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Dentures

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Dentures: Benefits, Types, And Costs

Are you concerned that you might need to wear dentures? Do you currently wear dentures?

You might be thinking:

  • “Will people be able to tell that I am wearing dentures?”
  • “Will they look natural?”
  • “Will I be able to eat and speak?” Understandably, these thoughts can be very frightening.

With advances in materials, technology, and methods of care, it's easier than ever to replace painful, broken, or infected teeth.

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The results can be amazing!

Benefits of Dentures

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Here are some of the benefits:

  1. Eliminate pain and suffering from:
    • Cavities
    • Infections
    • Abscesses
    • Gum disease
    • Tooth Loss
  2. Improved appearance:

When you have missing teeth, you develop facial collapse and deep creases in your face.

Dentures can help maintain the shape of your face.

  1. Better chewing ability.
  2. Prevent shifting: You can develop gaps and spaces in your smile, and your bite can shift if missing teeth are not replaced.
  3. Improved speech depending upon your situation.
  4. Convenience: Easy to clean and maintain.
  5. Cost-effective: Full dentures are less expensive than implants.

Dental Health and Dentures

Your oral health is super important to your overall health and well-being!

The biggest benefits are the elimination of pain and infection!

When you have an infection in your mouth, it can spread through your entire body.

While extremely rare, cases have been reported where people have died from dental infections.

"Years ago, I had a patient who was sitting in my chair, and I asked him why he was there. He said he had to get his mouth taken care of. I asked why.

He said he was seeing a brain surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic, and his surgeon would not operate until the infection in his mouth was eliminated."

(Dr. Bradley Hylan)

What are dentures?

Dentures are removable appliances that are designed to replace missing teeth.

  • They precisely and comfortably rest on top of your gums.
  • They are usually made of acrylic resin.
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Dr. Hylan with Ahmad.

Dentist in Cleveland

Ahmad has years of experience.

He is super picky and a little OCD. He likes things perfect, and he makes great teeth!

Years ago, porcelain teeth were frequently used.

Porcelain teeth looked beautiful. However, because porcelain is brittle, it causes bone damage. Today, porcelain is rarely used.

Modern acrylic resin teeth look beautiful.

Below is a close-up of what a full upper denture looks like.

It covers your palate or the roof of your mouth. It stays in place with suction.

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Full lowers, rest on your gums.

They have NO SUCTION, and you have to learn to hold them in.

People use adhesives or have dental implants placed to help hold their teeth in.

Dentist in Brecksville

Partials and dentures should always be removed when you sleep unless you have permanent teeth (Implant Bridges) that stay in all the time.

Denture Exam

The following are evaluated when doing an exam:

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  • Your facial muscles
  • Facial collapse
  • Lip support or lack thereof.
  • How far you can open your mouth
  • Your jaw joint (TMJ)
  • The soft tissues inside your mouth, including gum tissue
  • Muscle attachments (frenums) that affect suction and fit.
  • Overall facial appearance.
  • Stomatitis (A yeast infection)
  • Tooth decay

X-rays

It is very important to take X-rays before fabricating dentures or placing implants.

We are normally born with 20 baby teeth(primary teeth) and, as adults, have 32 permanent teeth.

We occasionally find broken roots of teeth, unerupted teeth, and wisdom teeth under the gums. If they are not removed, you can wind up having a lot of pain.

Something not well-known is called a “cavitation.”

A cavitation appears on an X-ray as a white outline of where there was a former root of a tooth.

A “cavitation” is when the periodontal ligament surrounding the root of the tooth does not break down after an extraction.

Occasionally cavitations cause phantom pain and need to be removed.

Bone Support

We always evaluate bone support.

Adequate Bone support is critical to a successful outcome.

The picture below shows plastic models of lower jaws.

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When bone is worn out, a denture would be flopping around in your mouth. It would be almost impossible to chew.

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Twenty-five years ago, there was not much we could do to help you if you lacked adequate bone.

Today's technology and denture materials make it possible for almost everyone to get an outstanding result!

Types of Dentures

Partial Dentures

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If you are missing a few teeth and your remaining teeth are strong and healthy, a removable partial denture is usually your best choice.

Advantages of partials:

  1. Stabilizes your bite
  2. Prevents the drifting of your remaining natural teeth.
  3. Improves ability to chew. This is based on the number of missing teeth.
  4. Better biting sensation because of the periodontal ligament around natural teeth Partials stay in your mouth with clasps that attach to your remaining teeth.

Today many partials have flexible clasps that are either tooth-colored or gum-colored. This is a cosmetic dentistry option.

