A vibrant smile is not only a symbol of joy but also an integral part of one’s confidence and well-being. However, tooth loss can significantly impact a person’s ability to smile confidently. Dentures, a time-tested restorative dentistry solution, offer a way to restore not only the aesthetics of a smile but also the functionality of natural teeth.
Today, dentures offer patients unmatched comfort and performance, allowing them to eat, speak, and smile with total ease. If you’d like to explore dentures in Dallas, TX, contact Lakewood Dental Group today. Our team can help you find a solution that works for your smile, budget, and lifestyle. Just dial (214) 827-1885 to book your appointment now!
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the different types of dentures, the denture procedure, associated costs, the longevity of dentures, and the crucial aspects of proper denture care. Our goal is to help you see how these prosthetic appliances can transform your smile and well-being, leading to a better quality of life. Let’s get started!
Types of Dentures
Tooth loss can be partial or total. But, no matter the extent of tooth loss, replacing teeth as soon as possible is always best. Otherwise, unaddressed tooth loss can lead to systemic issues, such as malnutrition and cardiovascular issues.
Because tooth loss can be so variable, dentures come in various forms. Each type of appliance caters to different dental needs. To address total tooth loss, dentists can create complete dentures. On the other hand, dentists can create partial dentures to address intermittent tooth loss.
Complete Dentures
Complete dentures provide patients with a full set of artificial teeth that effectively replace their smiles. When it comes to complete restorations, patients have a few options, including:
- Conventional Dentures: Typically, dentists recommend these appliances if a patient has lost all of their teeth or if they need to extract the remainder of their teeth. These appliances are removable, which means that patients must use some type of adhesive to keep them immobile while wearing them. A dental laboratory must create conventional dentures from scratch to ensure that they fit each patient perfectly. This process typically spans several weeks.
- Immediate Dentures: Dentists prepare these kinds of appliances in advance, typically as a means of giving patients a way to speak and chew following tooth extraction. While these types of dentures are not as polished or effective as custom-made appliances, they offer patients a distinct advantage – not having to endure the healing period after extraction without teeth. Just be warned: patients may need frequent adjustments as their gums heal and reshape after extraction.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures are a type of conventional denture that provides patients with unsurpassed stability and strength. Rather than relying on bone tissue and adhesives, these appliances attach directly to dental implants that have fused with the jawbone. This means that implant-supported restorations look, feel, and act just like natural teeth.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are ideal for patients with spotty tooth loss. This means that they are great for patients with some of their natural, healthy teeth remaining. When it comes to partial restorations, patients have a couple of options, including:
- Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs): Dental professionals specifically create these restorations for individuals who want a non-permanent option to work alongside their remaining natural teeth. RPDs consist of replacement teeth attached to a metal or acrylic base, often secured with clasps around existing teeth.
- Fixed Partial Dentures (FPDs): For the most part, these appliances go by the name of ‘dental bridge’. While other partial dentures are removable, these appliances are not. This means that they are securely attached to neighboring teeth or dental implants. While these dental bridges offer more stability than RPDs, they pose some complications, particularly when conducting oral hygiene.
The Denture Procedure
Acquiring dentures involves a series of steps to ensure a custom fit and a natural appearance. Let’s explore what you could expect during the process, from start to finish.
Initial Consultation
To kick off the restoration process, patients must attend a thorough examination. This examination helps dentists assess their oral health, discuss the need for potential extractions, and explore all possible tooth replacement options.
Tooth Extraction (if needed)
In some cases, patients may need their remaining teeth pulled before proceeding with denture treatment. Dentists always try to salvage natural teeth if they can, but some teeth are damaged or decayed beyond repair. If this is the case, a dentist may recommend complete extraction before administering dentures.
Impressions
In order to make perfectly fitted appliances, dentists must get a detailed impression of the patient’s gums before creating their dentures. Dental professionals can accomplish this by creating an old-fashioned mold using dental-grade putty, or they can use digital imaging software to get a topographical representation of the patient’s mouth.
Fitting
During the crafting process, dentists can use wax models and unfinished prosthetics to tweak and adjust a patient’s final device. This may take some time, but a properly fitting appliance makes a world of difference.
Final Denture Production
Of course, immediate dentures provide patients with a set of new teeth right away. However, the finalized product takes time and durable materials to complete. Once these final dentures are complete, dentists ensure their fit and function before sending patients off with their new smiles!
Cost Considerations
Dentures are not one-size-fits-all, so their associated costs are not one-price-fits-all. Indeed, these restorative devices can vary in price due to the materials used, the type of denture being created, and the complexity of the case.
Nevertheless, patients pay, on average, between $1,000 to $3,000 per complete denture. Typically, partial dentures cost slightly less, with data suggesting that they can range, on average, from $700 and $1,800 per device.
Checking with dental insurance providers is essential. In many cases, insurance providers partially or totally cover dentures and their associated costs. This can be a relief to many patients, as it may alleviate a decent portion of their out-of-pocket expenses.
Longevity of Dentures
Many patients can enjoy their restorations for as long as a decade. However, dentures require proper upkeep and care to accomplish a long and healthy lifespan.
Proper Denture Care
Let’s explore proper denture care so that you can get the most out of your appliance:
Cleaning
Daily brushing with a soft (never hard!) bristled brush is imperative. If removable, patients can brush their appliances with a certified denture cleanser. If permanent, patients can simply use their favorite, non-abrasive toothpaste to clean their dentures.
Oral Hygiene
After cleaning dentures, it’s best to brush the gums, tongue, palate, and any remaining teeth with a soft toothbrush and non-whitening toothpaste.
Soaking
All dentures work best when moist. So, patients with removable appliances should also stow their devices in a denture-cleaning solution or warm water at night.
Handle with Care
Dental restorations are strong, but they are not indestructible. So, be sure to handle them carefully and avoid dropping them.
Regular Check-Ups
Regular dental appointments keep restorations working and feeling as they should. Don’t skip out on regular check-ups!
Partial and Complete Dentures in Dallas, TX
Dentures are a great option for patients living with total or partial tooth loss. If you’d like to explore your options with a team of professionals, contact Lakewood Dental Group today. You can reach us online anytime, or you can talk to our friendly team directly at (214) 827-1885.
