Dentures (also known as false teeth) are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth; they are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity. Conventional dentures are removable (removable partial denture or complete denture). However, there are many denture designs, some which rely on bonding or clasping onto teeth or dental implants (fixed prosthodontics). There are two main categories of dentures, the distinction being whether they are used to replace missing teeth on the mandibular arch or on the maxillary arch.
Whether you are considering getting dentures, already have them, or know someone with them, it’s very likely that you may have some questions about them. What follows is information on what dentures really are, what kind of care they require, and how dentures can improve your oral health. We hope to help you find the answers to all your denture queries and to find out, if necessary, whether dentures might be right for you.
Having a complete set of bright and well-aligned teeth can give you a beautiful smile. When a person loses his or her teeth to disease, injury, accidents or age, the gaps in the smile are usually enough reasons to warrant a dental solution. Of course, the reasons for treating missing teeth goes beyond aesthetic reasons and extends into the realms of health, such as personal well-being and simply feeling good about oneself.
I bought a full upper denture and within months, they were way too loose. I was told by my dentist they would need relining after several months. My dentist now wants $475 to reline and fit these very thin dentures, but she never mentioned I would be charged to have these refitted. After paying $2,500 total (and unexpectedly), I was just wondering Is this the norm? Or was I just unlucky?Answer: Whenever teeth are extracted, the jawbone and gums in the areas where the teeth used to be start to shrink. This shrinkage can continue for the rest of your life, and this is part of the reason that most dentures need to be refit periodically. Because the most rapid jaw shrinkage occurs during the first six months after extractions, it would be quite normal for your dentures to be loose after six months and require relining. Because the need for this additional and continual treatment (refitting) can vary greatly from patient to patient and time to time, it is most often considered as a separate part of your treatment plan, and the time necessary to accomplish this service is billed accordingly.Response provided by the American College of Prosthodontists. Back to top
Getting dentures can be an intimidating process. The American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) answers the most popular questions regarding denture costs. Read more about denture adhesives here.How much do dentures cost?Answer: That is a really good question that has a range of answers. The cost of dentures is dependent upon the conditions within your mouth, the types of materials being used, the techniques used by the dentist or prosthodontist, as well as the location and general operating costs of the dental office. Denture care is an ongoing service to maintain a healthy mouth. What many patients don't realize is that there is a service aspect connected to complete denture care, which includes modification of dentures over time to eliminate "sore spots" or to improve how the teeth fit for chewing, and correcting the look of or adjusting the dentures to make them more comfortable and stable. The conditions of your mouth make your treatment easier or harder and therefore may result in different costs. If cost is your primary concern, you might want to locate a dental school in your community for treatment. Keep in mind, low-cost treatment is of limited value if you have to have the treatment done over again in a short time. To locate a prosthodontist near you,visit www.gotoapro.org. Read more about denture adhesive creams here. Response provided by the American College of Prosthodontists. Back to top
