Missing teeth can negatively impact your quality of life by making it difficult to complete everyday tasks like speaking and chewing. Whether you’re missing multiple teeth or an entire arch, at Dentistry of Wisconsin we offer multiple restorative solutions so you can choose the one that will best suit your lifestyle. Instead of letting holes in your smile wear down your self-esteem and keep you from enjoying the things you love, visit us for a consultation. We’ll examine your mouth and discuss all of your tooth replacement options like full and partial dentures. Our team of experienced professionals is excited to help you get your smile back!
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dentures?
If your missing teeth impact your life on a daily basis, whether it’s mentally, physically, or both, then you may be a good candidate for dentures. They are ideal for patients who are missing several, most, or even all of their teeth. If you don’t initially make a good candidate, you might be able to become one by restoring the health of the gum tissue and bone structure. Continue reading to learn more.
The Effects of Missing Teeth
Teeth are very strong, but they aren’t completely indestructible. The most common causes behind missing teeth include tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there are numerous negative health effects that you can experience from tooth loss. They include facial sagging, difficulty speaking, trouble eating, and lower self-esteem. By replacing your missing teeth with dentures, you can improve all of these areas, positively influencing your quality of life.
What Qualifies You for Dentures?
Dentures are ideal for those who have experienced significant tooth loss. People who get dentures must also be committed to their dental health routine and willing to properly care for their dentures and smile. The number of teeth that you are missing will ultimately determine which type of denture is ideal for you. One of the great things about dentures is the fact that they are much more affordable than other tooth replacement options, like dental implants. This makes them an option for those who are unable to invest a lot of money into their smile at this time.
Alternative Tooth Replacement Options
If you aren’t a good candidate for dentures, or they don’t sound like your cup of tea, you may want to consider other tooth replacement options, like dental bridges or implants. Here is what each one consists of:
Dental Bridges: A dental bridge works by “bridging” the gap with a replacement tooth using dental crowns on the adjacent teeth. This is great for patients who are only missing one or a few teeth. This method requires healthy teeth surrounding the missing tooth to support it.
Dental Implants: A dental implant is a screw-like post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. This requires that the patient has a strong and sufficient bone structure. This option is more costly than traditional dentures, but it is permanent.
When you’re missing a few teeth, you can choose to replace them using partial dentures. This prosthesis helps fill in the gaps in your smile by using specially designed metal or acrylic clasps that grips to your natural teeth to hold your replacement ones in place. The non-metal base resembles your gums for a more discreet appearance.
The replacement teeth sit atop the base and are custom made to look as natural as possible. That way, you’ll be able to confidently smile without anybody being able to tell that you have a dental restoration. Typically, the teeth are made from either porcelain or acrylic to flawlessly incorporate with the rest of your mouth.
What are Full Dentures?
Full dentures are engineered differently than partials to replace either a single arch or all of your missing teeth. They are formed into a horseshoe-shape to keep them from excessively interfering with your tongue movement. The base of your restoration is made from a natural-looking gum-colored acrylic that is designed to be held in place by suction and denture adhesive.
The replacement teeth of full dentures are secured to the base and also made from natural-looking materials like acrylic and porcelain. Our dentists also custom-fit the restorations to your mouth so they don’t slip or shift while you eat and chew.
The Benefits of Dentures
At Dentistry of Wisconsin, we don’t want our patients to suffer from having to wear ill-fitting restorations, which is why we take our time to craft comfortable-fitting replacement teeth that can withstand everyday use. Our full and partial dentures offer countless benefits, including:
More Varied Diet
With missing teeth, it’s hard to chew certain foods. That’s why many patients end up sticking to a pretty bland and routine diet consisting of plain yogurt, oatmeal, and applesauce. The good news is that dentures can restore some of the strength of your bite that was lost. Not only will this allow you to enjoy a much more varied diet again, but it will also help prevent nutrient deficiencies and indigestion!
Clearer Communication
Whether you are missing one tooth or several, you may notice that you make a whistling or lisp sound when you speak. This can make you self-conscious and negatively impact your confidence over time. Fortunately, partial dentures can seamlessly fill the gaps in, allowing you to smile, laugh, and talk without having to worry about any awkward moments.
