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Dentures – Lakewood, CO

Restore Your Smile and Biting Force

Smiling man and womanMore than 100 million Americans are missing teeth, and of that, about 40 million are missing all of their teeth. If you’re part of that statistic, then you already know how difficult it can make life. Eating, speaking, and even smiling can become near impossibilities without exposing the gaps in your grin. Luckily, there’s a solution – dentures in Lakewood can restore your smile and biting force as much as 70% of what they once were. These prostheses allow you to chew, talk, and smile with complete confidence once more. If you’re sick of suffering through missing teeth, schedule a consultation with us to see if dentures are the right way to solve your problem.

Why Choose Lakewood Complete Dentistry for Dentures?

  • Custom-Made for Each Individual Patient
  • Restores Your Biting Force Up to 70%
  • Allows You to Smile with Complete Confidence Again

What Are the Types of Dentures?

Animation of implant crown

There are two types of dentures: full and partial. When someone says the word “dentures,” what comes to mind is most likely a set of full dentures. They consist of a set of artificial teeth attached to an acrylic base the color of gum tissue. This base is secured to your gumline with natural suction and denture adhesive if necessary. If you’re missing all of your teeth on a single arch, then your dentist in Lakewood, Dr. Vinnie, will highly suggest getting a full denture.

Partial dentures, also called partials, are ideal for patients who are only missing a few teeth on either arch. These artificial teeth are connected to a metal framework that attaches to your remaining teeth with clasps. Partials are designed to blend right in with the rest of your smile, creating a beautiful set of pearly whites that no one can tell isn’t “natural.”

Who’s a Good Candidate for Dentures?

a person smiling and holding dentures

 

Dentures are one of the most versatile tooth-replacement options around, and here at Lakewood Complete Dentistry, we can easily look at your mouth and determine how dentures can save your smile! Whether you’re missing one, two, several, or all of your pearly whites, you’ll be happy to hear that nearly everyone is potentially a good candidate for dentures. Even if you’re not eligible at first, we can help you restore the health of your smile to the point where dentures become a viable solution.

Effects of Missing Teeth

a closeup of a smile with missing teeth

 

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, some of the most common causes of missing teeth are simply the result of poor oral hygiene that’s led to gum disease, dental decay, and other problems that can progress rapidly. All of these issues are problematic on their own, but when they lead to missing teeth, your oral health is in considerable danger.

Perhaps the biggest issue concerning missing teeth is the likelihood for additional teeth to fall out as they lean towards the gaps in your smile; this domino effect is hard to stop once it’s begun, and restoring lost teeth is the only way to counter it. Another huge issue is the effect it has on your jawbone; your jaw can begin to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This will cause the bone tissue to weaken, further increasing the risk of tooth loss. Plus, without a root to promote a strong jawbone, you might also experience complications like facial sagging, difficulty eating, and dampened self-esteem.

What Qualifies You for Dentures?

a patient about to receive his dentures

 

The majority of patients who suffer from extensive tooth loss are good candidates for dentures, so barring a few exceptions, you’re likely eligible for the tried-and-true prosthetics! As long as you’re in good general oral health and have healthy gums and enough jawbone density, we can determine which type of denture (partial or full) is best suited for your needs during your initial consultation. Those patients who receive dentures must commit to their dental health moving forward, but the results are well worth the diligence.

Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options

a patient speaking with a dental hygienist

 

Thanks to all the advancements in dental technology, various alternatives to dentures can replace lost teeth all the same. Here’s a little more about a couple of the other options we offer:

  • Dental bridges – These are often best for those who are only missing one or just a few teeth. However, the bridge requires healthy adjacent teeth surrounding the gap in order to remain supported.
  • Dental implants – These awesome restorations consist of titanium posts that are directly embedded into the jawbone for outstanding support. That said, they require sufficient bone density and optimal oral health to function but are able to last for virtually a lifetime.

