted to help him overcome a lisp and improve his speech.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer several benefits to patients who have lost their natural teeth. Here are some of the most significant benefits:
- Improved appearance: Dentures can restore the natural look of your smile and help you regain your confidence.
- Improved speech: Without teeth, it can be difficult to produce certain sounds clearly. Dentures can help improve your ability to speak clearly and pronounce words accurately.
- Improved chewing ability: Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods, but dentures can help improve your ability to chew and enjoy a variety of foods.
- Improved oral health: Dentures can help keep the remaining teeth in place, which can help protect against further tooth loss and decay.
Denture Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of dentures are essential for keeping them in good condition and maximizing their lifespan. Here are some tips for taking care of your dentures:
- Brush your dentures every day with a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to use toothpaste specifically designed for cleaning dentures. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which is too abrasive.
- Soak your dentures overnight in an approved denture cleaner or cleaning solution to help remove plaque and bacteria.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and adjustments as needed.
If you have any questions about dentures or need more information on caring for them, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Contact Our Office to Learn More About Dentures
At Tolley Dental, we offer high-quality dentures and implant-supported dentures. Our experienced team of dental professionals can help you find the right solution to restore your smile.
Contact our office today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.