Losing a few teeth or even one tooth is bad enough, but if an entire arch is gone, you’ll need to find a functional, stable replacement as soon as possible in order to eat, speak and smile with confidence again. At Saginaw Dental, we offer both full dentures and partial dentures depending on the extent of tooth loss. If you’re looking at a toothless future, contact us today!
Whether you are missing several teeth or all of your teeth, almost anyone can get dentures. To find out if dentures are right for you, schedule a consultation with us. If you don’t immediately make a good candidate, this doesn’t mean you should rule them out going forward. By restoring the health of your gum tissue and bone structure, dentures could be in your future!
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, the most common causes of missing teeth are tooth decay, gum disease, and injuries/accidents! When you are missing teeth, you can experience a variety of negative side effects that will affect you daily. They include facial sagging, difficulty speaking, trouble eating, and lower self-esteem.
If you have experienced significant tooth loss or have extensive decay, dentures may be a great option for you. As long as you have healthy gum tissue and a significant amount of jawbone, you are likely to make a good candidate. If you opt for dentures, it is crucial that you are committed to your dental hygiene routine and able to properly care for your prosthesis.
The type of denture you get will depend on the number of teeth you are missing. One of the great things about dentures is the fact that they are more affordable than other tooth replacement options, making them ideal for patients who are unable to invest a lot of money into their smile at this time.
Patients who don’t make a good candidate for dentures or are interested in other options may want to consider the following alternatives:
Dentures are prosthetic teeth usually made of acrylic resin or sturdy plastics. They’re attached to a base that’s designed to blend in with the gums. The kind of dentures you get depends on the level of tooth loss:
Have you ever wondered what kind of technologies and skills go into the fabrication of dentures? Unfortunately, there’s no “denture store” where Dr. Renkuntla can simply pick one out and give it to you! Every prosthetic must be custom-made for a patient with exact specifications to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. If you’re curious about the process we use here at Saginaw Dental to deliver a quality denture every time, you can continue reading below!
Depending on the type of denture you receive, it can be made of slightly different materials. All the artificial teeth in a denture are made of highly durable porcelain because of its slight translucence that gives the appearance of natural teeth. The base these prosthetic crowns are attached to is typically made from acrylic that has been colorized to match your existing gum tissue. If you have a partial denture, it will be fitted with metal clasps that hold it in place around your remaining teeth. These elements create a lightweight yet sturdy prosthetic that will last for many years with proper care.
Every denture is custom-made, so there is a multi-step process that typically takes a few weeks to go from start to finish:
Once you have your denture, it’s normal to undergo a small adjustment period. There may be some slight discomfort, difficulty eating, or gently altered speech. However, all these inconveniences are temporary, and you should see them fade after a month or so. Handling dentures is a skill, so you may need to practice by speaking often or reading books aloud. In addition, focusing on soft foods to begin with will help you develop the muscle control you need to be successful.
An incomplete smile can leave you feeling insecure, but dentures can help restore your confidence; you’ll find yourself being much more likely to show off your grin at important business meetings or social events.
Dentures will let you enjoy a full diet again. Without them, you’ll be restricted to only consuming liquids, which can lead to all kinds of nutritional problems. With your new teeth, you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods with few restrictions.
Finally, while you might need some practice at first, dentures can help you speak normally and clearly again.
If your mouth and jawbone are healthy enough, you can get dentures that are supported by dental implants. Implants offer extra stability for your false teeth so that you’ll never have to worry about them slipping while you’re talking or laughing. They’re also the only kind of restoration that can replace the roots of your teeth and prevent jawbone deterioration. As for eating, the additional chewing strength of dental implants means that there are even fewer diet restrictions than with regular dentures.
By far, one of the biggest advantages for dental implants is their longevity. They can last for decades – or the rest of your life – with the proper maintenance, which is as simple as maintaining excellent oral hygiene.