Learn More About Dental Bridges

Learn More About Dental Implants

The Benefits of Dentures

An older man receiving dentures at a dentist’s office

Living without all your teeth is a challenge. Typically, the situation gets in the way of daily tasks – eating, speaking, smiling, etc. Dentures, however, can easily fix your tooth loss. The result would be a slew of perks that improve your quality of life! As for what these upsides are, our dental team will happily explain. Just keep reading to learn the benefits of dentures in Lakewood. Otherwise, feel free to call our office for details.

Psychological Benefits

A senior woman admiring her dentures in a hand mirror

As you might know, tooth loss can be hard to accept. Being without a full smile, after all, is unnerving. Therefore, it often decreases your self-esteem and body image. These changes, in turn, can prompt you to retreat from social settings and develop sadness or depression.

Dentures, though, solve this particular issue. By restoring your full smile, they’ll boost your self-confidence and lower your anxiety. Consequently, you’ll feel at ease about your looks, speech, eating ability, and more.

Clearer Enunciation

An older man talking with his adult son

When lacking teeth, it isn’t easy to speak. Pearly whites, you see, help position your lips and tongue for speech. Missing even a few will make some words hard to pronounce.

Thankfully, dentures can (and do) act as substitute teeth. They’ll thus support your tongue and lips for speech. You will, however, need to get used to them first. It takes practice to speak with these new teeth naturally.

Improves Nutrition

An older woman holding a green apple

Meals are tricky without a full set of teeth. That’s only natural – you need chompers to chew meals. As such, you may end up restricting your diet. Healthy foods with tough textures, especially, might be excluded for being too tough. Unfortunately, that kind of change will cause malnutrition or indigestion.

Of course, dentures would prevent these outcomes. Their artificial teeth chew food almost as well as natural ones. In other words, the restorations widen your dietary options and ensure proper nutrition.

Preserves Oral Health

An elderly man talking with his dentist about dentures

Tooth loss hurts more than a smile’s looks; it also harms your grin’s health. Its smile gaps, for starters,  serve as breeding spots for harmful bacteria. Even worse, these spaces also pull on your surrounding teeth. Left unchecked, this pulling will tilt the pearly whites until they fall out.

Still, dentures will protect oral health by “filling in” the gaps. They thus prevent nasty germs from growing freely. At the same time, they’ll stop your other chompers from tilting.

Expands Opportunities

A senior businessman working with colleagues in an office

For better or worse, you need a pretty smile for good first impressions. People notice your grin before any of your other features. As a result, gleaming teeth strengthen your connections – with friends, family, co-workers, and others.

Dentures, fortunately, give you such teeth. They use acrylic to look lifelike and blend seamlessly. Receiving treatment, then, will expand your opportunities with various peers. It might even help you land a promotion or raise at work! Should that happen, your dentures could practically pay for themselves!

What If I Want Dentures That Don’t Slip Around?

Animation of implant crowns

Even the most well-fitted dentures eventually start to slip while you talk and eat after a few years. In order to prevent this from occurring, we can place several dental implants in your jaw to secure your denture.

An average of four to six of these biocompatible titanium posts are inserted at an angle into your jawbone to replace the roots of your missing teeth. The implants will provide unparalleled stability so that your dentures will be firmly anchored in place. Your dentures can be either fixed or removable, depending on your personal preference. Additionally, dental implants can last up to three decades or even longer with proper maintenance. You can enjoy your prosthesis for the rest of your life if you take good care of it!

How Dentures are Made

A closeup of a top denture being held by a hand

If you decide to get dentures in Lakewood, you may wonder how they’re made. After all, it’s only fair that you know what went into your new teeth. That said, perhaps you aren’t sure where to find the relevant details. Well, look no further: the team at Lakewood Complete Dentistry has you covered. Below, you’ll find a summary of typical denture components and the process used to make them. Read it over to gain a new appreciation for dental restorations.

What are Dentures Made Of?

