In most dental offices, patients with substantial tooth loss are fitted for partial or full dentures that are crafted in a dental lab that could be located thousands of miles away. Some dentists have the skill and tools to make minor adjustments to these dentures after they are received, but in other instances, dentures have to be sent back to the lab for adjustment. Traditionally, dentists made full and partial dentures and other dental prosthetics in their dental office where they could ensure quality and precise fit for their patients. At Boyles General Dentistry, Dr. Franklin Boyles has continued to offer this service to his patients for more than four decades, and now, Dr. Stephen Boyles plans to follow his father’s example completing extensive hands on training to craft dental prosthetics for his patients. This unique service makes our dental office one of the most respected in all of West Texas, and we pride ourselves on offering personalized dentistry services that go beyond the norm to deliver exceptional care. Contact us to find out more or to schedule your appointment today to learn more about dentures.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used to replace a number of missing teeth along a single arch. A number of replacement teeth are set into a gum colored base that holds them in place. These dentures are precisely crafted to fill the gaps in patients’ smiles snapping into place like a puzzle piece. Metal bars or clasps are attached to healthy teeth in order to keep partials in place. Partial dentures should be removed and stored overnight, and patients should have their dentures examined during their twice a year dental checkups to ensure they maintain their shape and comfort.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are used to replace one or both complete arches of teeth. An entire row of replacement teeth is crafted to mimic the lost dental structure, and these prosthetic teeth are then attached to a gum-colored base. This base is crafted to fit snuggly against gum and jawbone structure creating suction that holds the denture in place. A well-crafted denture that is properly cared for and adjusted regularly should need very little if any denture adhesive to remain stable. Traditional dentures need to be removed, cleaned, and stored overnight in order to maintain their shape, but with proper at home care and regular maintenance in our dental office, patients are able to keep their dentures fitting well for years. For those patients interested in sturdier options, we also offer dental implant-supported partial and full dentures.
Immediate Dentures
In many cases, a patient needs a denture but doesn’t want to go without his or her teeth. In these cases patient’s teeth are extracted and dentures are immediately delivered after the extractions. This means that you as the patient walk out of the dental office with a full set of teeth in your mouth, transforming your appearance overnight.
Understanding the Cost of Dentures
As with most other dental treatments, most patients are concerned about how much high quality dentures are going to cost. We believe that no one who has suffered tooth loss should have to go without a complete, confident smile, which is why we do what we can to keep your costs as low as possible. Would you like to know more information about the price of your dentures? The best way is to schedule an appointment with us. At this consultation, we can go over your specific case and give you an accurate estimate.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Dentures
The price you pay for replacing your missing teeth depends on many things. One of the most basic factors is the number of teeth! Obviously, the more teeth you’ve lost, the more the denture will cost to compensate. If you require extraction as part of your treatment, this can increase the cost as well. It also matters whether you’re the teeth are along the upper or lower arch because upper dentures have a larger hard acrylic base colored to match gum tissue. In addition, the prosthetic teeth themselves can be made of porcelain or acrylic, and each of these options comes with a unique price tag.
Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?
Overall, implant dentures involve more time in the chair and more expertise to execute on our part. That is why they tend to cost more than traditional dentures. However, implant dentures do not need to be adjusted or replaced every five years or so. Over time, the cost of replacing dentures adds up, and many patients find they can actually save money in the long run with implant dentures. Plus, this advanced solution provides loads of benefits that traditional dentures can’t, such as added stability, jawbone strength and reinforcement, and easy maintenance.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?
In general, yes. The strong majority of dental insurance plans do cover about 50 percent of the cost of dentures. Before we work on creating your prosthetic teeth, we’ll review your policy to confirm your coverage, making sure you’re getting the most value from the benefits you’re entitled and helping you maximize your savings. Once we understand your coverage better, we can let you know what you’ll owe out-of-pocket.
Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable
Although our practice make every effort to work with nearly all dental insurances, not everyone can afford dental insurance, or certain workers or small business owners may not have ins. Whether you have or don’t have dental insurance, the cost of your dentures may still be overwhelming to pay in one lump sum, especially if you are on a fixed income. We can help you in your application for financing through CareCredit. This trusted third-party lender allows you to steadily pay off your dentures monthly, easing any financial burden. To learn more about our payment options, you can contact our office and ask!
Denture FAQs
When it comes to tooth replacement, dentures are a tried-and-true solution. If you’re currently researching whether it’s the right option for you, you may have some important questions on your mind. Is it hard to talk with dentures? Is there anything you can’t eat with dentures? Can you kiss with dentures? Don’t worry – we are answering all of these questions and more here.
What Qualifies You for Dentures?
The good news is that, thanks to advancements in dentistry, nearly anyone struggling with tooth loss is a candidate! The three types (partial, full, and implant-retained) are designed to help patients struggling with moderate to advanced tooth loss, effectively restoring their smile, bite, speech, and overall quality of life. If any preliminary treatments are needed beforehand, like a tooth extraction, your denture dentist will discuss the next best steps during your initial consultation.
Is It Hard to Talk with Dentures?
When you first get your dentures, it’s natural to experience a brief adjustment period as your mouth and tongue get used to their presence. Fortunately, the large majority of patients adapt quickly. Plus, there are a few best practices you can implement to speed up the process. For example, read a magazine, book, or article out loud. If you come across a more difficult word, like “sixty,” then repeat it until it begins to feel natural. Throughout the process, do your best to be patient and go slowly. Biting down and swallowing before speaking can help too!
What Can’t You Eat with Dentures?
Even one missing tooth can negatively impact your dining experience. Luckily, dentures can restore your bite, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods again. With that being said, sticky products, like peanut butter, can tug on your dentures and make it difficult to eat. Hard treats, such as shelled nuts and peanut brittle, also have the ability to damage your prosthetic teeth, which is why indulging sparingly is ideal. Lastly, tough meats that require extensive chewing power, like steak, should be avoided as well.
Can You Kiss with Dentures?
Yes! Kissing with dentures is certainly possible. Like speaking, however, there may be an adjustment period. That’s why it’s best to be gentle. For extra stability, consider using some denture adhesive.
Can I Use Regular Toothpaste to Clean My Dentures?
In short, the answer is no. The abrasive texture of regular toothpaste can scratch the surface of your dentures, leaving them looking damaged and unnatural. So, while you definitely need to clean your dentures daily, you need to do so with the right products. A soft-bristled toothbrush, mild dishwashing liquid, and a dentist-recommended denture cleaner are a great place to start.