Are Dentures Right For Me?

Modern dentistry offers a number of solutions for tooth loss, including dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. While most people understand that dental implants are today’s gold standard when it comes to tooth replacement, enjoying ever-increasing popularity, dentures remain the most widespread prosthetic of choice for dental patients with missing teeth.

Dental implants, unfortunately, can carry a hefty price tag for people missing more than a single tooth, and the cost is often prohibitive for many patients. Thanks to ongoing strides in dental technology, however, dentures are a more attractive and effective option than ever.

Who Can Benefit From Dentures?

When most people think of dentures, they conjure up an image of their grandmother’s ill-fitting device – complete with clacking noises and appliances accidentally dropped onto the Thanksgiving dinner plate. It’s a sight that used to send children running from the room, in shock at a toothless grandma and a faceless set of teeth grinning from between the turkey and cranberry sauce.

The good news is that just about anyone is a good candidate for modern dentures.

You may benefit from dentures if:

• You are missing several teeth
• You have sufficient gum tissue and bone mass in your jaw to accommodate the removable prosthetic

The type of dentures your dentist will recommend for you ultimately depends on the number of missing teeth.

• Same-day (temporary) dentures may be available for patients who want to leave the dentist’s office with a new smile right away; the temporary dentures are worn while the permanent dentures are created in a dental lab
• Implant dentures utilize dental implants for the strongest possible bite without the risk of shifting or slipping
• Full dentures may be the best choice for patients missing all their teeth
• Partial dentures are ideal for those who are missing three or more teeth (for one or two missing teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge)

What Is The Process Of Getting Dentures?

the process of getting your first set of dentures may start with the extraction of any remaining decayed or otherwise unhealthy teeth. The dentist then takes a custom mold of your bite from which the dentures will ultimately be created. Your dentist will help you choose the most suitable material and color for your dentures, Before the final product is made, you may get a preview of how your new teeth will look by way of a wax model.

When your new teeth are ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office for a fitting. At this time, the dentist will show you how to insert the dentures and explain how to take proper care of them. He will also check for a proper fit and comfort.

During the first few days of wearing your new dentures, you may need to practice speaking and chewing until you get used to the sensation of your new teeth. Don’t worry – the adjustment period should only take a few days.

Does Insurance Cover Dentures?

The cost of dentures depends on the type of dentures you receive. A full set costs more than a partial, for example, implant-supported dentures will also raise the price, and the material you choose for your new teeth figures into the overall expense as well.

Some dental insurance policies cover the cost of dentures up to the annual benefit cap, which can be a tremendous help in paying for your new teeth. Your dentist’s office can assist you in checking with your insurance carrier beforehand to avoid surprises in coverage or the lack thereof.

Medicaid, unfortunately, does not typically provide benefits for dentures. If cost is of concern, ask your dentist if dental financing is available. This allows you to make affordable monthly payments instead of paying the full price right away.

Your dentist will help you choose the right set of dentures to fit your needs and budget.

Speak with confidence, smile to your heart’s content, and eat the foods you love with dentures that fit!