A model of a removable denture

Typically, dentures are made up of two parts: the base and the artificial teeth. Consider, then, the following details:

  • Denture Base – A denture’s base is the gum-colored part resting on your mouth’s tissues. Its main function is holding artificial teeth that replace your missing ones. A dental lab normally makes one from varying materials (acrylic, porcelain, etc.) but will choose the substance based on the type of denture needed.
  • Artificial Teeth – Artificial teeth are the tooth-replacing portions of a denture. As such, they’re made from resin or porcelain to ensure a natural look. Still, porcelain can be abrasive on adjacent teeth and is thus suggested only for full dentures.

The Denture Creation Process

A dental technician working on dentures

Generally, a dentist will customize a denture for the patient’s mouth. The result is that a multi-step process uniquely shapes any given one. Here’s a brief rundown of what those steps look like:

  • Step 1: The dentist takes an impression of your upper and lower gums. From there, the resulting model is sent to a lab to help create the dentures.
  • Step 2: Once crafted, the lab sends the wax dentures to the dentist/prosthodontist for a fitting. Assuming patient and dentist approval, the restorations are returned to the lab for completion.
  • Step 4: A technician boils the dentures to remove their wax portions. They then place the appliance in a flask to pour plaster. Subsequently, the flask is placed in hot water to melt the dentures.
  • Step 5: The lab worker makes holes in the artificial teeth so new material can attach. A liquid separator is also added to the plaster layer to prevent the acrylic from sticking. The same acrylic is then injected into the flask to replace the wax.
  • Step 6: The worker removes the plaster to reveal the prosthetics. Later, they place the dentures in an ultrasonic bath to remove leftover plaster.
  • Step 7: After cutting away excess acrylic, the technical polishes the restorations
  • Step 8: The patient returns to the office for fitting and final adjustments.

Adjusting to Your New Dentures

An older woman happy with her new dentures

It’s normal to have minor discomfort when you first wear dentures. In fact, the odds are that you’ll feel sore and face difficulty speaking and eating. However, rest assured that these things are temporary. Any lingering pain will fade as you adjust. With time, the dentures will soon feel similar to natural teeth.

If you’d like, though, you can try to speed up the adjustment. Tips include:

  • Eat soft foods
  • Practice facial exercises
  • Experiment with adhesives

Should your discomfort persist, contact our office immediately. There’s a chance your dentures need readjustment in that situation.

Understanding the Cost of Dentures

Denture in Lakewood, CO with a dollar bill between its teeth

The cost of many different dental procedures can differ from case to case, and dentures are no exception. Dr. Artino will spend part of your initial consultation explaining the different factors that can end up affecting the final cost, and he will answer any questions you might have regarding the price. We hope that you walk away from our office with a clear idea of what you can expect when the time comes to pay for your new teeth.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Dentures

Gloved hand holding an upper denture in Lakewood, CO

Some of the most influential factors that will impact the amount you pay for dentures include:

  • The need for tooth extractions, gum disease therapy, and other forms of preparatory work
  • The number of teeth that are missing (or are expected to be removed in the near future)
  • The kind of material the denture is made of, such as porcelain or acrylic

These are just a few examples; Dr. Artino can go over additional factors with you. Do bear in mind that cheaper does not automatically equal better for dentures. When false teeth are made out of cheap materials, they’re generally more likely to break and will probably need to be replaced much sooner. It’s better to invest in a quality denture now than to repeatedly pay for cheap dentures that won’t last as long.

Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?

Illustration of dental implants and denture in Lakewood, CO

Dental implants and the surgery required to place them in the mouth come with their own costs. As such, an implant denture will naturally be more expensive than a traditional one. However, it’s worth the extra money because implant dentures do not shift or slip, and they actively help stimulate the jawbone to keep it healthy. Also, you won’t need to pay for a replacement as often; the lifespan of implant dentures is usually measured in decades while traditional dentures normally have to be replaced after 7 years.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?

