When it comes to dentures, finding the right dentist is essential. There are a few key factors you should look for when researching dentists for dentures.
You will want to find a dentist with experience performing the procedure, who takes dental insurance plans from your dental insurance company, uses high-quality materials and offers a warranty on their work. These are just a few things you should remember when looking for the right dentist for dentures. Then, with some research, you should find a dentist who meets all your needs.
This article will discuss how to choose the right dentist for dentures or dental implants.
What Are Dentures
Dentures are artificial teeth used to replace missing teeth. They can be used to replace all of the teeth in the mouth (full dentures), just a few teeth (partial dentures), or even one missing tooth (dental bridges). Dentures are made from various materials, including porcelain, plastic, and metal.
Dentures are usually worn during the day and removed at night. It is best to clean them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and denture cleaner. For oral hygiene, you must remove dentures at night so that your gums can rest and breathe.
How to Choose the Right Dentist for Dentures
When choosing the right dentist for dentures, you should keep a few key factors in mind. Here are a few things to look for when researching dental care providers that offer dentures:
Experience
Experience is always one of the most critical factors when finding a dentist. After all, dental procedures can be complex and delicate, so you want to ensure that your dentist has the skills and knowledge necessary to provide the best possible dental work for your oral health.
It is even more important to find a dentist with experience in this area if you require dentures. High-quality dentures require a high level of precision. A dentist must carefully fit them to ensure they function properly and keep your mouth healthy! Therefore, you will want to find a dentist with significant experience taking impressions, fitting dentures, and making necessary adjustments.
With the right dentist on your side, you can be confident that you will receive the high-quality care you need and deserve.
Dental Insurance
The cost of dentures can be a significant barrier to oral health for many people. Fortunately, most dental insurance plans offer some coverage for dentures. However, it is crucial to make sure you choose a dentist who participates in your dental plans. Otherwise, you may be responsible for the total cost of your dentures, even if your full coverage dental insurance covers dentures!
When selecting a dentist, check whether they participate in the dental plan you have through your dental insurance company. You can usually find this information on the dentist’s website or by calling their office. You may also want to call your dental insurance company for a list of providers you may see covered by your dental coverage. Once you have found a participating dentist, you can be confident that you will receive your dental insurance company’s coverage.
High-Quality Materials
Ask your dentist about their materials when it comes time to get dentures. You’ll want to ensure they use high-quality materials that will last a long time. There are various materials that a dentist can use for dentures. Be sure to ask about the different options and choose the best one to meet your needs.
Dentists typically use two different materials for dentures: acrylic and porcelain. Acrylic is a less expensive option but is not as durable as porcelain. Porcelain is more expensive than acrylic, but higher denture costs mean this option is much more durable and looks more natural. Be sure to ask your dentist about the pros and cons of each material before deciding.
Be aware that some dental insurance only covers dentures using specific materials. Check your dental plan for a complete list of coverage and out-of-pocket dental care costs.
Location
When choosing a dentist’s office, it is important to consider more than just their qualifications. While experience and training are essential factors, the dentist’s location can also be a significant consideration, especially for a procedure as involved as the treatment plan for conventional dentures.
For one thing, finding a dentist who is convenient for you to visit is important. If the dentist is too far away, you may be less likely to keep up with your regular appointments. In addition, if you have an emergency, you will want to be able to get to the dentist quickly.
Warranty
After spending hours carefully researching and selecting the perfect set of dentures, the last thing you want is for them to break or become damaged. You want to be able to get them fixed or replaced without out-of-pocket costs! Fortunately, many dentists offer a warranty on their work, giving you peace of mind if anything goes wrong.
In most cases, the warranty will cover repairs or replacements if your dentures are not fitting correctly, break, or become damaged within a specific time frame. Some dentists may even offer a lifetime warranty, ensuring that your dentures always look their best.
