Studies show that 32% of patients with removable partial dentures were embarrassed over their dentures. Another 62% stated they wish there was more education about when they were younger about oral care.
Dentures are sometimes unavoidable. As you age, losing teeth can make it more challenging to chew food. However, early gum diseases or tooth decay can affect younger populations too.
Have you wondered if a dentist in Monument Colorado works with natural-looking denture fittings? In short – the answer is yes, and we are here to tell you more about it.
In our complete guide, we will go over what dentures are, types, costs, and much more. Keep reading on and learn more about getting started today!
What Are Dentures?
A common misconception about dental care and dentures is that you only need them once you are older. Most patients might only picture complete sets, but there are several types of dentures, including:
- Full dentures
- Partial dentures
- Implant-supported dentures
Dentures are false teeth that you can remove, including upper and lower jaw options.
Implant-supported dentures closely mimic natural teeth, using titanium screws and prosthetics to eliminate many of the hassles and difficulties of traditional dentures.
Additionally, they appear natural and make it easier for patients to chew without worrying about their dentures slipping.
Why Do You Need Dentures?
Searching for a “dentist in Monument Colorado dentures” is the first step to deciding if you need dentures. Ultimately, you want an expert Colorado dentist to help assess your teeth and jaw alignment. Here are a few common reasons why you may need dentures:
- Lost teeth
- Tooth decay
- Difficulty eating
- To maintain facial appearance
- Reducing bone loss
Dentures also prevent wear on your natural teeth. If you have a few missing teeth, it can cause further jaw and tooth misalignment.
This places more pressure on your remaining teeth, speeding up the decay rate. Custom-fitted dentures by Monument dentists can reduce pain, discomfort, and inability to eat certain foods.
How Are Dentures Fitted?
After you schedule an appointment with one of the many dentists in Colorado, here are a few steps that you will go through to get properly fitted dentures:
- Pre-denture appointment (e.g., review medical history and oral health)
- Measurements and fitting
- Wax fittings
- Final denture fitting
The process is simple, and you will have multiple appointments that ensure it is properly fitted. Don’t neglect to schedule appointments if you aren’t happy with the fitting since improperly fitted dentures have risks.
What If You Already Have Dentures?
If you already have dentures, but don’t like how they fit, Monument, Colorado dentists can help. Regular dental appointments are critical to ensuring your dentures fit correctly.
Dentures can start becoming loose as your gum lines change or bones shrink. When this happens, dentures start fitting looser than they originally did. The primary issues and risks with loose dentures are:
- Mouth sores
- Lack of adequate chewing
- Changes in facial features
Eventually, you may stop wearing your dentures entirely. This can further change your tooth and jaw alignment, making it necessary to remold an entire set. In some cases, dentists can simply adjust your old dentures for a better fit.
Denture Costs
Most insurances like Medicare do not cover dentures. There are exceptions to this rule, such as emergent dental care. Original Medicare does not cover:
- Cleanings
- Fillings
- Tooth extractions
- Dentures
However, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be in luck! Medicare Advantage offers broader services than Original Medicare, such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage. Look at your insurance and comprehensive dental coverage.
Dentures do not fall under preventative services such as cleanings and fillings, limiting some of these plans. Typically, if insurance covers dentures, you will have a co-pay or deductible that must be met.
On average, fixed or implant-supported dentures are more expensive. The materials also affect the cost, with porcelain being more expensive than acrylic-based dentures.
If paying out-of-pocket, denture costs will range from $500 to $8,000, depending on full or partial sets, materials, and type. Remember that implants last longer and could reduce long-term costs and further damage your jaw or natural teeth.
How to Care For Your Dentures
Dentures require regular cleaning that goes beyond simple brushing. For starters, regular toothpaste is often too abrasive for denture materials. Instead, purchase a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleanser.
Your family dentist can help you decide which brands work best for your materials. When going to bed, it is common that people will let their removable dentures soak overnight in a gentle cleansing solution.
If you let your dentures dry out, they could lose their mold and become brittle. How often should you wash them?
Most dental experts recommend cleaning your dentures twice daily. Keep your schedule consistent to avoid plaque and tartar build-up.
You can use mouthwash to help remove bacteria and keep up with your oral care. Lastly, don’t forget to schedule regular dental cleanings. Visiting your dentist ensures your dentures will last for years to come.
Comprehensive dental services also help prevent gum disease and improve oral care.
Visiting a Dentist in Monument Colorado
Have you thought about visiting a dentist in Monument Colorado to see how they can assist you with denture fittings? Whether you have never had dentures before or need a tune-up, Monument dentists have you covered.
Dentures are crucial for overall oral health and for preventing tooth or bone decay. At our dental facility, we specialize in several cosmetic, comprehensive, and preventative dental care. We can go over your denture fitting options and costs, so contact us today and get started!
