Dentures – Corbin, KY

Effects of Missing Teeth

A person can potentially lose their teeth for several reasons, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and facial injury. Certain systemic and developmental conditions can also increase the risk of tooth loss. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, missing teeth can have profound consequences on your oral health, including:

• Difficulty speaking
• Trouble eating/chewing
• Facial sagging
• Lower self-esteem
• Jawbone deterioration
• Further tooth loss

What Qualifies You for Dentures?

If you want to be considered a good candidate for dentures, you’ll first need to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Whitaker. She’ll perform a thorough oral examination to understand your situation and determine how these restorations can help your smile. For instance, patients who suffer from significant tooth loss, dental sensitivity, decay, or gum and jawbone issues may be qualified for dentures. That said, you’ll have to commit to keeping good oral hygiene to make the most of your restorations.

The type of denture you’ll receive will depend on the number of missing pearly whites. These may include partial, full, implant, or even immediate dentures. Traditional ones, however, are more cost-effective than the other options, meaning you won’t have to break the bank to afford them.

Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options

Not eligible for dentures? That’s okay! Dr. Whitaker will be more than happy to go over your alternative tooth-replacement treatments, including:

• Dental Bridges – This option is mostly reserved for patients who are missing one or multiple teeth in a row. These restorations consist of two dental crowns that are fitted over healthy abutment teeth, while the artificial teeth (pontics) sit atop the gum line. This treatment requires preparing your adjacent teeth by removing a tiny amount of enamel.
• Dental Implants – Instead of relying on your nearby teeth or gums, dental implants will anchor your restorations directly to your jawbone. These metal posts will serve as your new tooth roots, creating a stable and lifelike foundation for your brand-new smile. You can also expect your results to last several decades to a lifetime with proper care!

Learn More About Dental Bridges

Learn More About Dental Implants

What Are Dentures Made Of?

Dentures are composed of two different parts: the base and the replacement teeth. Here is what each one looks like:

• Base: The base of the dentures is the structure that supports the replacement teeth. It can be made from numerous different materials, including acrylic, nylon, and resin. In the majority of cases, acrylic is used because it can be tailored to closely resemble gum tissue. This results in a more natural appearance.
• Teeth: The replacement teeth are secured onto the denture base. Most of the time, the teeth are made from resin or porcelain because it looks and feels just like tooth enamel. It even reflects light in a similar way. Since porcelain can be abrasive against natural teeth it is usually only recommended for dentures.

The Denture Creation Process

1. Your dentist will begin by taking measurements of your jaw and impressions of your mouth. This is used to create a model that is the exact size and shape of your mouth. This way, your final denture will fit perfectly.
2. The model is sent to the dental laboratory where your dentures will be created. First, a wax replica of your gumline is made. Then, the replacement teeth are set into place using a mechanical device known as an “articulator.” Adjustments are made by a lab technician.
3. Your dentures are sent back to your dentist for a fitting. If everything looks good, they are returned to the laboratory to complete the process.
4. After the dentures are back in the lab, the wax will need to be replaced with acrylic. To do this, the lab tech places the dentures into a flask. Plaster is poured in to maintain the shape of the dentures. Then, the entire flask is placed in hot water to melt the wax.
5. The plaster is carefully removed from the denture using lab tools. The dentures are then placed into an ultrasonic bath to wash away the rest of the plaster.
6. Any excess acrylic is cut away from the dentures. Then, they are polished to perfection.
7. Now that your dentures are finished, they are returned to the dental office so you can try them on. If everything is happy with the results, you can walk away from the practice with a beautiful, complete smile!

Adjusting to Your New Dentures

After you get dentures, it’s not uncommon to experience some soreness, but this isn’t something to worry about. Temporary discomfort is completely normal as your mouth adjusts to the prosthetic. After some time, your dentures will begin to feel more and more like your natural teeth. Remember to stick to soft foods and exercise your facial muscles. If any soreness persists or you have concerns about your dentures, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dentures

There's no one-size-fits-all denture because every mouth is as unique as fingerprints. As a result, there's no flat fee because we wouldn't want you paying for anything you don't need.

