4 Things To Know About Full Denture Treatment

Full sets of dentures can be used to completely replace all of a person's adult teeth. Full dentures may be indicated when a person has significant tooth loss and tooth decay. Dentures can be used as an alternative to dental implants, with the advantage of not requiring surgery, like more invasive tooth replacement methods. Here are four things you should know about full denture treatment:

1. Immediate dentures can allow you to chew and smile during the healing process

Many people receive a set of full dentures following dental extraction procedures. Conventional dentures are typically made several weeks after a person's dental extraction procedure. This allows the bones and gums to settle and heal after tooth removal. However, many people choose to get immediate dentures in the meantime. Immediate dentures are created ahead of time, allowing patients to continue chewing and smiling as normal until they can receive a set of conventional dentures. If you're concerned about going in public following complete dental extraction, immediate dentures can give you the confidence you need.

2. Dentures must typically be adjusted for comfort

When your dentist makes a set of full dentures, they will take an impression of your gums to ensure a comfortable fit. Ill-fitting dentures can rub against your cheeks and gums, causing pain. You may find that the fit of your dentures changes over time as your gums shrink or your jaw bone erodes. If your dentures are no longer comfortable, you can make an appointment with your dentist to have them adjusted.

3. Full dentures can be examined at biannual dental appointments

Tooth loss does not exempt you from regular dental appointments. People with dentures should have their dentures examined by their dentists periodically to ensure that their dental appliances are still functional and undamaged. Bring your dentures to your biannual dental appointments so your dentist can check their fit and clean them professionally.

4. Full dentures are often covered by dental insurance

The cost of dentures depends on many factors, including the type of material you'd like your dentures to be made of. Fortunately, many dental insurance plans cover the cost of full denture treatment. You may be eligible to have a portion or the entirety of your denture bill paid by your insurance company. Determining the status of your dental insurance coverage ahead of time can help you ensure that you don't pay more money out of pocket than necessary.