When selecting a dentist, be sure to ask for the complete details on their warranty policy to find the one that best meets your needs. A warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected and ensures you get the best possible value for your money.
These are just a few things you should keep in mind when looking for the right dentist for dentures. With a bit of research, you should be able to find a dentist who meets all of your needs.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Many people dread getting dentures, but there is no need to worry. The process is relatively straightforward and typically takes just a few hours.
- First, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and gums. These impressions will be used to create a mold for your dentures.
- Next, they will select the custom dentures’ size, shape, and color that will best suit your needs. Your input is vital at this stage, as you will be the one wearing the dentures.
- After taking impressions, the next step in the dental treatment is to numb your mouth and pull the remaining teeth. This process is typically quick and painless, thanks to modern dental anesthesia.
- The dentist will then fit you with a set of temporary dentures. These dentures will help you get used to the feel of wearing them and allow your gums to heal.
- Once your gums have healed, you will return to the dentist to have your permanent dentures fitted and make any necessary adjustments. Now is the time to ask questions or express any concerns you may have.
- After the fitting, you can take your dentures home and enjoy all the benefits! With proper care, your dentures should last for many years. So, there is no need to put off getting them any longer!
How to Care For Your Dentures After the Procedure
Caring for your dentures is vital if you want them to last.
Dentures must be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque, just like natural teeth. Otherwise, they can become stained and start to harbor bacteria.
Of course, brushing your dentures isn’t quite the same as brushing your teeth. You’ll need to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser designed to clean dentures. In addition, you should soak dentures in a mild cleanser overnight to prevent them from drying out.
To avoid damaging your dentures, handling them with care is important. For example, don’t chew on hard foods with your dentures, and be careful not to drop them. However, if your dentures do break, they can usually be repaired by a qualified dentist. In addition, you’ll need to be careful not to damage your dentures by avoiding hot water and harsh chemicals. With proper care, your dentures can last for many years. So take the time to brush them every day, and you’ll enjoy a healthy smile for years to come.
The Cost of Dentures
When it comes to dentures, many factors can affect the cost. The type of dentures you need, the materials used, and the dentist you choose can play a role in the final price tag. However, you can do a few things to save money on the total cost of your dentures.
Purchase Dental Insurance
One idea is to look for affordable coverage through dental insurance plans that cover dentures. Many people who need dentures can’t afford full coverage dental plans; many will provide dental insurance that covers at least a portion of the cost of dentures. If you need dentures, it may be worthwhile to speak with a licensed agent about purchasing a dental insurance policy. Be sure to look into dental plan coverage types, plan provisions, and what dental care costs look like on the dental plan you intend to purchase!
Sign Up for a Dental Discount Plan
If dental insurance options aren’t available to you, or if you can’t afford the premium, consider signing up for a discount plan. Dental discount plans are not dental insurance. Still, they offer substantial discounts on a wide range of dental services, including dentures. These health benefit plans make it easier to purchase affordable dentures and get high-quality dental care, including preventive care and other general dentistry procedures.
Choose a Different Material
You may also choose a less expensive material for your dentures. For example, acrylic dentures are typically less costly than porcelain dentures. However, it’s essential to remember that the cheaper option may not be the best option for you. Be sure to consult with your dentist to find the material that’s best suited for your needs.
Choose a Different Type of Denture
Another way to save money is to choose a less expensive type of denture. For example, partial dentures are typically cheaper than complete dentures. So if you only need a few teeth replaced, a partial could be a good option.
Seek Out a Dental School
Getting your dentures from a dental school or clinic, which can offer discounts, can be another way to reduce the cost. If you’re considering this option, be sure to ask about the quality of the materials and the experience of the dentist or dental student working on your dentures.
Speak With Your Dentist About Payment Plans
If dental costs are too high, you can ask your dentist about payment plans or financing options. For example, your dentist may have a billing policy for those without insurance coverage or dental coverage of any sort with a fee schedule that allows you to make payments over time for procedures like root canals, oral surgery, full dentures, and other expensive services provided.