Cost-Effective
Dentures are one of the most cost-effective options for replacing missing teeth. Plus, they are usually covered by dental insurance, so there’s a good chance that you won’t have to pay for the entire thing out-of-pocket if you are insured. If you’re not familiar with your coverage, our team will be more than happy to review your benefits, answer any questions you have, and file the paperwork for you.
Long-Lasting
With proper care, your dentures can last for a decade. So, make sure that you commit to good habits, like soaking them in a dentist-recommended cleaner each night. It’s also important that you gently handle them when you’re cleaning them to prevent accidental damage and that you visit us regularly to ensure that they fit properly.
Replace Missing Teeth in Less Time
In short, other restorative procedures can take months to complete. Conversely, you can expect to have a sparkling and bright smile in a matter of weeks with dentures. So, what are you waiting for? Schedule a consultation with us! The sooner you do, the sooner we can begin the process of creating your custom denture and, in turn, restoring your healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.
Boosted Confidence
Did you know that your smile is one of the first features that new people notice? That’s why we take the time to create custom dentures that look incredibly natural and suit your face shape. After you first put your dentures in, you’ll realize how much you missed your complete smile!
If you’re looking to replace either a few or all of your missing teeth, don’t hesitate to contact our office in Waupun or Beaver Dam. Our staff of trained and experienced dental professionals can’t wait to help restore the function and look of your smile by providing you with quality dentures!
Understanding the Cost of Dentures
You might have heard dentures are expensive, but we strive to keep them affordable for everyone. Various factors affect the cost of dentures in Waupun because every mouth is unique, just like your fingerprints. After examining your mouth and learning more about your preferences, we’ll provide you with a personalized estimate and review your payment options, like using your dental insurance.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Dentures
A one-size-fits-all denture would be uncomfortable and look natural, which is why there’s not a cookie-cutter treatment plan. Your denture dentist in Waupun will consider several things when creating a strategy to rebuild your smile, which can include:
Preparatory Procedures: Some patients need a little prep work before getting dentures, like tooth extractions or gum disease therapy.
Number of Arches: If you need to treat both arches, your estimate will include fees for the upper and lower teeth.
Type of Denture: There are several types and styles of dentures available.
Materials: High-quality materials will last longer to make the most of your investment.
You’ll know exactly what you’ll have to pay before committing to anything, so you won’t be surprised by any fees.
Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?
Implant dentures cost more upfront, but they are the most affordable long-term. Instead of suction or an adhesive, dental implants anchor your denture to your jawbone. This method replaces both the roots and crowns to strengthen your jawbone. You’ll avoid many issues associated with missing teeth to save money down the road. Not to mention, you won’t have to pay for replacements every few years, like with traditional dentures. Dental implants are proven to last for 30 years or longer with the proper maintenance, like committing to your oral hygiene. You’ll enjoy a nearly identical replica of your real teeth for decades.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?
Every insurance policy and situation differ, but most dental plans can be used to offset the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket for your new smile. Dentures are considered a major treatment, which means about 50% of the cost will be paid by your insurance after reaching your deductible. You can also use your coverage to lower the fees for other steps in your treatment plan, like the consultation, imaging, or gum disease therapy. We know insurance is confusing, but you won’t have to navigate your policy alone. We’ll work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize your benefits.
Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable
Your financial situation should never prevent you from having a complete smile. Our office provides multiple payment options for dentures in Waupun, including:
Traditional Payments: We accept all forms of traditional payments, including cash, checks, and credit cards.
Third-Party Financing: Pay for your dentures using monthly installments through a third-party financing company, like CareCredit.
A member of your dental team will discuss all payment methods to find the options you need to fit your budget without having to compromise on quality or aesthetics. If you’re ready to invest in dentures, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.
Dentures Aftercare
Dentures can completely transform both the appearance and function of your smile. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence! However, even if you don’t have any existing teeth, this doesn’t mean that you should stop seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. There are a few reasons why they are important. They will continue to monitor any existing teeth and gum tissue, and they will keep an eye out for any abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. When you have dentures, it becomes very difficult to notice these changes in your mouth on your own. To make a full recovery, early detection is key!
