FAQ | Dentures
If your tooth loss has you considering dentures, you’re not alone. Dentures, also known as false teeth, help approximately 20 million Americans overcome the challenges of their tooth loss.
When tooth loss (edentulism) occurs, a person’s health can be impacted significantly. For instance, lost teeth can make eating, talking, and even kissing difficult. In addition, some people with missing teeth report lower confidence in social, work, and romantic situations. Thankfully, dentures can help you laugh, talk, and smile with confidence every day!
Answers to Common Custom-Fit Dentures and Implant-Supported Dentures from Experienced Dental Team Near Akron, Ohio
The team at Munroe Falls Family Dentistry has some answers to the most common questions we hear about dentures. With over 20 years of experience, we can help you find the right custom-fit dentures or implant-supported dentures to restore your smile and confidence. We hope these questions give you some guidance and reassurance; however, we don’t intend them to replace the advice of your dentist! Each individual should ask their dentist about what denture options suit their needs and situation best.
Today’s dentures look and function better than ever.
Furthermore, more options exist than ever before. This FAQ page aims to provide informational guidance as you consider treating your tooth loss with dentures.
To reveal an answer, simply click on the question below.
How long does it take to get dentures?
The process of getting dentures can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 4 months. How long it will take you to get dentures will depend upon two key elements. First, what type of dentures you choose will affect how long the process takes. For instance, traditional dentures take less time to completion than implant-supported dentures do. Second, the condition of any of your remaining teeth plays a role. To explain, if you have unhealthy teeth in your mouth, your dentist will want to treat them or remove them before fitting you for dentures. Of course, the more dental work needed before the denture fitting can begin adds time to the entire process. To get the best answer for your situation, you’ll need to consult with your dentist. They will be able to assess your unique situation and give you a timeline from there.
Will I have to go toothless while I wait for my dentures?
Absolutely not! Patients often put off getting dentures for fear they will have to report to work or social events without teeth! Dentists can fit you with temporary dentures if needed after extractions (this will give your mouth time to heal before getting the permanent dentures), so you don’t have to be without teeth!
Will everyone be able to tell I got dentures?
Usually, people might notice that something about you looks new, brighter, or even younger! Loved ones–people who know your smile the best–are the ones most likely to notice a change if it’s very different. Some patients welcome a completely new smile when it’s time to get dentures, while others want just a subtle improvement. At Munroe Falls Family Dentistry, we recommend patients ask a close friend or relative accompany them during the denture selection process to ensure the best results. A trusted opinion from someone who knows and loves your smile can help you pick the most natural color and shape for your smile. Of course, for some, creating a new improved smile with dentures that everyone will notice is a welcomed perk!
Will my dentures fall out when I laugh, eat, or yawn?
Dentures that fit properly in jaws with good bone support stay put. In fact, if your dentures fit well and your have the bone structure necessary to support them, you should not need dental adhesives. If your dentures slip and fall out, you should see your dentist right away. Your dentures may need an alignment and/or your bone support may need to be evaluated. Either way, your dentist will be able to assess the fit and help make the necessary adjustments.
Will I still be able to eat corn on the cob with dentures?
Many of today’s denture wearers can eat corn on the cob. However, if your jaws suffer from bone issues, you may need implant supported dentures in order to support a denture correctly.. At first, it may take a little practice to get used to the different feel of the bite, but there’s no reason you can’t enjoy most foods. Typically dentists recommend denture wearers use caution with hard nuts and candies because they can break or chip your dentures. These foods can break or chip natural teeth, though, so the advice really isn’t any different.
Do I still have to go to annual dental check ups with complete dentures?
Yes, denture wearers still need annual dental check ups. Your dentist will want to assess your gum health and denture fit. Without natural teeth or implants, your jaw bone can start to resorb. As a result, dentures fit more loosely and need regular adjustments. Properly fitted dentures can help slow this deterioration, so regular dental check ups remain a must!
Can I use whitening toothpastes to brighten my dentures and remove stains?
No, whitening toothpastes and whitening strips should not be used on your dentures. These products contain chemicals that can weaken your dentures and/or tarnish and corrode any metal portions. Instead, ask your dentist to recommend a non-abrasive denture cleaner that’s right for your style of dentures. For deeper stains, your dentist may suggest some professional products or recommend changing out the full denture to choose the tooth shade you want.
How can I prevent denture stains?
First, be sure to brush your dentures every day with a soft, denture-safe toothbrush and non-abrasive cleaner. Second, brush and rinse soon after eating foods known for their staining properties. Common offenders include berries, coffee, tomato sauce, and red wine. The longer these remain on your dentures, the more likely they are to stain them.
How long do dentures last?
The quality of your dentures will determine how long they last. Also, your gum and bone health can impact how long your dentures fit properly in your mouth. Finally, the quality of care you give your dentures impacts their longevity. As a general rule, most denture wearers need to relign their dentures every 3 to 5 years to maintain the best fit, function, and appearance.
How much do dentures cost?
With so many options available today, you can get dentures to fit most budgets. Keep in mind, too, that different types of dentures will last different amounts of time. Thus, some dentures may cost less up front, but they may require more frequent replacement or religning. On average, for a fully custom-fit set up upper dentures, you should expect to pay anywhere between $1,400 – $1800. A full custom-fit of upper and lower dentures, then, range from $2800-$3600. If you select implant-supported dentures, the cost goes up depending on the number and placement of implants. Implant supported dentures, though, tend to last longer and fit more securely. As a result, they also may require fewer fittings and adjustments. Finally, to determine the full cost of your dentures, be sure to ask your dentist what the price includes. Some dentists include unlimited fittings and adjustments into the cost, while others charge an office visit for each one. Thus, it’s important to gather all that information to get a total price for your dentures and to compare apples to apples.
Custom-Fit Dentures and Implant-Supported Dentures at Munroe Falls Family Dentistry
The team at Munroe Falls Family Dentistry understands that your smile impacts every aspect of your life. When considering dentures, we also understand the additional emotional concerns many people struggle with. Our experienced team pledges to help you get select custom-fit dentures that fit well and function properly. Whether you need a full upper and lower set, or a bridge, or implant supported dentures, we have the experience you need and the compassion you deserve.