DEAR ABBY: I wear dentures. I have never gone out in public without them. However, I have seen people I know take them out in restaurants, etc. It is not only awful to look at, but don't they realize how they look? Am I shallow for not wanting anyone to see me without my "smile"? Is there some social etiquette that's being broken? -- TOOTHLESS IN COLORADO
DEAR TOOTHLESS: Of course there is. The active word here is "discretion." If a dental appliance is ill-fitting and uncomfortable, it should not be left on the table or displayed like a goldfish in a glass of water for all to admire. And need I add that a trip to the dentist should be scheduled ASAP to remedy the problem?