What are dentures?
Dentures are appliances used to replace missing teeth. There are various types of dentures, typically classified by the number of teeth they replace. Complete dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, meaning all the top or bottom teeth. Partial dentures, on the other hand, replace anywhere from one to about ten or eleven teeth. Partial dentures do not replace all teeth; they fill in gaps while you retain some of your natural teeth.
What type of dental professional would I see about getting dentures?
The dental professionals who usually make dentures are either general dentists or prosthodontists. Many general dentists create dentures, but if a patient's situation is more complex, they may be referred to a prosthodontist. Prosthodontists specialize in dentures, bridges, and similar dental procedures.
When would a dentist recommend getting dentures?
A dentist might recommend dentures when a patient is missing many teeth and needs them to chew or smile. Additionally, if a patient's teeth are in poor condition—broken, worn down, or infected—and saving them is cost-prohibitive or not advisable due to a poor prognosis, dentures may be recommended. Dentures are also a good option for someone missing a few teeth who needs replacements to fill gaps but prefers not to undergo other procedures.
What are some alternatives to dentures and when would each be the most appropriate option?
Alternatives to dentures for replacing teeth include bridges and implants. A bridge involves placing crowns on teeth adjacent to gaps, supporting additional crowns to fill the spaces left by missing teeth. Implants are a more permanent option, involving placing a post into the jawbone with a crown attached. Both implants and bridges are viable alternatives to dentures.
What is a fixed or permanent denture?
We've discussed various types of dentures, such as complete and partial dentures. There is also a distinction between removable and fixed dentures. A removable denture can be taken out by the patient or dentist, typically at night. Fixed dentures are attached to the mouth, usually by screws onto implants, and are not easily removed. While fixed dentures can be removed, it requires a more complex procedure performed by a dentist.
What is a removable denture?
A removable denture can be placed and removed by the patient. These dentures may attach to remaining teeth using clips or clasps. Full removable dentures can also be implant-supported or tissue-supported. A tissue-supported denture is held in place by suction and removed by breaking the seal. Implant-supported dentures attach to implants but can be unsnapped and removed by the patient. Complete dentures on the lower arch are generally not recommended unless supported by implants for stability.
How are dentures made and what materials are used?
To make dentures, we collaborate with a dental lab. We take pictures or molds in our office and send them to the lab, which fabricates the denture. This process usually involves several appointments and takes about a month to a month and a half for the denture to be ready for the patient.
What happens during the denture placement procedure?
We first assess the patient's mouth for non-implant-supported, tissue-supported dentures. For a full denture, any infected or broken teeth should be removed before taking impressions. These impressions are sent to a lab, which creates a denture over several appointments. For patients who do not want all teeth removed initially, we use an immediate denture approach. Impressions are taken with teeth still in place, and a denture is made based on a model with removed teeth. When the denture is ready, any remaining problem teeth are extracted, and the denture is placed. For implant-supported dentures, implants are placed first, then molds are taken to fit the denture onto the implants. Partial dentures are made by creating molds of the mouth to fit and secure the denture to existing teeth using clips or clasps.
Is getting dentures painful?
Generally, getting dentures is not painful. Some discomfort may occur when molds are taken, as the process can be somewhat overwhelming. If extractions or implants are involved, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, reducing discomfort during the procedure.
What anesthesia options will be available during the denture procedure?
If implants are placed or teeth extracted, we use local anesthesia to numb the area and minimize discomfort. For patients with anxiety or fear, we also offer laughing gas and conscious sedation.
What should I expect my dentures to look and feel like?
Our goal is for your dentures to look and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. While they may not feel exactly like natural teeth, dentures serve as a replacement for no teeth rather than a direct replacement for natural teeth. If you have no teeth, dentures are an excellent solution, but they may not feel as good as natural teeth.
Is it more difficult to speak with dentures?
There is usually a learning curve when speaking with dentures due to the new sensation in your mouth. Initially, some people may lisp, salivate more, or have difficulty controlling speech until they adjust to speaking, eating, and moving with dentures.
Will having dentures affect my ability to eat and drink regularly?
Our goal is for your dentures to be as stable and solid as possible. However, some adjustments and changes are often necessary when eating with dentures compared to natural teeth. Dentures may move slightly more than natural teeth, bridges, or implants, but they provide a better option than having no teeth at all.
What is the best way to clean and care for dentures?
For fixed dentures, brush around the denture as you would with natural teeth and clean above them as much as possible using mouthwash and warm salt water. For removable dentures, take them out at bedtime, brush them inside and out, and soak them once a week in a denture tablet solution to maintain freshness and prevent plaque and odor buildup.
What special care should I take for my mouth and gums after getting dentures?
Keeping your mouth as clean and healthy as possible is essential. Brush and floss any remaining natural teeth thoroughly and clean your dentures diligently. Avoid sleeping with dentures, as this can increase the risk of cavities and gum sores or ulcers. Remove dentures for at least 8 to 10 hours a day to allow your mouth and gums to rest.
How long will dentures last?
The lifespan of dentures depends on how well they are cared for and the level of use. Some patients have dentures lasting 15 to 20 years, while others may need replacements every 3 to 5 years. Proper care and maintenance will extend the life of your dentures.
What if my dentures need restoration, replacement, or a repair?
If dentures break or lose a tooth, repairs are often possible. Many times, repairs can be done in-office or sent to a lab. If the damage is extensive, fabricating a new denture may be necessary.
How long will it take for my mouth to heal and get used to dentures?
The recovery period depends on the extent of work needed before creating the denture. If teeth are extracted or implants are placed, recovery may take longer. Generally, patients adapt to dentures within four to six weeks.
What is the cost of dentures and will insurance help pay for them?
If you need dentures and have insurance, the insurance will typically cover a portion of the cost. The entire cost may not be covered, and it also depends on additional procedures, such as extractions, crowns, or implants. The cost of a denture alone ranges from $1,800 to $2,800, with prices increasing if additional treatments are required.
When should I schedule an appointment for dentures?
If you believe dentures would be a suitable option for you, please call our office as soon as possible to discuss it. We'll assess your dental situation and determine if dentures are the right fit for you.