The decision to get dentures is a big one. Will they be the best option for you? Most people worry about the process and experience as well as what life will be like once they have dentures. The good news is your dental care provider can work closely with you to ensure you understand exactly what to expect. Here are answers to some of the most common questions people ask before getting dentures.
Exactly What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable artificial teeth. Today’s products are very natural and realistic looking. There are various forms, including both partial and full dentures. The type you need depends on the number of teeth missing or that need to be removed from your mouth. These artificial teeth work well to improve your bite, chewing ability, and smile. Most modern products are custom-fitted to your mouth to create a comfortable, visually natural look.
Are They Just Like Teeth?
Dentures function similar to how your teeth work, but they will never feel the same as standard teeth. Dentures slip into and out of the mouth, allowing you to clean them and store them overnight. If not designed well, they can interfere with your ability to speak and, over time, can cause dangerous irritations. This is why it is critical to choose a denture specialist.
What Are Full and Partial Dentures?
Your dental care provider will talk to you about the use of dentures. During an oral exam, you will learn more about how they can benefit you. You will also learn if partial or full dentures are best for your needs.
Partial Dentures
This type of denture replaces several teeth but not necessarily all of them. This method is most commonly used for those who have areas of missing teeth but whose natural existing teeth and gum line are not strong enough to support dental bridges. They are fitted to the part of the gum the denture will sit on and supported by the existing natural teeth.
Full Dentures
As the name implies, this type of denture replaces all the teeth in the mouth. It is fitted for the top or bottom of the gum line (both top and bottom can be replaced). They are held in place by suction and, in some cases, oral adhesive.
What Is the Process of Getting Dentures?
When you visit your dental office for dentures, you will have a full consultation to discuss your oral health. Your dentist will make recommendations for your dentures based on your current needs. For example, you may need to have your existing teeth removed. This process is the first step, and there will be a waiting period after to allow your gums to heal and the swelling to reduce before the final dentures are created.
Most of the time, you will have immediate dentures created. They are created prior to the removal of your teeth, and then they are used after the tooth extraction takes place. This allows plenty of time for your gums to heal. After four to six months, you will be fitted for your final dentures.
Who Benefits From the Investment in Dentures?
Investing in dentures can help many people who have complex dental health problems. Individuals who have lost teeth, or who have numerous teeth that need to be removed, may benefit the most from dentures. They can provide a number of benefits including:
- Improving your ability to chew.
- Improve your confidence by giving you a beautiful smile.
- Improving your ability to talk.
- Reducing the number of infections or irritations in your mouth.
- Improving your health by giving you the ability to eat a wider variety of foods.
Whether or not you will benefit from dentures depends on your overall dental health and other procedures available to you.
Are Dentures Better Than Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of tooth replacement as well. Dentures tend to be several teeth strung together. They are removable from your mouth, whereas dental implants are implanted directly into the bone. Implants create a very realistic-looking tooth, and they can be a good option for those who need to replace just one or a few teeth. However, dental implants are significantly more costly and they take longer to create.
You may wish to consider investing in dentures now and then, over time, upgrade to dental implants. However, you do not have to do this. Many people do well with dentures and like the way they look and feel.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
A very common concern for many people is the cost of dentures. Their costs range widely. Some dental health insurance policies offer coverage for them. Because you should have an oral exam before determining if dentures are right for you, this is the best first step for most people. A consultation will discuss all the options available to you as well as whether or not you are a candidate for dentures.
Your Dental Health Partners offers the information and insight you need to make the best decisions for your oral health. We encourage you to come in for a consultation to learn more about getting dentures.
