A single missing tooth can wreak
havoc with your smile’s ability to function properly, and the problem only grows worse with every tooth lost.
You need a complete smile to live your best life, so if there’s a lot of empty space in your mouth, we
recommend calling Julington Creek Family
Dentistry to ask about dentures. Dr. Cohen can use these time-tested dental prosthetics to replace entire arches of
missing teeth.
Why Choose Julington Creek Family Dentistry for Dentures?
Highly Durable Natural-Looking Materials
In-House Dental Implant Placement Available
Comfortable and Friendly Dental Practice
Who's a Good Candidate for Dentures?
You can probably guess that dentures are often recommended for people who have lost an entire row of teeth.
However, they can also be a good choice for anyone who has multiple gaps in one arch. There are different kinds
of dentures to choose from, and we can help you narrow down which kind you might qualify for if you visit our
office for a consultation. Certain oral health issues might interfere with your ability to get dentures, but
such problems can often be treated.
Effects of Missing Teeth
As your body’s first step in digestion, your mouth needs your teeth to start breaking down food.
Without a full set, your teeth may not be able to grind food into smaller bits, which can make digestion
more difficult or even painful. In fact, many people who have missing teeth tend to eat softer, more
processed foods because they are easier to chew. As a result, these people can struggle with getting proper
nutrition.
In addition, losing teeth can have an immense, negative effect on your self-esteem and your ability to speak.
Because of this, you may find yourself hiding your smile more often or refraining from talking as much as
possible.
Another often forgotten consequence of tooth loss is that the jawbone withers away over time without tooth
roots, due to a lack of stimulation and blood flow. When this happens, facial structure changes and appears
more sunken and aged.
What Qualifies You for Dentures?
The good news is that pretty much anyone who is missing two or more teeth can benefit from dentures. As long
as your mouth does not have any infections or other problems, you qualify! If, however, you have periodontal
disease or another issue, Dr.
Cohen will resolve it first. Then, once you are healthy again, we can then work on getting you
replacement teeth.
Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options
Depending on your situation, you may wish to consider alternatives to dentures, which are the following:
Dental bridges: This option works for one to three missing teeth in a row that have one natural tooth on
both sides of the gap.
Dental implants: As the ultimate replacement choice, implants can be used for any number or combination
of missing teeth. They substitute the entire tooth structure, including the root, which makes the
prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture much more stable, strong, and long lasting.
Types of Dentures
A dentist who uses the term “dentures” might be talking about partial dentures, full dentures, or
implant dentures. Each option is designed to provide a lifelike, comfortable new smile. Which kind of denture
best suits your specific dental needs? This question can be answered when you first visit our office for a
consultation.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used when there are gaps in your grin but you still have a good number of teeth that can be
kept. The base of your partial dentures will resemble your gum tissue, and the prosthetic teeth will be made to
match the natural parts of your smile. Partial dentures use clasps to keep themselves anchored in place.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are typically the most viable option when all of the teeth in an arch have been lost or compromised
beyond repair. Full dentures are made out of the same natural-looking materials as partial dentures, but they
don’t come with a clasp; they stay on the gums with the help of natural suction.
Implant Dentures
If you have a sufficient amount of bone in your jaw, you may be able to have dental implants placed. Full
dentures can be attached to four to eight implant posts that have been surgically placed in carefully chosen
spots. The support from the implants helps strengthen your new teeth and will prevent them from moving at
awkward times.
The Benefits of Dentures
Losing just one tooth, let alone multiple, can have a less-than-desirable impact on your quality of life.
Fortunately, getting dentures can very quickly change things for the better. They have been around for a very long
time, and dentists continue to recommend them thanks to all the benefits that they can provide. Below are just some
of the advantages that you can look forward to when you commit to getting personalized dentures from our team at
Julington Creek Family Dentistry.
Psychological Benefits
The physical benefits of dentures are often easy to see, but they can also help improve your overall state of
mind.
Coming to terms with tooth loss can be easier said than done; many people with missing teeth tend to feel sad or
depressed, and they’re often anxious in social situations. But once you get dentures, you’re likely
to
regain your confidence thanks to once again having a beautiful smile that’s fit to show off to the world.
