Dentures – East Longmeadow, MA

Eat, Speak and Smile Again

Have you lost all of the teeth in your upper or lower jaw? If so, dentures are absolutely essential so that you can maintain a healthy diet and talk with clarity – not to mention you’ll feel a lot more confident when going out in public. At EMA Dental, we can provide full and partial dentures in East Longmeadow so that you can completely fill in the empty space in your mouth and start enjoying life again. Schedule a consultation with us today so that we can get started on restoring your smile.

Full and Partial Dentures

woman holding face

Dentures are simply removable appliances used to replace an extensive number of teeth. There are two basic kinds: full dentures and partial dentures.

  • Full dentures replace every tooth in your upper or lower arch. They’re made of acrylic and are held onto the gums via suction or adhesive. Any remaining teeth will need to be extracted first; afterwards, you can wait for your gums to heal before receiving a traditional denture, or you can get an immediate denture right away.
  • Partial dentures are used when there’s still plenty of healthy, natural teeth left in your mouth. They can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth in different areas. They’re held in the mouth with a metal clasp.

Benefits of Dentures

two denture types

There are many reasons why dentures can allow a patient to lead a more fulfilling life:

  • A Varied Diet: Missing teeth can limit your nutritional options, but with practice, dentures will allow you to eat even tough foods like meat again. This goes a long way towards keeping your body healthy and fit.
  • Improved Self-Image: Modern dentures are designed to look as natural as possible. You won’t have to worry about feeling self-conscious when you speak or smile.
  • Longevity: You will need to get your dentures replaced eventually, but with the proper care, they can last up to a decade.

Taking Care of Dentures

man holding denture doing thumbs up

If you drop your dentures while you’re taking them out, they could break; for this reason, only remove your dentures over a full sink or a soft surface such as a towel.

Plaque can form on false teeth just as easily as it can on natural ones, to it’s important to clean them every day. Rinse them in warm water and use a cleanser designed to work on dentures (conventional toothpaste, bleach, vinegar and soap might actually damage them). Always brush your dentures gently to clean them.

Of course, you can’t neglect your oral health even with your natural teeth gone, so don’t forget to brush your gums and tongue as well. You can finish your oral hygiene session by rinsing with mouthwash.

Implant-Retained Dentures

complete implant

Traditional dentures might become ill-fitting and more likely to slip over time. This is because missing teeth can cause the jawbone to deteriorate and lose its shape. This can affect the structure of your face and cause you to look older.

With implant-retained dentures, your new teeth will be attached to metal posts that have been surgically inserted into the jaw; this helps stimulate the bone and lets you maintain a more youthful appearance. Furthermore, dentures that are anchored in place by implants are more stable, won’t slip, and improve chewing strength.

Understanding the Cost of Dentures

man smiling while holding glasses

Dentures generally stand out as the most budget-friendly option for tooth replacement. However, it’s normal to still have concerns about their affordability. Keep in mind that the cost of dentures varies from patient to patient. To get an accurate estimate, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with our team. Once you have the estimate, EMA Dental is committed to making your care financially accessible. We’ll guide you through the factors influencing denture costs and discuss available payment options.

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Factors that Affect the Cost of Dentures

patient talking to dentist

During the initial consultation, we’ll conduct an oral examination to assess various factors influencing the cost of your dentures. These factors include:

  • Prep Work – Before receiving dentures, preliminary procedures such as root canals or tooth extractions may be required, contributing to an increase in treatment costs.
  • Denture Base Material – The cost of dentures can be influenced by the choice of base material, with options ranging from more affordable to higher-end acrylic.
  • Replacement Teeth Material – The material used for replacement teeth, whether acrylic or porcelain, can affect the overall price of the denture.

It's important to note that opting for the cheapest dentures may not be the most ideal choice. For best results, it’s recommended to choose practical and high-quality prosthetics.

Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?

patient smiling while talking to dentist

While implant dentures may come with a higher initial cost compared to traditional ones, the additional expense is justified by their incredible benefits.

The most significant benefit of implant dentures lies in their unique placement method. They anchor themselves through dental implants, which seamlessly integrate with your jaw. This secure fusion ensures stability, preventing any slippage or displacement over time. For that reason, the result is a set of new teeth that not only look but also function like natural ones.

Plus, the long-term advantages of implant dentures are nothing to scoff at. With an average lifespan of 15-20 years, the implants require minimal repair and replacement costs. In contrast, traditional dentures typically last 5-7 years and necessitate several follow-up visits.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?

dental insurance form on table

Yes, dental insurance commonly includes coverage for dentures! Since denture treatment is considered a major procedure, most plans typically cover 50% of the associated costs.

Nevertheless, exceptions exist for every rule. It's important to acknowledge that your specific insurance policy might have limitations on its denture coverage. Before getting dentures, it’s important to verify the benefits of your plan before making a decision. Our office is available to assist you with any inquiries or clarification you may need.

Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable

patient and dentist smiling while looking at camera

Whether or not you have insurance, there are alternative ways to make dentures more affordable. Take, for instance, our options at EMA Dental. We work with reputable third-party financiers like LendingClub and CareCredit. Through this partnership, you have the option to pay for dentures using low-interest monthly installments. This flexible approach allows you to manage the cost gradually rather than in a single payment.

Dentures FAQs

Dentures in East Longmeadow have been a trusted solution for tooth loss for generations. Although they are more realistic than ever before, it’s normal to have some concerns before you’re ready to commit to them. Your dentist at EMA Dental will explain everything during your consultation. You can also contact our office to speak with a member of our team or take a look at the answers to the most frequently asked questions below.

Can I Sleep With My Dentures?

Your denture dentist in East Longmeadow will instruct you to wear your dentures for 24 hours after receiving them. After the first night, you should remove them before going to bed. No one wants to be caught without their teeth, but your oral and general health relies on their nightly removal. Not to mention, you’ll get the most from your dentures.

 

Dentures restrict blood circulation to your gums, which can lead to pain, inflammation, and sores if they aren’t given a break. Plaque and bacteria also accumulate on your dentures, which can lead to odors and damage your prosthetics over time. It’s better to remove and clean your dentures before placing them in an overnight soaking solution.

Do Upper Dentures Always Cover the Palate?

Traditional upper dentures often cover the roof of the mouth. It’s normal to have concerns about irritation or diminished taste, but they are temporary. However, you may benefit from a palate-less option. You can choose a denture that looks like one used for the lower arch with a horseshoe shape. Your implant dentist will help you choose the best style for your needs and preferences.

Is a Broken Denture a Dental Emergency?

You rely on your dentures and you can’t go without any teeth. A broken denture is a dental emergency. It is better to use an old denture if possible to avoid further damage or injuries to your mouth. Never use superglue or other products because they can contain toxic chemicals or cause allergic reactions. Instead, contact our office. We will get you in for the necessary repairs or replacements.

Are Dental Implants Cheaper Than Dentures?

Initially, dental implants can cost more than a traditional denture, but they are the most affordable overall. Dental implants have over a 95% success rate and can last for 30 years or longer. You’ll save money because you won’t have to budget for replacements every 5-7 years. Implant dentures also replace both the tooth roots and the crowns, creating priceless benefits that aren’t possible using a regular denture.