After examining your mouth and learning more about your goals, your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan. While every situation differs, the cost of replacing missing teeth often includes:

• Preliminary Treatments: Besides your consultation and any diagnostic imaging, it's not unusual to need a little prep work, like tooth extractions or gum disease therapy.
• The Number of Teeth and Arches: The number of teeth you're replacing will determine the type of denture you need, like a partial or full. Treating 1 or 2 arches will also affect the cost.
• Materials Used: Discounted materials cost less, but they can be of low quality that can compromise the fit, durability, and aesthetics of your dentures. It's better to choose quality materials to ensure your investment lasts.
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Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?

Initially, implant dentures cost more than traditional options, but they are the most affordable overall. Dental implants have over a 95% success rate and are proven to last for decades. Not to mention, they preserve your jawbone, which traditional dentures can't do.

You'll improve your oral health and maintain your facial structure using a solution that can last for a lifetime. You'll save money down the road because you'll never have to budget for replacements.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?

Many dental plans can be used to offset the cost of certain steps in your treatment, like your consultation or any preliminary procedures. Most dental insurance considers dentures a major service, so they can be covered about 50% after meeting your animal deductible. A member of our team will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize any coverage to lower the amount you will pay.

Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable

We will review your estimate and explain your payment options, which include:

• Traditional Payments: Our office accepts all traditional payment methods, like cash, personal checks, and credit cards.
• Monthly Payments: You can pay any out-of-pocket expenses using monthly installments through CareCredit. Based on your credit approval, you can enjoy little or no interest in financing.

We will help you find the solutions you need to invest in a new set of teeth. If you have any questions about your payment options, or you're ready to schedule your consultation, contact our office today.

Removable Dentures

Remove After Eating

Plaque build-up and food debris are two things you do not want accumulating on your dentures. This is why it’s important to remove them after eating a meal. This cuts down on the possibility of gum disease and other serious oral health problems. But you’ll want to be sure that you don’t use hot water when rinsing your dentures, as this can warp the materials and damage them.

Clean Your Restoration

Keeping your restoration clean is an essential component of maintaining a longer-lasting set of teeth. This means that they need to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a day. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and dish soap, you can remove saliva and harmful particles that might otherwise create problems inside your mouth. It’s best to stay away from regular toothpaste, as it is highly abrasive and can scratch your dentures.

Keep Your Dentures Safe

If you have kids or pets in the home, you’ll want to make sure that you keep your dentures out of sight. The reason is that little hands and furry friends can damage or lose your artificial teeth, which can be a costly problem for you.

You’ll also want to make sure that you place a towel in the basin of your sink when cleaning your dentures, as an accidental slip can cause them to break if they hit the porcelain hard enough.

Remove Dentures When You Sleep

You may not wish to remove your dentures when going to bed, but you’ll be glad you did once you learn why it’s important. Apart from the fact that this time gives your bone and gums a break from the pressure placed on them throughout the day, being void of your artificial teeth also allows your mouth to regain valuable nutrients that are lost when dentures are in place.

The removal of your dentures at night also creates a healthier environment for them once you reinsert them in the morning. Moisture and plaque that build underneath the prosthetic can accumulate and lead to pneumonia – another important reason to take them out at night.

When you do, make sure that you soak them in denture cleaner so that they are free of any harmful bacteria.

Notice Changes

While wearing dentures, you will likely notice various changes that occur over time. Since there is nothing to stimulate your jawbone, this area of your mouth may begin to shrink, causing your prosthetic to no longer fit correctly. This is why relining and replacement are necessary aspects of wearing dentures. The sooner you seek treatment for ill-fitting dentures, the greater your chances of maintaining a healthier, more comfortable smile.