As
such, dentures can go a long way toward improving your social life as well as your self-esteem.
Clearer Enunciation
You may not normally think about the role your teeth play in everyday speaking. However, once you start living
with
an incomplete grin, you’ll quickly find out just how difficult it is to pronounce a number of words
properly
when key teeth are gone. Fortunately, once you get dentures (and practice a bit with them), you will once again
be
able to enunciate your words clearly, allowing you to chat comfortably with friends or speak in front of your
coworkers without having to worry about being understood.
Improves Nutrition
It can be tricky to maintain a healthy diet when you don’t have all of your teeth. There are many
nutritious
foods that you may not be able to chew properly anymore, which can lead to digestive problems. It’s not
uncommon for individuals with missing teeth to suffer from malnutrition due to diet limitations. With dentures,
you’ll have an easier time enjoying a variety of foods and ensuring that you’re getting all the
nutrients that your body needs.
Preserves Oral Health
As you can probably imagine, missing teeth are far from ideal in terms of oral health. One common issue is that
any
teeth remaining in your jaw may start to drift due to the now-empty space in your grin. Dentures can be used to
help
keep the teeth you still have in their proper places, allowing you to avoid the issues associated with dental
drift.
Additionally, your remaining teeth won’t wear down as quickly when dentures are there to share the burdens
of
biting and chewing.
Expands Opportunities
In both your career and your social life, a great smile can help you leave a strong first impression when it
counts
the most. With dentures, you’ll once again have a full set of teeth to help your smile look its best,
which
could end up making all the difference when opportunity knocks.
Understanding the Cost of Dentures
Your financial situation should never prevent you from replacing your lost teeth. Many factors affect the cost of dentures, but Dr. Jonathan H. Cohen strives to keep a complete smile within everyone’s budget. You won’t have to compromise quality or aesthetics. You’ll benefit from a durable, comfortable prosthetic that looks natural.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Dentures
There’s no one-size-fits-all denture because every mouth is as unique as fingerprints. Therefore, there’s not a flat fee for a new set of teeth. Various things will affect your estimate, including:
Preparatory Procedures: Besides your consultation, it’s not uncommon to require a little prep work, like gum disease treatment or tooth extractions.
Number of Arches: Treating both the upper and lower arches will increase the cost, but you can’t live with teeth on just the top or bottom.
Type of Denture: You can choose from many styles of dentures.
Materials: You might pay less for discounted materials initially, but it can cost you in terms of comfort and aesthetics. Dr. Cohen will help you choose high-quality materials to get the most from your investment.
Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?
Initially, dental implants might cost a little more, but they are the most affordable overall. Traditional dentures need to be replaced every 5-7 years. Implant dentures can last for 30 years or more, so you’ll never have to budget for replacements. Unlike traditional prosthetics, a dental implant replaces the entire tooth structure, including the root. You’ll benefit from unmatched support and stability. The implant posts also keep your jawbone strong and healthy to maintain a youthful appearance and better oral health. You’ll save money down the road by investing in dental implants.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?
Your dental insurance can cover some of the expenses for your consultation and diagnostic services. Your benefits may include any preliminary procedures after you meet your annual deductible. Dentures are considered a major service, so they are generally covered by 50% after you reach your deductible. We will help you maximize your coverage to keep dentures within your budget.
Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable
Besides using your dental insurance, our office offers various financial solutions:
Traditional Payments: We accept cash, personal checks, and credit cards for your convenience.
Financing: You can pay any out-of-pocket expenses using a monthly payment plan with CareCredit. You can enjoy little or no interest in financing based on your credit approval.
Dentures Aftercare
After you receive dentures, you will need to make diligent efforts to care well for both them and your oral tissues. For example, you should continue attending regular dental checkups. At these appointments, our team can professionally clean your denture and examine your mouth for any signs of problems, such as gum infections or oral cancer. We can also reline (adjust) your prosthetic if you ever notice that it does not fit as well as it used to.
