Dentures

When you lose a large number of teeth, up to an entire upper or lower arch, it can feel devastating to your self-esteem and your health. Fortunately, dentures offer an affordable way to restore your smile with a natural appearance.

The first thing that comes to mind when many patients think about dentures are the uncomfortable, unattractive appliances that their grandparents wore. Modern dentures have advanced significantly, and they are created specifically for each patient for maximum comfort.

If you need to restore your smile after tooth loss, call our office to schedule a denture consultation. We can discuss your treatment options with you and give you an idea of what to expect from the treatment process.

Custom-Designed Dentures Offer Comfort And Beauty

In past decades, patients who needed dentures had to settle for cookie-cutter appliances that often were ill-fitting and noticeably artificial. Today’s dentures represent a vast improvement over those older appliances.

Made of state-of-the-art materials that approximate the appearance of natural enamel, modern dentures are designed to fit the exact specifications of each patient’s unique oral structures. The result is a prosthetic that looks and feels like your biological smile.

Still skeptical that your dentures will have a natural appearance and fit? We’d be happy to show you photos of past results with previous patients that demonstrate the beauty that can be achieved through dentures.

Types Of Dentures

Patients have different options for dentures, depending on the extent of tooth loss. One of the following appliances may be recommended in your case.

Partial dentures

To replace a large stretch of missing teeth when some natural teeth remain in the smile; Partial dentures attach to those natural teeth and are held in place using clasps.

Full dentures

To replace an entire arch of missing teeth; Patients may use denture adhesive for a more secure fit with their dentures.

Permanent dentures

Dentures that are secured to the underlying jawbone using dental implants rather than conventional design.

At your consultation, Dr. Steel will thoroughly assess your case and recommend the type of appliance that will best meet your needs.

What To Expect From The Denture Treatment Process

The process of getting dentures begins at your initial consultation with Dr. Steel, in which she will evaluate your case and gather all pertinent information needed to design your dentures. The consultation may incorporate:

  • Visual examination of your smile
  • X-rays
  • Dental impressions

You will also have the chance to discuss any concerns or ask any questions you have about getting dentures with Dr. Steel at this time.

Dr. Steel is maticulous detailed in designing dentures for patients, so trust that she will be thorough in getting all of the information she needs for this process. That information is then forwarded to the dental lab that is tasked with actually crafting your dentures.

When your dentures are ready, you will return to the office to have them fitted. Keep in mind that Dr. Steel can make further adjustments as needed at this time, so if something doesn’t feel right to you don’t hesitate to speak up.

As you get adjusted to your dentures, you can expect to feel some mild discomfort for the first several days. This symptom usually can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers if necessary. If the pain is severe or persistent, contact Dr. Steel to see if your dentures need to be adjusted.

Common Dentures Questions

How much do dentures cost?

The cost of dentures varies from patient to patient, depending on the complexity of the case, the type of appliance being fitted and any auxiliary services that are needed. Our practice accepts a number of payment options and can connect you with financing services to allow you to fit any out-of-pocket expenses into your budget.

What is a partial denture?

A partial denture consists of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-colored plastic base, which is sometimes connected by a metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. A partial denture is used to replace a number of missing teeth when there are still some biological teeth remaining in the smile. Partial dentures need to use those natural teeth as anchors to secure the appliance. They are attached to the supporting natural teeth using clasps. Partial dentures can be removed for cleaning, sleep and other activities as needed.

What are permanent dentures?

Permanent dentures are secured to the teeth using dental implants, which function as artificial tooth roots. The dentures remain firmly in place all the time. In addition to securing the denture, the dental implants also preserve the integrity of the jawbone, so it will retain its shape over time. This means that the permanent denture will not lose its fit, as conventional dentures often do when the jaw’s contour changes due to bone atrophy.

Are dentures covered on insurance?

Insurance benefits differ between carriers, and some insurance plans may offer some coverage for dentures. Our experienced billing staff has expertise in working with various insurance companies, and we will work diligently to maximize any insurance benefits that you may have.