What Are Complete Dentures?
Complete dentures are a type of removable prosthesis used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw or both. They’re custom-made to fit each individual’s mouth and are typically made of acrylic resin. Complete removable dentures rest directly on the gums and are held in place by suction or denture adhesive.
They provide a functional and aesthetic solution for individuals who have lost all their teeth due to decay, gum disease, injury, or other reasons. Complete dentures use artificial teeth to restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Components of Complete Dentures
- Base: The acrylic base is designed to mimic the appearance of natural gums.
- Teeth: The prosthetic teeth are typically made from acrylic or porcelain and are designed to resemble natural teeth.
- Flange: This is the part of the denture that extends into the cheeks and lips, aiding in retention.
Complete Denture Types
There are a few different types of complete dentures available, including:
- Conventional Dentures: These are made and placed in the patient’s mouth after the remaining teeth are removed and the gum tissue has fully healed. Healing may take several months, during which time the patient is without teeth.
- Immediate Dentures: These are inserted immediately after the remaining teeth are removed. Measurements are taken and models are made of the patient’s jaws during a preliminary visit. While this means the patient doesn’t have to be without teeth during the healing period, the dentures may require adjustments or relining as the tissues heal and change shape.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Dental implants can be used to anchor complete dentures. This type of denture has attachments that snap onto or connect with implants placed in the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures provide enhanced stability and function compared to conventional dentures.
Benefits of Complete Dentures
Complete dentures offer several benefits for individuals who have lost all of their natural teeth, including:
- Improved Aesthetics: Dentures restore a natural appearance to the face as they replace missing teeth, supporting the lips and cheeks, and preventing the sunken-in look often associated with tooth loss.
- Enhanced Chewing and Speaking: Dentures enable individuals to chew food more effectively, which aids digestion and nutrition. They also help in clearer speech, preventing slurring or mumbling caused by missing teeth.
- Restored Oral Function: Complete dentures allow people to regain the ability to eat a wider variety of foods, including those that require more chewing, leading to a more balanced diet.
- Easy to Maintain: Removable dentures are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular cleaning and proper hygiene practices can help ensure their longevity and prevent issues like bad breath or oral infections.
- Cost-Effective: Complete dentures are generally more affordable than other tooth replacement options like dental implants, making them a viable choice for individuals on a budget.
- Customization: Dentures can be customized to fit the individual’s mouth comfortably. Modern denture materials and techniques allow for a better fit and improved comfort.
- Minimal Healing Time: Unlike dental implants that require healing time after surgery, dentures can be worn almost immediately after they are fitted and adjustments are made.
Getting Your Complete Dentures
You can expect to go through the following steps when getting complete dentures:
- Initial Examination: Our Prairie Village dentist will evaluate your oral health, take a medical history, and discuss your expectations.
- Impressions: Accurate molds of the mouth are taken to design the dentures.
- Try-In: Before the final product, a preliminary denture model is tested for fit, bite, and appearance.
- Adjustments: Necessary adjustments are made to ensure a perfect fit.
- Final Fitting: You’ll receive your permanent dentures, and aftercare instructions are provided.
Candidacy for Complete Dentures
To qualify for complete dentures, several factors must be considered, including:
- Complete tooth loss
- Good oral health
- Strong jawbone
- Realistic expectations
- Commitment to oral hygiene
To learn more about your denture candidacy, contact our dentist in Prairie Village today.
Complete Denture Costs
Complete dentures cost between $1,000 to $4,000. The full denture costs will vary as certain factors will influence expenses for each patient. Your new dentures cost will depend on the following:
- Location: Costs can differ significantly per location. For example, dentures typically cost more in urban areas compared to rural areas due to higher overheads and living costs.
- Material: Dentures can be made of various materials. Premium materials tend to look more natural and last longer, but they’re also more expensive.
- Type of Denture: There are conventional full dentures and immediate full dentures. Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has started to heal, whereas immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. Immediate dentures might cost more due to their expedited process.
- Dentist’s Experience and Reputation: Highly reputable and experienced dentists or prosthodontists often charge more than those just starting their practice.
- Additional Procedures: Sometimes, additional dental procedures, such as extractions, might be necessary before fitting dentures. These procedures would add to the overall cost.
Transform Your Smile with Dentures Today!
Schedule an appointment by giving our Prairie Village dentist a call at (913) 362-4488. By understanding the candidacy requirements and what to expect during the process, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the benefits of complete dentures for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Full dentures can last between 5 to 10 years with proper care and maintenance. The lifespan of complete dentures varies depending on several factors such as oral hygiene, wear and tear, and the materials used to make them. Keep in mind that as we age, our mouth changes, and the dentures may not fit as well as they did when they were first made.
It can take several weeks or even months to get used to wearing complete dentures. During this time, you may experience some discomfort, soreness, and difficulty speaking or eating. However, with time and practice, most people can adjust to wearing dentures and enjoy their benefits.