These options may even be available to those with dental benefits through their dental insurance coverage that has hit its annual limits on dental treatments or to patients stuck within a waiting period on their dental insurance but need dental care services before the insurance company’s waiting period is over.
If not, there are companies, such as Care Credit, that cater to health-related financing with no waiting period necessary before seeking out dental care.
Seek Out Special Offers
Be sure to ask about any discounts or specials available. Many dentists offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, and cash customers. So be sure to ask about any specials that could help you save money on your dentures.
Shop Around
Finally, shop around and compare prices before choosing a dentist. Of course, one of the simplest ways to save money on dentures is to compare services.
Dentists charge different rates for their services, so it’s crucial to find one who is both qualified and affordable. Get quotes from several different dentists before making your final decision.
In addition, be sure to ask about any specials or discounts that may be available. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find the perfect dentist for your needs.
Denture FAQs
Does all dental insurance cover dentures?
No, not all dental insurance plans cover dentures. However, many dental plans through an insurance company and dental discount plans cover at least a portion of the cost. So if you’re considering dentures, it may be worth your while to purchase a dental insurance policy.
How often should I clean my dentures?
It would be best to brush your dentures at least once a day. In addition, you should soak dentures in a mild cleanser overnight to prevent them from drying out.
Can I eat anything I want with dentures?
No. You should avoid hard foods, sticky foods, and hot drinks. Chewing on hard foods can damage your dentures, and sticky foods can cause them to come loose. Drinks that are too hot can cause your dentures to warp.
What should I do if my denture breaks?
If your denture breaks, you should take it to a dentist as soon as possible to have it repaired or replaced.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures can last for many years with proper care. However, they will eventually need to be relined or replaced.
If I’m replacing missing teeth with dentures, do I have to have the remaining teeth pulled?
No. Depending on the condition of your teeth, it may be possible to keep them and use them to support the denture. However, it’s best to discuss this with your dentist to determine the best option for you.
What is the best way to store my dentures when I’m not wearing them?
It would be best to soak your dentures in a mild cleanser overnight. This will help prevent them from drying out.
What are the pros and cons of getting dentures?
The main pro of getting dentures is that they can improve your appearance and give you back your smile. The main con is that they can be expensive.
How long does it take to get used to wearing dentures?
It usually takes a few weeks to get used to wearing dentures. In the meantime; you may experience some discomfort and difficulty speaking and eating. However, this discomfort will pass as you get used to your new dentures.
What is the difference between partial and complete dentures?
Partial dentures are used to replace one or more missing teeth, while complete dentures replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
What are immediate dentures?
Immediate dentures are made in advance and can be placed immediately after your natural teeth are removed.
Are partial or complete dentures better for oral health?
There is no definitive answer to this question. It depends on your situation.
How do I know if I need dentures?
If you are missing teeth, you are a candidate for dentures and should start thinking about getting them as soon as possible. Dentures can help to improve your appearance and make it easier to eat and speak.
Make an Appointment to Speak with Your Dentist About Dentures
If you think dentures are right for you, the first step is to make an appointment with a dentist. They will be able to examine your mouth and teeth and let you know if dentures are the best option for you.
When it comes to dentures, there are several factors you need to consider before making a decision. Cost, durability, and how long they will last are important considerations. You also need to consider what type of denture is best for your situation. For example, partial dentures may be better for your oral health than complete dentures, but it depends on your situation.
No matter what you decide, research and choose a qualified dentist who can offer you the best possible service. Then, with a little bit of effort, you should be able to find the perfect dentist for your needs.
Patient Empowered Dentistry
If you are searching for a dentist to give you back your smile with a new set of dentures, Patient Empowered Dentistry is here to help. We offer a variety of denture services, from partial to complete, cleanings to fillings, and can work with you to find the best solution for your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams!