Man tapping electronic screen reading Dental Insurance

Most dental plans will include some level of coverage for dentures. On average, you can expect your insurance carrier to pay 50% for the restoration, although the exact amount is going to be different depending on what plan you have. Dental implants are usually not covered by insurance, but related procedures such as bone grafts might be. We’re in-network with Delta Dental and number of other insurance providers, and we’re always happy to go over your benefits with you and help you through the claims process in order to maximize your benefits.

Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable

Older man with dentures in Lakewood, CO resting chin on hand

Even without insurance, we can give you options for simplifying the process of paying for dental care. We work with CareCredit, a third-party financier that can make all kinds of dental procedures more budget-friendly by allowing you to pay over the course of several months instead of all at once. CareCredit plans have little if any interest, and there’s never any unexpected fees or surprise charges. There are multiple CareCredit plans to choose from depending on your financial situation.

Dentures Aftercare

Man laughing on a leather chair

Dentures are a life-changing tooth replacement option. However, even if you have few or no remaining natural teeth, this doesn’t mean that you can refrain from seeing the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Your dentist will continue to monitor any existing teeth you have and your gum tissue. They will also be on the lookout for any abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. When you have dentures, it is very difficult to pick up on these changes without the help of a dental professional. Early detection from your dentist is key to making a full recovery.

Removeable Dentures

Remove After Eating

Man eating a healthy meal

Every time you eat, you should remove and rinse off your dentures. That will help to prevent food debris and plaque from building up. When you rinse your dentures, don’t use hot water. This can warp the denture and cause it not to fit anymore.

Clean Your Denture

Man brushing his teeth

Remove your dentures before you clean them. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of unscented hand soap, mild dish soap, or denture cleaner, gently brush your dentures. It’s not a good idea to use regular toothpaste because dentures are unable to stand up to abrasive products. If you aren’t going to wear your dentures again right away, place them in a container of water or denture cleansing solution so they don’t dry out and lose their shape. Always rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.

Keep Your Dentures Safe

Dentures soaking in a glass

When you clean your dentures, you may want to place a towel underneath you in case they slip out of your hands. This will reduce the probability of your dentures becoming damaged. Also, remember to keep your dentures out of reach of small children and pets.

Remove When You Sleep

Man sleeping on his side

Before going to bed, take your dentures out. Wearing dentures restricts the circulation in your gums and leads to soft-tissue irritation. Sleeping with dentures has also been associated with a higher risk of pneumonia and tongue plaque. Overnight, keep your dentures in a denture-soaking solution to prevent them from drying out.

Notice Changes

Man with jaw pain

Keep an eye out for changes in your mouth so you can address them with your dentist. This includes mouth sores, gum irritation, and signs of infection. If your dentures become damaged, you shouldn’t attempt to repair them on your own. You could end up accidentally damaging them further. Give us a call instead. If your dentures are showing any signs of not fitting properly, like shifting or clicking, give us a call.

All-on-4 Dentures

Digital illustration of all-on-4 dentures

Caring for dentures works a little bit differently. You should brush your dentures twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste. Stay away from toothpaste that contains baking soda or stain-removing agents. Floss your replacement teeth every day and consider investing in a water flosser to keep your implants clean. Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash every day to prevent the growth of tartar.

Denture FAQs

Smiling woman with dentures in Lakewood

Dentures are a classic way to restore your smile and biting force. If you’d like to learn more about them, we encourage you to look over a few common questions about this traditional tooth replacement option that we’ve gathered for your convenience. If you don’t see the answers you’re looking for in the denture FAQs in Lakewood below, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule your consultation today!

I Am Interested in Dentures—Where Do I Start?

If you’re ready to start your journey towards a complete smile, your first step is to come see us for a consultation. During this initial appointment, Dr. Vinnie will have a conversation with you about your tooth replacement goals and address any of your concerns or questions. Then he’ll closely inspect your mouth, gums, and jaw as well as review your medical history.

If dentures are a good choice for you, he’ll explain all your options and his recommendations. If your oral health needs to be improved before you can be considered a good candidate for dentures, he’ll work with you to create a custom treatment plan to get you ready for your brand-new smile.  

Do I Clean My Dentures Like Natural Teeth?