The cost of your dentures will vary based on numerous factors. No two smiles are the same, which is why the best way to receive a precise estimate is to visit our office for a consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Renkuntla will discuss your goals, examine your mouth, and review your medical history before developing a personalized plan. Keep reading to learn more about what impacts the cost of dentures in Saginaw.
There are three main factors that influence the cost of your dentures:
Remember that cheaper does not necessarily mean better. Investing in the health of your smile means choosing a quality denture. Don’t settle for subpar acrylic materials just because you like the price!
Yes, implant dentures are usually more expensive, but this is for good reason. By combining dentures with implants, you’ll gain access to a number of unique benefits you wouldn’t be able to enjoy with other options. This includes improved confidence, a better eating experience, and easier speaking. Additionally, dental implants stimulate the jawbone to prevent it from deteriorating, which helps you maintain a fuller, more youthful facial appearance. Plus, dental implants last for decades, which can actually save you money in the long run from avoiding replacements. Traditional dentures require a replacement every 5 to 7 years.
Dentures in Saginaw are considered a major procedure, which is why most insurance providers will cover about 50% of your treatment. However, this will vary from plan to plan. We advise checking with your insurance before making any final decisions. Our friendly and experienced front desk team is always happy to communicate with your provider directly to maximize your benefits while minimizing your out-of-pocket costs.
If you don’t have insurance coverage, no need to worry! At Saginaw Dental, we are committed to providing amazing and affordable dental care to accommodate all budgets. That’s why we have special offers like free second opinions, which could be your initial denture consultation. Additionally, we accept alternative financing through CareCredit. With this budget-friendly solution, you’ll choose the monthly payment option that works best for you. As an added bonus, this payment plan comes with low-to-no interest, making it a popular choice for those who want dentures but don’t have insurance. Please don’t hesitate to contact our office to schedule an appointment with our denture dentist in Saginaw.
Dentures in Saginaw are a tried-and-proven solution to treat significant tooth loss; however, it’s normal to have a few concerns before you’re ready to commit to them. Don’t worry, we’ll explain everything during your consultation. While you wait, here are the answers to a few of the most common questions we are asked by our patients.
It can be pretty embarrassing getting caught without your teeth, but you don’t want to sleep with your dentures in your mouth. However, your denture dentist in Saginaw will recommend wearing them for a full 24 hours after getting them, even while you’re sleeping. After that, it’s best to remove them nightly to give your gums time to rest. The circulation in your gums is decreased while they are in your mouth. Without a break to recover, gum irritation can quickly occur. Not to mention, it may even speed up resorption. By removing your dentures before heading to bed, your soft tissues can get the nutrients they need. You’ll also decrease your risk of odors, pneumonia, and plaque. The overnight break is a great opportunity to clean your mouth and dentures to reduce harmful bacteria that can accumulate throughout the day. Remember to keep your dentures in a soaking solution whenever you aren’t wearing them to prevent them from drying out.
Tooth loss doesn’t discriminate based on age. As a result, you’re never too old or young for dentures. Research shows at least 66% of adults between the ages of 40 – 64 have lost at least one tooth, whereas only 33% of adults between 20 to 29 years of age have one or more missing teeth. Typically, full or partial dentures are most often needed after the age of 60. According to the American Dental Association, 57% of people over the age of 65 wear some type of denture. Although there isn’t a specific age for them, the need generally increases with age.
Dentures come in many forms, including those that don’t cover the soft palate on the roof of your mouth. Covering the palate can cause your ability to taste food to decrease, but a horseshoe-shaped option resolves the problem. It looks similar to a denture used on the lower arch for optimal comfort and satisfaction. You can expect implant dentures to have the same shape. Your dentist will learn more about your preferences and discuss all your options to choose a denture you’ll be satisfied with.
Although your dentures aren’t subject to tooth decay, they need to be cleaned daily but don’t use regular toothpaste because it is abrasive. It can leave small scratches on your denture that can damage it over time. Instead, it’s better to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap. It’s best to clean your dentures after every meal to prolong their lifespan.