How to prevent facial ageing in denture wearers
Facial ageing in denture wearers (and in general) used to be regarded as gravity assisted sagging of the soft tissues of the face. Recent research has shown that bony changes can also contribute to facial ageing. As we all grow older the facial muscles thin down and put less strain on the bones, causing the bones to become weaker.
Counteracting the harmful effects of facial ageing in denture wearers
In some cases the lower face height (area between the nose and chin) of your face decreases and sinks. This loss of facial height is a major contributor to facial ageing, as the skin around the face and neck sags and the effects of facial ageing become exaggerated.
It’s also very important for full denture wearers to be aware that the upper and lower ridges, upon which dentures sit resorb back into the mouth over the years and the dentures follow those ridges, often resulting in the classic denture wearer ‘witchy look’.
In most cases, this facial ageing can be reversed by wearing specially made, skilfully designed dentures.
The benefits
- Reduced lines around the mouth
- Reduced lines around the face in general
- Increased fullness of the lips
- More prominent cheekbones
- Tightened and strengthened facial muscles
- Increased blood flow to the skin making it more radiant, healthy and smoother
- Strengthening and firming of the jawline and neck
Achieve correct facial support with ‘Added Dimension Dentures’
Added dimension dentures work by using two main principles: the healing capacity of the body and the body’s remarkable ability to cope with environmental change. They increase protein activity by building up and maintaining muscle tone.
The muscles of the face when relaxed usually keep the lips together and the teeth slightly apart. The small space between the upper and lower teeth is called the ‘free-way space’ and is usually 3-5mm depending on age. At this relaxed or resting position there is a minimal amount of electrical activity occurring in the facial muscles to maintain muscle tone.
Correctly made dentures with added dimension can have tremendous results for facial support by regaining muscle tone around the face and neck.
They work by reducing the amount of ‘travel’ between upper and lower teeth during eating and closing of the back teeth. Face height is restored and facial muscle tone is gained. The ‘Punch and Judy’ look is minimised.
The muscles of the face immediately realise that these dentures are built up higher than the previous dentures. The muscles therefore adapt by altering their fibres to create a new resting height and ‘freeway space’. This process involves greater protein activity for the muscles which need more oxygen. To achieve this any capillaries which have been damaged due to ageing are repaired. This repair process is initiated by muscles releasing a growth factor (Mechano growth factor) which triggers the body’s healing process, so counteracting the harmful effects of facial ageing.
Sensational facial rejuvenation … naturally!
For advice regarding the latest denture facelift techniques you can call us on 0115 941 7052 to arrange your free denture consultation
Please Note: If you are fortunate enough to still have all your own natural teeth other removable dental appliances are available to reduce and delay the signs of facial ageing.
Treatment plans for patients with natural teeth will be designed in conjunction with a dentist.