Just like natural teeth, plaque and bacteria will build up on your dentures throughout the day. It’s important that these particles are thoroughly cleaned away every day to protect your smile from issues like gum disease and oral infections. However, it’s essential that you use the proper products while doing so! Your regular toothbrush and toothpaste are too abrasive to be used on your dentures—they can easily scratch away at their finish and damage them. Instead, be sure to only clean your dentures with ADA approved denture brushes and cleaners to keep your new pearly whites sparkling, healthy, and strong.

How Long Do Dentures Last?

At Lakewood Complete Dentistry, we craft our dentures out of high-quality materials for beautiful, durable, and long-lasting results. While dentures typically last between 5 and 10 years, you can make the most out of their lifespan by handling them carefully. However, you should always replace your dentures when they begin to lose their fit.

However, it’s a completely different story if you’ve rebuilt your smile with implant-retained dentures. Dental implants fuse with your jawbone to form a rock-solid foundation. They will never lose their fit or come loose as long as you practice great oral hygiene! You can easily expect your implant-retained dentures to last a lifetime with the proper care.

Does Dental Insurance Cover the Cost of Dentures?

Every dental insurance policy is slightly different, so you’ll need to call your insurance provider or read through your policy paperwork to determine what is and isn’t covered. If you like, you can bring your insurance policy paperwork with you to your consultation and we’ll be happy to review it with you. Our talented and friendly team has years of experience helping patients maximize their benefits to minimize their out of pocket expenses.

Generally, dental insurance will cover at least a portion of the cost of your dentures. If it doesn’t, or if you don’t have dental insurance, we also offer financing through CareCredit. They offer several different plans that can help break up the cost of your treatment into easy monthly payments. During your consultation, we’ll go over all the ways to make achieving your new smile as affordable as possible!

What is the Average Age for Dentures?

While tooth loss isn’t inevitable, it does happen more often to older folks. As such, the average age of denture wearers is around 45 or so.

Currently, modern research backs this conclusion. The National Center for Health Statistics believes 66% of adults aged 40-64 lack at least one tooth. Similarly, the American Dental Association notes that 57% of those ages 65-74 wear a denture of some sort.

Of course, people of all ages can be good denture candidates. It isn’t just seniors who get the prosthetics. To see if you qualify, just speak with Dr. Artino at a consultation.

Is It Hard to Talk with Dentures?

Truthfully, it’s tricky to speak with dentures at first. You’ll need to adjust as you transition from talking with natural teeth. Plus, the length of this process varies by patient. You can trust, though, that you’ll get the hang of it with practice.

Thankfully, there are a few ways to speed up the adjustment. One option is to read aloud to yourself and repeat hard-to-pronounce words. You could also speak slowly – fast speech will sound muffled if you aren’t used to dentures. Since dentures can shift during speech, it’s also a good idea to bite down and swallow before you talk. Denture adhesive would also keep the restorations in place.

Will Dentures Change the Shape of My Face?

Often enough, dentures do change the shape of your face. Luckily, however, this change is usually for the better!

You see, facial muscles start sagging when you lose teeth. Without all your pearly whites, your jawbone lacks the stimulus to maintain itself. This process can then lead to facial collapse – a condition where your face has a sunken look.

All that said, dentures provide support for facial muscles. The result would be an improvement to your looks. Still, remember that this only applies to well-fitted dentures. Ill-fitting ones may not give the right support. Should your dentures not fit well, get them refitted or replaced at once.

Do Upper Dentures Always Cover the Palate?

Honestly, no – upper dentures don’t always cover the palate. Some of them are “palate-less” and leave the roof of your mouth exposed.

Taste issues led to the design of this latter denture. As it turns out, one’s ability to taste food is reduced when the soft palate is covered. To compensate, some dentures for the upper arch are made palate-less. These kinds can have the standard horseshoe shape or be implant-retained.

To learn whether palate-less dentures are an option, talk to our dental team. They’ll show you our offerings and all our upper arch options.