Dentures are an effective way to bring back your smile for those with missing teeth. Undoubtedly, it may be a cost-effective way to restore your smile, especially if you miss nearly all your teeth. Nonetheless, people may develop questions about dentures regardless of whether they are getting dentures or if they know someone who has them. In most cases, these questions can focus on how dentures can improve overall oral health or how to handle them with care.
Are you looking for dentures near you? Moreover, some people are interested in what these prosthetics consist of and whether or not they are the right solution for dental concerns. This article aims to educate on dentures and provide information about everything you need to know about this dental restoration.
What Are Dentures?
The most appropriate way to begin this article is to define what dentures are. These devices are artificial teeth and gums created to replace missing natural teeth. The artificial gum structure in the dentures acts as a support structure and holds the artificial teeth in place. Even though the materials used to make artificial teeth in dentures are hard, they are not anywhere near as strong as natural teeth. That implies that patients need to replace their dentures due to the wear and tear that comes with everyday use.
Types of Dentures
There are two different types of dentures.
1. Partial dentures – these are typically an alternative to other teeth replacement procedures. They come in handy if the surrounding natural teeth around the gap are not sufficiently strong to serve as reinforcement structures for dental prosthetics like bridges.
2. Full dentures – are also called complete dentures. They are a healthy option when a patient is missing all-natural teeth.
What Are They Made Out of?
Conventionally, porcelain or plastic was used to make artificial teeth that makeup dentures. However, modern dentures are made out of hard resin. The resin materials are more fragile than natural teeth. Additionally, the resin can easily chip or crack if dropped or improperly handled. Resin is also known to wear down much quicker than natural teeth and thus requires replacement every five years or so. Dentures include supporting structures that hold the artificial teeth in place and resemble the natural gum line. It is made of a similar resin used for making the teeth. A more flexible polymer of resin material that fits snugly on the natural gum line may be used. If you are searching for dentures near you, ask our dental specialist what materials they offer.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Many patients tend to invest more in quality dentures rather than obtaining cheaper ones, which may become problematic. The life span of dentures depends largely on how well one takes care of them. On average, dentures may last between five to eight years. However, dentures might need adjustments even after a year because the gum tissue naturally changes and diminishes over time. In turn, that may cause the dentures fit to change.
That makes it crucial for patients with dentures to maintain regular dentist appointments. It makes it easier for our dentist to ensure that dentures fit correctly and adjust them if need be. Consequently, this prevents dentures from causing irritation and mouth sores. If our dentist is far, you can visit our dental specialist to get your dentures adjusted.
How to Preserve Dentures
Dentists recommend that patients should always remove their dentures before sleeping. That helps avoid damage, dislodges, and gives the gums time to relax. Ideally, you should fully submerge the dentures in warm but not hot water, especially in the evening before bed. That keeps them from drying out and warping. Using any soaking solution may tarnish the metallic components of the dentures (if any). You should visit our dentist’s office near you to get the best denture-soaking solution if your dentures are non-metallic.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Indeed, the cost of dentures varies based on various factors. This includes factors such as the materials used, your location, and whether you are obtaining full or partial dentures.
With insurance coverage, the cost of partial dentures ranges from one thousand to two thousand dollars for both the top and bottom. Partial dentures may cost up to four or three thousand dollars without insurance coverage. Full dentures can range from one thousand dollars to three thousand with insurance. Without insurance, they may reach up to four thousand dollars.
At Harmony Dental, we treasure our patients and love to help them form good oral health. For more information or assistance, do not hesitate to contact us.