Possible disadvantages of partials:

  1. Clasps can cause wear or gumline cavities on the remaining natural teeth
  2. Clasps can loosen teeth

Coming in for regular checkups at least every six months is important.

Full Dentures

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Noah

Emma

There are many types of teeth.

Full dentures are also known as complete dentures, conventional dentures, or traditional dentures.

They are fabricated and placed after all your natural teeth have been removed. It is possible to get just an upper or lower.

Your teeth' ultimate design and fabrication are based on underlying bone support and specific needs.

Having an extra set of teeth (A spare denture) is always recommended. It is simple and relatively inexpensive when you are in the process of getting teeth.

Everything is done in our lab. There are no extra appointments or time involved.

Immediate Dentures

Immediates are sometimes referred to as "Teeth In A Day."

With an immediate denture, you never go without teeth.

You have your teeth extracted, and your new ones are immediately placed after your extractions.

You must keep your new teeth in for 24 hours to prevent swelling.

You return to your dentist the next day, and the dentist will remove your new denture and check the extraction sites.

Reline

After removing your natural teeth, your gums will shrink as your mouth heals. As a result of shrinkage, gaps will form under your denture. This is normal. A reline is done to fill in the gaps.

Adjustments will be required to help maintain your comfort as your gums are healing. An immediate denture is not designed for long-term use.

A final denture is normally fabricated after your gums and extraction sites have healed. This is done for optimal comfort and fit.

Overdenture

An overdenture is any type of denture that receives added stability and support from underlying teeth or dental implants.

Overdentures fit over the roots of teeth or over implants.

Implant-Supported Dentures (Snap-In Dentures)

These are attached to implants in your upper or lower jaw.

These add a significant measure of stability, retention, and chewing power. The following terms are used interchangeably:

  • Implant-retained dentures
  • Implant-supported dentures
  • Overdentures

Dental implants

Permanent Dentures (Implant Bridges)

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Implant bridges can replace three or more teeth.

Different types of implants are used for different situations. Check out the following video to learn more about implants.

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Shelly

Carla

Maya

Christina

Linda

Implant surgery has greatly advanced over the years.

Because of advances in handling connective tissue, aesthetic results are outstanding.

Features of Permanent Dentures (Implant Bridges):

  • Your replacement teeth are fitted over implants and stay in all the time!
  • Only removable by your dentist.
  • Prevent bone loss
  • Helps your jaw retain its strength
  • Greatest biting force. Can restore 100% of your function and chewing ability.
  • Can eliminate wearing a denture
  • It can be like having your natural teeth growing out of your gums.
  • They can’t decay
  • Upper jaw (palate) is not covered. Therefore, you can taste food better and can better experience sensations of hot and cold.
  • Important to have teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis, often every three (3) or four (4) months

Dental Implants are more expensive than dentures but can last a lifetime. The exact number of needed implants depends on your specific situation.

Implant-supported dental bridges are life-changing!

What happens during a denture fitting?

A denture fitting typically involves several appointments. Here's what you can expect:

  1. Impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your mouth using a mold or a digital scanner.
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  1. Custom Impression Tray: Sometimes, your dentist will need to make a custom impression tray to get a better fit. If a custom impression tray is recommended, a preliminary impression is made first, followed by an impression with a custom impression tray.
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  1. Bite registration: You will be asked to bite down on a special material to record the relationship between your upper and lower jaws.
  2. Wax try-in: A wax model of your finished teeth will be created to allow you to try them on before they are finalized. This will help ensure they look natural.
Hylan Dental Care | The Complete Guide to Dentures and Implants, Routine Services and Smile Design

Sherry

Communicating with your dentist about your appearance is very important.

The wax teeth will fit loosely.

They will not fit like your finished teeth!

  1. Final fitting: You receive your finished teeth. Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your mouth is comfortable and your teeth fit securely.
  2. Aftercare instructions: Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your teeth, including how to clean them and how often they should be replaced.

After you receive your teeth, you may have some minor irritations. You can come back to the office and have things adjusted.

How long does it take to get used to dentures?

It’s different for everyone.

Different types of dentures have different adjustment periods.

Initially, it is common to experience some discomfort or soreness in your mouth. It may take several weeks to several months to fully adjust to your new teeth.

During the first few days, you may need to wear your dentures for only a few hours at a time. Take them out and allow your mouth to rest.

Stick to soft foods cut into small pieces. Try to chew or grind food on your back teeth. Avoid hard or sticky foods until you feel more comfortable chewing.

Practice speaking.

Practice eating different foods.

