Imagine enjoying your favorite meal and flashing a confident smile. For many, dentures make this possible by restoring both function and aesthetics to their teeth. At Woodmeadow Dentistry, the team is dedicated to helping you understand the various types of dentures available and their associated costs, so you can make an informed decision about your dental health.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are designed to look and function like natural teeth, helping you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dentures are a solution for those who have lost teeth due to gum disease, decay, or injury.
Types of Dentures
There are several types of dentures, each suited to different needs and preferences. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right option for your situation.
Complete Dentures
- Full Dentures: Used when all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. Full dentures rest directly on the gums and are custom-made to fit your mouth.
- Immediate Dentures: Placed immediately after teeth are removed. They require more adjustments but allow you to avoid going without teeth during healing.
Partial Dentures
- Removable Partial Dentures: Used when some natural teeth remain. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, possibly connected by a metal framework.
- Fixed Partial Dentures (Bridges): Cemented in place and can only be removed by a dentist. Used when fewer teeth are missing and anchored to existing teeth or dental implants.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Supported by and attached to dental implants. They can be either partial or full dentures. Implant-supported dentures offer increased stability and help preserve the jawbone.
Costs of Different Dentures
The cost of dentures varies depending on the type, materials used, and additional procedures needed.
- Complete Dentures: Range from $1,000 to $3,000 per arch. Immediate dentures might cost more due to additional adjustments.
- Partial Dentures: Removable partial dentures typically cost between $700 and $1,800. Fixed partial dentures (bridges) can range from $1,500 to $6,000.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Generally more expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 per arch, including the implants and dentures.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Dentures
Complete Dentures
- Pros: Effective for those missing all teeth in an arch. Less expensive than implants.
- Cons: May require adhesives. Can cause bone loss in the jaw over time.
Partial Dentures
- Pros: Preserve remaining natural teeth. More affordable than full dentures.
- Cons: Removable types can be less stable. Fixed bridges require support from adjacent teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
- Pros: Superior stability and comfort. Help preserve jawbone and facial structure.
- Cons: Higher initial cost. Require surgery for implant placement.
Woodmeadow Dentistry: Your Partner in Dental Health
Understanding the types and costs of dentures can help you make the best decision for your dental health. Whether you need full, partial, or implant-supported dentures, Woodmeadow Dentistry is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you achieve a comfortable and confident smile.
A healthy smile is essential for well-being. Schedule your appointment with Woodmeadow Dentistry today to restore your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long do dentures last? Dentures typically last 5 to 10 years. They may need to be relined, rebased, or remade due to normal wear and changes in the mouth.
- Can I sleep with my dentures in? It’s recommended to remove dentures at night to allow your gums to rest and to clean your dentures properly.
- How do I care for my dentures? Clean dentures daily using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner. Soak them in a denture cleaning solution overnight to keep them free from bacteria.
- Will dentures affect my ability to eat and speak? Initially, you may experience some difficulty eating and speaking, but with practice, most people adapt well to dentures.
