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Dentures: Types, Cleaning and Cost

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By Living Well Dental Group

If you are missing some or all of your natural teeth, you can start to lose fullness in your face. Partial or full dentures can help restore your look back to the way it was when you weren’t missing teeth. A denture is a removable appliance that replaces your missing teeth. So what kinds of dentures are there and what is the cost of dentures?

What is a denture?

A denture is a removable appliance that replaces your missing teeth. If you are missing all of your natural teeth, it is considered a full denture. If you’re missing some of your natural teeth, it is considered a partial denture. Whether you need a partial or full denture, they’re custom made, which means you can choose the color, shape and size of your teeth.

Types of Dentures:

  • Complete Dentures: There are 3 types of complete dentures
    • Conventional dentures: This full removable denture is made and placed after the teeth have been removed and healed. This can take weeks to months after the teeth have been removed.
    • Immediate Dentures: This removable denture is made before the teeth have been removed. This type of denture may require additional adjustments during the healing process.
    • Overdentures: Sometimes some natural teeth can be saved. An Overdenture would fit over the few remaining natural teeth. These natural teeth can help to secure the denture into place.
  • Partial Dentures: A partial denture is removable and used when a small number of natural teeth still remain in the mouth. The partial denture will usually have clasps that wrap around the side of a natural tooth. These clasps give the partial denture stability when chewing and speaking.

Does insurance cover the cost of dentures?

Insurance will sometimes cover all or some of the cost of dentures. At Living Well Dental Group, we’d be happy to do a complimentary benefit check to see if the cost of dentures are covered by your plan.

How to care for your denture?

Dentures like your natural teeth need to be cleaned. It is best to rinse your denture after each meal. When brushing your denture be sure to use a soft toothbrush that is intended for use with a denture. Dentures can be scratched with a toothbrush or toothpaste that is too abrasive. A mild hand or dishwashing soap is recommended for use to clean a denture.

How long before I get used to my dentures?

It may take a few weeks or months to get used to your new dentures. Keep practicing until you get used to them. You may also notice excess saliva flow at first.

Eating with Dentures:

Eating with dentures may prove to be a bit tricky at first. Cut food into small bites in the beginning until you get used to your new denture. Adhesives can be applied to your denture to help it stay in place while eating.

Will Dentures change how I speak?

When you first get your new denture, pronouncing certain words may be difficult. Remember to continue practicing these more difficult words until they become easy to say with your denture in place.

Should I wear dentures 24 hours a day?

This is really up to each individual dental provider. They will discuss with you the best way to wear your denture for your best individual outcome.

How long do dentures last?

As we age our face changes, which is why dentures will require some maintenance over time. They will need to be relined or rebased if they become loose. With good care a denture should last 7-10 years. Even if you have dentures you should still see your dentist regularly to evaluate your gum tissue, screen for oral cancers and evaluate your denture.

Dentures are a good solution for replacing missing teeth. They require some getting used to and maintenance over time. Each type of denture has its own advantages, therefore, visiting your dentist is the best way to determine what type of denture would best fit your needs.

Naperville’s Denture Experts

If you’re concerned about the cost of dentures, how your denture is fitting, or trying to decide if a denture is right for you, call today 630-505-1516. Our friendly dental experts can answer any questions you might have and get you scheduled today.