When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are multiple options available, one of which is dentures. Although dentures are never the same as natural teeth, or as functional as something fixed in place like a bridge or an implant, dentures are a very cost effective way to replace multiple missing teeth in one shot. With current advances in technologies there are many options a patient has for getting a denture that fits well and looks great. If you are missing teeth, or have dentures now that you are not happy with, contact us today for a consult and find out what we can do for you. To learn more about dentures, read on.
Metal vs Metal Free
There are various options for dentures these days, but regardless of the type, dentures have one of two basic styles, a metal framework and clasping, or all plastic. Generally the metal frameworks are more solid and provide the best long term fit and durability, but can be a bit unsightly and in some cases produce a metallic taste. On the other hand, plastic dentures may be thicker and a bit weaker, many of them can be easier to modify in the future if more teeth need to be added to them. There are also some plastic type dentures that try to mimic the thinness and durability of dentures with a metal framework, but it should be noted that these are almost impossible to modify in the future and will likely need replacing on a more frequent bases. As the materials change, so do the prices. Dentures can cost anywhere from $600 to over $1400 depending on the design (Schau Dental pricing – some offices and denturists can charge significantly more).
The photos to the right can give you an idea of the two types of dentures. The first photo shows a standard partial denture with metal framework. The next three photos show a more cosmetic, nylon based partial denture that is metal free. As there are many variables that can determine which partial denture design is best for you, be sure to ask lots of questions. At Schau Dental, it is our policy to design dentures that will take into account any changes that may happen with your oral health for at least the next ten years, and hopefully the denture will still be serviceable for another ten after that.
Single Tooth Replacement
Dentures are a very economical way to cosmetically replace a single missing front tooth. Generally the design is an all plastic denture which may or may not have any clasps. These dentures primarily serve a cosmetic role more so than a functional one, and overall function will vary from patient to patient and based on overall design. As these designs are fairly simple, the cost is often around $600, and if done for temporary purposes, like waiting for a dental implant, the cost can be even lower.
To get an idea of the cosmetic difference a single tooth partial can make, check out the photo to the right and decide for yourself which looks better.
Rejuvenate a Smile
When it comes to complete dentures, a lot can be done to change someones overall look. As changes to jaw structures occur over time, complete dentures will need to be replaced or modified along the way. When complete dentures are made, teeth can be made longer, shorter, fuller, whiter, etc. Some of the structural components are determined by the base anatomy in order to ensure the denture is functional, but a lot can be done cosmetically to really enhance a smile.
For this sample case, the patient’s old complete upper denture was getting old and needed replacing. The patient was not overly happy with the look of her teeth as with time the denture settled more resulting in loss of fullness of her teeth when smiling. To correct this, when Dr. Schau made the new denture the shape and positioning of the teeth were changed to create a fuller, more youthful smile.