Of course, regular dental checkups are just one aspect of denture aftercare. Here are some other steps you should take in order to maintain a healthy and functional smile:
Removeable Dentures
Remove After Eating
It would be good to get into the habit of removing your dentures after every meal so you can give them a quick rinse. This can prevent food debris and plaque from building up on them and leading to odors and discoloration. Be sure to use cool or lukewarm water when you are rinsing your prosthetic; hot water could cause them to warp and lose their fit.
Clean Your Restoration
In addition to rinsing your denture after eating, you should also remove it each night before bed so you can thoroughly clean it. Use a soft-bristled brush and a small amount of clear hand soap or denture cleanser to brush away bacteria and debris from all of your prosthetic’s little nooks and crannies. Do not use regular toothpaste; it is abrasive and might scratch your artificial teeth.
Once you finish brushing your dentures, do not replace them in your mouth right away. It is generally best to store them in water or a denture-cleansing solution overnight.
Keep Your Dentures Safe
It is important to handle dentures carefully to minimize the risk of damage. For example, when you remove your dentures, it is best to do so above a folded towel or a sink full of water so they will have a soft landing if you accidentally drop them.
Additionally, extra precautions are in order if you are around pets or small children. Your dentures should be placed somewhere they will not be subject to the curiosity of young minds or playful animals.
Remove When You Sleep
Some people make the mistake of wearing their denture to bed each night. However, that can lead to gum irritation, an increased risk of respiratory infections, bad breath, and other issues. You should remove your denture each night so your gums and other oral tissues can have a chance to breathe before another long day of smiling, eating, and speaking. Be sure to store your prosthetic in water or a cleansing solution so it does not dry out and lose its shape.
Notice Changes
You may notice some changes to the way your dentures fit and function over time. For example, they might start to feel a little loose, or you may need to start using more adhesive than usual to keep them in place. Such signs are an indication that you should visit a dentist so your dentures can be relined or replaced. Other issues, such as gum sores or irritation, also strongly indicate the need to seek professional care.
Denture FAQs
Should I Have All My Teeth Pulled to Get Dentures?
Having all your teeth pulled to get dentures should be considered only as a last resort. Dr. Cohen always prioritizes repairing damaged teeth over extraction. Tooth extractions are usually recommended only if a tooth is severely damaged due to decay, infection, or trauma. If all teeth in an arch are decayed or affected by gum disease, dentures in St. Johns might be more cost-effective than individual repairs.
While multiple extractions can be done in one visit, it's crucial to explore all options before opting for dentures. Dr. Cohen will assess your situation carefully and recommend the best course of action to maintain your oral health and quality of life.
Will It Hurt to Get Dentures?
Discomfort is common when getting dentures in St. Johns, especially if extraction is necessary beforehand. Prescription pain medication can help manage discomfort, which typically improves within 3 to 5 days post-surgery. Adjusting to new dentures may initially cause minor irritation, sometimes lasting months. Switching to a new set may prolong this adjustment period.
If your pain is persistent, contact Dr. Cohen right away as improper fitting or underlying oral health issues could be the cause. It's incredibly important to communicate any discomfort to ensure proper adjustments and any oral health issues are addressed.
Is It Hard to Talk with Dentures?
Speaking with dentures might be challenging as you adjust to the new sensation. The time it takes to adjust varies on a case-by-case basis, but time and practice can expedite the process.
Lisping may occur initially due to palate changes. Luckily, you can easily resolve this with practice and correction techniques. Reading aloud and practicing pronunciation are beneficial exercises. Speaking slowly can also enhance clarity, especially during the adjustment period.
If your dentures shift while speaking, biting down and swallowing before talking can stabilize them. Denture adhesive can also provide extra stability during the adjustment phase. With patience, practice, and proper techniques, talking with dentures will become more comfortable over time.
Will Dentures Change the Shape of My Face?
Dentures can positively impact the shape of your face by providing support to facial muscles that may have sagged due to tooth loss. They help restore volume and prevent a sunken appearance.
However, ill-fitting dentures can compromise this support, potentially affecting facial shape. It's important to ensure that your dentures fit perfectly to provide adequate support to your facial muscles. Regular checkups with Dr. Cohen are necessary to ensure proper fit, and any signs of ill-fitting dentures may require immediate refitting or replacement to maintain the desired facial appearance.
