If you have several missing teeth, dentures are an affordable solution to give you back functionality and a beautiful smile. However, getting dentures is a major step, and like any dental procedure, you should consider the entire process before jumping into treatment. Check out these three things you should consider before getting your dentures from professionals at places like Village Green Denture Clinic.
Do You Want Immediate or Conventional Dentures?
The first decision to make is whether you want immediate dentures, conventional dentures or both. As the name suggests, immediate dentures can be placed immediately. Even if you have decayed or broken teeth that need to be pulled, the immediate dentures can be placed before the gum has healed. Immediate dentures are more expensive and cost between $1075 and $2150 for a full upper or lower set. If you had teeth pulled to fit the dentures, you may need to have your immediate dentures replaced soon. As your gum shrinks, the immediate dentures no longer fit properly.
Conventional dentures are quite similar to immediate dentures, but they cannot be placed until your jaw has healed after having teeth pulled. On the bright side, conventional dentures tend to fit better longer because you have to wait until after the healing period to place them. Plus, they cost less than immediate dentures. If you only choose conventional dentures, you will spend some time without teeth. However, you could choose to have immediate and conventional dentures. Wear the immediate dentures while your jaw heals, and then switch to the conventional set.
Can You Handle the Learning Curve and Changes?
Dentures are removable and sit on your gums. There are pastes and strips you can use to try and hold them in place, but they aren't perfect. Especially during the initial stages of having your dentures, they will move and shift when you eat and talk. In some cases, they may even fall out. During this learning curve, you will talk different, food may taste different, and eating will be hard as your learn to use the dentures properly.
Besides the initial learning curve, there are major permanent changes that come with having dentures. Firstly, while you can wear them at night, it's not recommended, so be prepared to spend your nights toothless. In an emergency, you may not have time to put your teeth in, which could be embarrassing. Secondly, there are just some foods you can't eat anymore, such as sticky candies. Lastly, even after the learning curve, the dentures will still move and slip sometimes.
Can You Afford Implant-Supported Dentures?
If you are getting dentures, have you considered implant-supported dentures? Implant-supported dentures use titanium roots to hold the dentures in place. The titanium sits in your jawbone, making it sturdy and durable. Implant-supported dentures are not removable, so you don't have to worry about them slipping, moving or falling out, and the learning curve is shorter and less drastic.
Of course, all these benefits come with a price. A full set of implant-supported dentures costs an average of $34,000. If your teeth have been missing for a long time, your jaw may no longer be strong enough to support the implants, so you may need a bone graft to add strength to the jaw. Luckily, with proper care, implant-supported dentures may last the rest of your life. Traditional dentures are not as durable and will need replacement at some point.
Dentures are a perfect way to replace your smile and regain your confidence. If you can afford them, and if your dentist feels you are a good candidate, implant-supported dentures are a great alternative to traditional dentures. For more information about traditional dentures or implant-supported dentures, contact a dentist in your area today.
Share