Remove After Eating
After each meal, take out your dentures and rinse them off. This will help to prevent food debris and plaque from building up. When rinsing your dentures, make sure the water isn’t too hot. High temperatures can warp the denture material and make it not fit properly.
Clean Your Restoration
Take out your dentures to clean them. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and some unscented hand soap, mild dish soap, or denture cleanser, gently brush your dentures. You shouldn’t use regular toothpaste because it is too abrasive for your replacement teeth. If you aren’t putting your dentures back in right away, keep them in a container of water or denture cleansing solution so they don’t dry out. Before putting them back in your mouth, rinse your dentures thoroughly.
Keep Your Dentures Safe
When you clean your dentures, you may want to place a towel beneath you. This way, if you accidentally drop your dentures, they will be less likely to become damaged. When you aren’t using them, keep your dentures in a place where small children and pets cannot reach them.
Remove When You Sleep
When you sleep, take your dentures out. Sleeping while wearing dentures restricts the circulation to your gum tissue. This can lead to soft-tissue irritation. Sleeping with dentures has also been associated with higher risks of pneumonia. Remember to keep your dentures in a denture-soaking solution overnight. If they dry out, they can permanently lose their shape.
Notice Changes
Always be on the lookout for changes so you can address them with your dentist. This includes mouth sores, gum irritation, and signs of infection. If your dentures become damaged in any way, give us a call. Don’t try to replace them on your own because you could accidentally damage them further. For dentures that are shifting, clicking, or showing other signs of not fitting properly, let us know. Your dentures may need to be relined or replaced.
Denture FAQs
Dentures in Waupun and Beaver Dam have been used for generations to treat significant tooth loss. Although they are tried and proven, they are a big investment. It is normal to have a few apprehensions but don’t let that stop you from rebuilding your smile. Your dentist will explain everything during your denture consultation . While you wait, here are the answers to frequently asked questions.
Can I sleep with my dentures in my mouth?
No one wants to get caught without their teeth, but you should only sleep with your dentures the first night. After the first 24 hours, get in the habit of taking them out before going to bed. This is necessary for multiple reasons, like keeping your gums healthy. Your dentures will restrict blood circulation to your gums. The gums need time to recuperate to get ready for the next day. Removing them nightly allows the soft tissues to get the nutrients they need to avoid sores, irritation, and infections. Your mouth is also dark and moist, which is the ideal environment for harmful oral bacteria. Taking your dentures out allows you to clean them and your mouth to avoid infections and odors. It will also increase the lifespan of your dentures. Don’t forget to soak them in an overnight denture solution when they aren’t in your mouth.
Will dentures change the shape of my face?
Yes! Missing teeth can cause an aged appearance because your facial muscles will sag without their support. Your denture dentist in Waupun and Beaver Dam can turn back the clock to restore a youthful appearance. Your new smile will support your facial tissues to improve a sunken appearance; however, if your dentures don’t fit well, sagging can reoccur. It’s best to have your denture relined or replaced when it doesn’t feel as snug as before.
Do upper dentures always cover the palate?
There are various styles of dentures, so they don’t always have to cover the upper palate. If you are concerned about an upper denture changing the way your food tastes, you have options. As an alternative, you can choose a top denture with a horseshoe shape. After examining your mouth and learning more about your preferences, your dentist will explain all your options to make the best choice for your smile.
Do I brush my dentures with toothpaste?
Your dentures will mimic your real teeth, but they can’t be cleaned using the same products. Hard bristled toothbrushes and toothpaste can scratch your dentures. Not only can this affect their appearance and lifespan, but food particles and plaque can get trapped in the microscopic crevasses, which can lead to unpleasant odors. Instead, it’s better to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild dishwashing liquid or hand soap to clean them daily. You can also purchase cleaning products designed for dentures. Don’t use hot water when cleaning them because they can warp. Besides daily brushing, rinse your dentures after every meal, and use a nightly soaking solution.
