There’s a great deal of questions that begin to arise when one starts to consider getting dentures. How much do they cost? Are there different types? Are they difficult to care for? Am I even a good candidate for them?
We understand that it can start to feel a bit overwhelming and that’s why we’re going to answer all of those questions for you right here on this page.
Who Are These Replacement Teeth For?
Let’s first talk about who dentures are really for and if they may be a good fit for you. Dentures are used as replacement teeth for people who are missing all of their teeth on either gum line or have gaps where they’re missing one or more teeth.
There’s also cases where a patient may not be missing any teeth yet but due to underlying conditions, a dentist is going to have to extract one or more of their teeth – dentures are often used as the replacement teeth in this situation. This type of situation is often caused from underlying issues like periodontal disease or any case where there’s really badly decayed teeth.
Depending on how many teeth are missing or going to be extracted, along with the condition of the current teeth and gum tissue, will lead a dentist to suggest what type of dentures would be right for you. This leads us into our next section…
What Type of Denture Would I Need?
When considering getting dentures the first thing you need to do is call a dentist to schedule an initial exam. A dentist will examine the health of your natural teeth, your gum tissue, your jawbone, and then determine if any natural teeth need to be extracted. This will allow the dentist to decide which type of dentures would be the best solution based on your current oral health conditions.
Here are a few of the most common types of dentures that we provide for our patients:
Partial Dentures- This type of denture is a very common type and it’s designed to suit patients who are missing one or multiple teeth. Partial dentures will be specially designed by a dentist to look as much as possible like your natural teeth. They’re crafted so that they rest on the surrounding natural teeth and fill in the gaps. The main difference between a partial denture and a dental bridge is that the denture is easily removable for cleaning and giving your gums time to rest.
Full Dentures – Also known as Complete Dentures, this type is very common as well and is generally what a dentist will suggest when a patient is missing all of their teeth. This could be just for one gum line where all of the teeth are missing or all of the teeth within the oral cavity are gone.
Dentists will also usually be able to give you the option between immediate complete dentures or conventional complete dentures. Usually patients who need to have teeth extracted will be given the option of immediate dentures – these will be worn for a few months after the extraction takes place and while the gum tissue heals.
Same Day Dentures – Most patients who have heard of Same Day Dentures, want to know if this is an option for them. Same Day Dentures are also known as Immediate Dentures, which we previously mentioned. These can also come in the for of partial dentures. These are ones that are inserted immediately following the removal of the natural teeth.
One of the main benefits of these is that they can be worn right out of the office and the patient doesn’t have to go through everyday life, for a good while, without their teeth. It also minimizes the bleeding that occurs after the removal of the natural teeth. The patient will also be able to chew and eat real food, which is a huge plus for many.
How Do They Make the Dentures?
Sometimes it takes multiple appointments to get dentures fitted. First the dentist will need to determine which type is the right fit for you – then they’ll have to take measurements of your jaw and the spaces.
Then they’ll make a model which is the same specific position and shape that the denture will need to be. The dentist will then cast a final denture and adjust it if any further shaping needs to be done.
How Are Dentures Cared For?
Dentures are relatively simple to care for – yet, that they are properly cared for. Dentures are not meant to last forever and often times will need to be replaced after so many years, however, like with most things, the better care you take of them the longer they’re going to last.
Most people are familiar with the fact that dentures need to be soaked. We always recommend soaking dentures at night as it gives your gum tissue some time to breathe and rest. While soaking is great, and necessary, it isn’t the only step you need to take to clean them.
We also recommend brushing your dentures. Always use a soft-bristled brush as it prevents them from getting scratched or other damage. It’s also a good idea to rinse your dentures after every meal, if and when you’re able to do so. It prevents plaque or other substance from building up on them. Always be very careful when handling them as they easily chip or break if they’re dropped and have a hard landing.
Are They Expensive?
Compared to some other solutions, such as dental implants, dentures are typically less expensive. Many insurance companies will cover partial cost or even full cost of them. It’s important to talk to your insurance company when considering this solution.
The cost of your dentures will also be dependent on which kind you get – partial, full, or immediate. Once you figure up the cost of them, you’ll also want to figure in the long time costs of purchasing cleaners, adhesives, and a replacement set (if necessary).
If you still have questions please don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll help guide you to the best and most affordable dentures in Fort Wayne, Indiana.