Cleaning Dentures

How should I care for my mouth and teeth?

  1. Gently brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth with a soft-bristled brush before inserting your teeth in the morning and after removing them at night.
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  1. Clean your artificial teeth daily with a denture brush and a mild soap or denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste or household cleaners, as these can be too abrasive and cause damage.
  2. According to the American Dental Association, it is important to soak your artificial teeth in water or a denture cleaning solution overnight to remove bacteria and food particles.
  3. Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to help prevent infection and maintain fresh breath.
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Olivia

  1. Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and to have your teeth evaluated for proper fit and function. Ask your dentist how often you should come in for a check-up.
  2. Ideally, remove your teeth and rinse your mouth with water after eating. If this is not possible, swish water in your mouth after eating.

Should I Use a Denture Adhesive?

A denture adhesive is a product that is used to help hold teeth in place. They should only be used if you are having difficulty keeping your teeth in place.

If you are considering using a denture adhesive, it is important to speak with your dentist.

Are Denture Adhesives Safe?

Yes. They are generally considered safe when used as directed.

The main ingredients in many adhesives are zinc, carboxymethylcellulose, and petrolatum. Avoid using an adhesive on damaged or irritated gums.

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the ingredients in denture adhesives.

If you experience symptoms such as itching, swelling, or redness, discontinue use and consult your dentist.

How long do dentures last?

On average, dentures can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper care and maintenance. There are several factors that can affect the lifespan of dentures:

  • The type of denture
  • The materials used (This is a huge factor!)
  • How well they are cared for.

Over time, denture teeth become worn and this can affect their fit and function.

What are the drawbacks of dentures?

  1. Discomfort or minor irritation: Getting used to new teeth usually takes time. Your dentist can advise you on how to handle this.
  2. Difficulty eating: Initially, it can be difficult to chew foods. You need to chew slowly.
  3. Speech difficulties: It can take time to get used to speaking. You may experience some difficulty pronouncing certain words or sounds.
  4. Reduced taste sensation: If the roof of the mouth is covered, it can reduce your sense of taste.
  5. Excess saliva: This is normal and usually goes away with time.
  6. Bone loss: Your gums will shrink. Wearing dentures for an extended period can cause bone loss. A denture does not provide the same level of stimulation to the jawbone as natural teeth or a dental implant.
  7. Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent bacterial growth and to ensure proper function.
  8. Replacement: They need to be replaced or adjusted periodically, as the shape of your mouth and gums change over time.

How Much Do Dentures Cost?

Because so many factors are involved in pricing dentures and implants, we do FREE CONSULTATIONS.

Some of the factors that influence the cost of artificial teeth:

  1. Condition of your gums and jawbone.
  2. Will you need bone built up (bone grafts)?
  3. Do you have bone chips that need to be smoothed down?
  4. Materials chosen.
  5. Your aesthetic needs

Low-cost dentures

Start at $400 - $600 for an upper or lower.

These are typically cold-cured teeth. They are often considered to be temporary dentures because of their low quality.

They look artificial and fake.

You normally can not try them in before they are finished. They wear out quickly, sometimes within a year.

Because the teeth wear quickly, it affects your bite and ability to chew. You have to pay for adjustments.

Years ago, we tried using cheap products. Patients were extremely unhappy, and the results were disastrous! We do not want to hurt patients. Therefore, we do not do these because of all the problems associated with them!

Mid-priced deluxe dentures

Start at $1,250 - $2,000 ($189/month) per upper or lower. You will have a great smile with these teeth.

These are heat cured.

You can try them in before they are finished.

The teeth are strong and typically last 5 to 7 years. Adjustments are included.

They are guaranteed for two years.

Premium dentures

Start at $2,500 - $5,000 ($229/month) per denture.

When describing Premium Dentures, patients use the terms:

Drop Dead Gorgeous and Facelift Dentures.

Premium Dentures use the best materials. They are completely customized. Custom impression trays are used. Adjustments are included. Guaranteed for two years. Typically last 7 to 10 years.

Dental implants start at $1,650 or $189/month.

Patient financing and payment plans are available.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dentures?

In many cases, dental insurance covers a portion of the cost of dentures. The amount covered can vary depending on your specific plan.

Most dental insurance plans have a yearly maximum amount that they will pay for dental services.

Additionally, most insurance plans require patients to meet a deductible or pay a percentage of the cost of the denture as a copayment.

American Dental Association

FYI: More than 36 million Americans are edentulous (i.e., do not have any teeth), and 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth.

FAQ

Check out The Definitive Question and Answer Guide to Dentures If you still have questions, feel free to call our office.

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