Implant placement: The dental implants, which resemble small screws made of titanium, are surgically placed in the jawbone. In effect, a dental implant replaces the tooth's natural root. Each implant is inserted into the gums and jawbone through a small incision. One of the advantages of implant-supported dentures is that fewer implants can be placed than teeth. For complete upper dentures, between six and eight implants are placed. For complete lower dentures, four to five implants are placed. After the implants have been placed, the gums and bone will take three to six months to grown in around the implant, a process called osseointegration.
It is extremely important to practice healthy dental hygiene when wearing dentures. There is an increased risk of developing a more serious medical condition should oral irritation result from improper dental hygiene. These conditions include, but are not limited to, periodontal disease, leukoplakia (thickened white, potentially precancerous patches on the mucous membranes, also called smoker’s tongue) and fungal (denture stomatitis) infections.
Partial dentures, or partials, are dentures that replace only a few missing teeth in the patient’s mouth. Partials rest on a metal framework that will be latched onto the patient’s natural teeth for support. If the patient’s existing teeth are insufficient, dental crowns are usually used to augment the natural teeth and serve as more stable anchors for the partial dentures.
FRANKLIN, INDIANA -- On June 19 and 20, 2013, I visited Affordable Dentures, Franklin, Indiana, to receive same-day partials. From the clinic published offerings, I selected what is termed "The Premium Package," at a cost of $1780. The Package consists of a set of full or partial dentures, with the promise of being allowed to return at any time during the first year of wear for repair and adjustments. A final set is then placed in the patient's mouth. The words "at any time" echo throughout the clinic as the patients are being fitted for teeth, and again, as they leave: "You may come back any time you need to." That promise turns out to be a lie, particularly for purchasers of The Package.
I had a really great experience with Affordable Dentures and Implants. My mom has always been afraid of dentists and didn't take care of her teeth. She also had a stroke a few years back which has created a few more barriers to treatment. It's difficult to explain to anyone who doesn't personally know a stroke survivor, but she gets antsy pretty quickly and can be a bit difficult to work with at times. She's also physically handicapped and can't use her left side, plus is having trouble transferring from her wheelchair to other seats, getting into a helpful position, and following directions, so it's a bit of a unique situation.
The Premium Denture is very high in natural appearance. It features enhanced natural appeal, wear and stain resistance, with detailed customization. As with the UltimateFit and EconomyPlus Dentures, the Premium’s extra-high density teeth are first set in wax for you to try in. Changes may be made at that time. After you have approved the look of your Premium Denture, the lab will custom finish your denture in the permanent acrylic base material. This additional customization results in a more natural look.
Premium dentures can cost $2,000-$4,000 per plate, or $4,000-$8,000 or more for a set. Dentures in this price range are a personalized fit, use high-end materials to simulate the look of gums and teeth as closely as possible, last a long time and are warranted against chipping and cracking for 5-10 years or longer. Often the price includes several follow-up visits to fine-tune the fit.
The Premium Denture is very high in natural appearance. It features enhanced natural appeal, wear and stain resistance, with detailed customization. As with the UltimateFit and EconomyPlus Dentures, the Premium’s extra-high density teeth are first set in wax for you to try in. Changes may be made at that time. After you have approved the look of your Premium Denture, the lab will custom finish your denture in the permanent acrylic base material. This additional customization results in a more natural look.
