Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures, as the name implies, are placed as soon as the natural teeth are removed. With immediate dentures, the patient need not face the world without teeth, can eat normally much sooner than with conventional dentures, and does not have the speech problems associated with the normal denture process. However, since healing of the gums and jaw will change the fit of immediate dentures, the patient will typically need a new set in about six months.
Patients that want a more stable and comfortable denture alternative may be interested in talking to their dentists about dental implants and dental bridges. Although both of these treatments tend to be more expensive than dentures, they generally offer a more precise fit and better chewing ability than dentures. Patients can also have a tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain bridge or implant restoration placed for a more natural looking appearance.
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
Teeth can fall out for a number of reasons, ranging from genetics to drug abuse. Most commonly, teeth are removed or fall out on their own due to severe tooth decay. Neglect to upkeep oral hygiene or not seeking proper treatment for damaged teeth, can lead to the onset of decay which in turn leads to loss of teeth. Visiting you dentist in 6 month intervals is a good preventive measure to spot any early signs of decay.
