Facebook Pixel

Dentures - The Facts, Types and Costs

By HERWriter
 
Rate This

Tooth loss may result from periodontal disease/gum disease, tooth decay, or traumatic injury. It is very important to replace missing teeth. The ill effects of not doing so can be a shift in remaining teeth, an inability to bite and chew properly, as well as a sagging facial appearance, which makes one appear older than they are. Dentures are a way of replacing missing teeth.

Dentures come in many shapes and sizes. Types of dentures include full dentures, partial dentures, over dentures, immediate dentures, precision partial dentures, and implant retained dentures.

Complete dentures are used to replace missing teeth for people with no remaining teeth. Dentures may also be used for people who have lost several teeth. In this case, the appliance is called a partial denture or an overdenture. Dentures can be created to chew against natural teeth, fixed bridges, implant supported crowns or bridges, or almost any other type of dental prosthesis.

Complete dentures can range in price from $300 to $8,000. The cost of dentures varies depending on whether the denture is full or partial, and whether the denture is implant retained or resting on natural soft tissue. Also, the difference in cost is related to the fabrication time, cost of dental materials, and the experience of the dentist. An experienced dentist may take 15 hours and five to six appointments to complete the process of making complete dentures. The cost range does not include fees associated with possible oral surgery or tooth extraction. Depending on the type of dental insurance you have, insurance companies may offer a 15 percent reimbursement or 50 percent absorption of the total procedure costs.

Many times, warranties are offered on dentures. Some warranties may be for one to two years, while others may run up to 10 years.

The beauty of dentures today is that they are designed to be comfortable and functional. They are very similar in appearance to natural teeth, and can improve a smile or facial appearance. Dental materials are selected by the patient and the dentist. For example, highly cross-linked polymer denture teeth are more esthetic and do not wear as much as conventional plastic teeth and are more expensive. There are different metals that can be used in removable partial dentures that may also increase the cost.

Dentures if made and maintained correctly can last twenty or thirty years, or longer.

It is important to inquire about the dentist's training and experience when investigating the denture procedure. For example, many general dentists perform the denture procedure. Yet, prosthodontists receive three years of advanced training in restorative dentistry. The American College of Prosthodontists offers additional resource information about the training of prosthodontists in the U.S.

To find out if you are a candidate for an immediate, tissue-supported, removable, or implant-supported denture request a comprehensive exam and treatment plan from your dentist.

Sources:
http://www.prosthodontics.org/
http://www.ada.org
http://www.webmd.com
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dentures

# # #

MC Ortega is a senior communications and messaging executive specializing in media relations, social media, program development and crisis communications. Ortega is the former publicist for the late Walter Payton and Coca-Cola. Also, Ortega is an avid traveler and international shopper. Ortega resides with her partner, Craig, dog, Fionne and extensive shoe collection. Ortega also enjoys jewelry design/production and flamenco dancing.

Add a Comment1 Comments

I went to my dad's house to visit him a few days ago. He didn't have his dentures in which is very abnormal for him. He explained to me that he thought he might have broken them somehow because they weren't fitting like they should. I offered to help him get them repaired so he could wear them again.
http://www.denturedoctor.com.au/services

August 12, 2014 - 8:59am
Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.
By submitting this form, you agree to EmpowHER's terms of service and privacy policy
Add a Comment

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

Dental & Oral Health

Get Email Updates

Dental & Oral Health Guide

Have a question? We're here to help. Ask the Community.

ASK

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!