Dentures – Springfield, MO

What Are Dentures Made Of?

Dentures are typically made up of two main components: the gum-colored base and the artificial replacement teeth. Here's what you can expect from each part:

• The Base – This is the foundation for your new teeth, designed to fit your exact mouth impressions and closely resemble your natural gum tissue. It can be made from nylon, acrylic, metal, resin, or porcelain. Most full dentures use acrylic for its ability to match the appearance of natural gums, while partial dentures often incorporate metal clips to securely attach to nearby healthy teeth.
• Artificial Teeth – The replacement teeth attached to the denture base are usually crafted from resin or porcelain. Both materials are highly durable, but porcelain is often preferred for its remarkable resemblance to natural teeth in both look and feel. Porcelain is primarily used for full dentures, as it can be abrasive to any remaining natural teeth.

The Denture Creation Process

Since each denture is custom-made for the patient, Dr. Olson follows a multi-step process to create it. The key steps are as follows:

• Step 1 – Dr. Olson will take a dental impression, which will be used to create a plaster model that matches the final denture’s size and shape.
• Step 2 – Our office will send the plaster model to a lab, where technicians will use it to create a wax gumline.
• Step 3 – The lab will set artificial teeth into the wax base, forming a prototype denture that will be used to craft the final version.
• Step 4 – The wax denture will be sent to the dentist for a fitting. After testing, it will return to the lab for the final restorations.
• Step 5 – The wax will be removed by boiling the denture, and the denture will be placed in a flask filled with plaster and hot water.
• Step 6 – A separator will be applied to the plaster to prevent the acrylic from sticking. Acrylic will then be injected into the flask to replace the wax.
• Step 7 – The plaster will be removed to reveal the denture, which will be placed in a bath to remove any remaining residue.
• Step 8 – Any excess acrylic will be trimmed from the denture, which will then be polished.
• Step 9 – The patient will have the denture fitted, and the dentist will make necessary adjustments to ensure it functions smoothly.

Adjusting to Your New Dentures

It's normal to experience some discomfort or soreness when you first receive your dentures. This happens because your mouth, gums, and any remaining teeth need time to adjust to the new prosthetics. To help your dentures feel more natural as quickly as possible, try sticking to softer foods to practice chewing, repeat difficult sounds and words, and consider using adhesive if you need extra support. If you have any concerns, please reach out to our team, and we'll be happy to assist you.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dentures

When determining the cost of dentures in Springfield, there are several factors that need to be considered:

• The need for preliminary treatments, like tooth extractions or gum disease therapy
• The materials that are used, like acrylic or porcelain
• The extent of your tooth loss (ex: replacing a few missing teeth vs. an entire arch)

When researching the price, keep in mind that cheaper isn’t always better. Dentures crafted from lower-grade materials may be more cost-effective upfront, but they will likely need to be replaced more often and won’t function nearly as well. So, aim for quality.

Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?

In short, yes. Since they require oral surgery and the placement of several dental implants, they typically are more expensive. With that said, they also provide patients with a multitude of noteworthy benefits. To start, they often last for 15+ years with proper care, making them more permanent. Plus, their stability makes them more lifelike, allows you to eat a more varied diet, and prevents embarrassing slips.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?

Have dental insurance? Then there is a good chance that a portion of the cost of dentures will be covered. In fact, since it’s considered a “major” procedure, insurance providers typically contribute around 50% of the cost. Of course, the fine print on dental plans varies, which is why it’s always a good idea to double-check your benefits beforehand. Since we file with most major insurance providers, we’d be happy to help you with this step of the process!

Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable

Don’t have dental insurance? Don’t worry – that’s where CareCredit comes in. This trusted third-party financier has helped countless patients make their care more affordable. By signing up, you’ll be able to pick a payment plan that works best for your budget. Even better, qualified patients can enjoy little-to-no interest attached! As a result, getting treatment from our denture dentist in Springfield is never unattainable.

Should I Have All My Teeth Pulled to Get Dentures?

Tooth extractions are typically only recommended when absolutely necessary, such as when a tooth has extensive decay, severe infection, or trauma that has left it beyond repair. It’s always better to fix a damaged tooth than to replace it with dentures.

However, if all the teeth are decayed or severely affected by gum disease, it may be more affordable to get dentures than to restore each tooth. While multiple teeth can be extracted in a single visit, some extractions are more complex than others. Before suggesting dentures, your dentist will carefully examine all possible treatment options to preserve your natural teeth wherever possible.

Why Do My Dentures Smell?

Dentures can develop an odor due to bacteria trapped in their tiny crevices, especially if they don’t fit well, allowing food particles to accumulate underneath. Ill-fitting dentures can also irritate the gums, leading to sores and infections that may contribute to bad breath. Additionally, many denture wearers experience dry mouth, which reduces saliva production and creates an environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive.

To prevent bad breath, clean your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a denture cleaner, and brush your gums, tongue, cheeks, and palate. Soaking your dentures in a disinfecting solution overnight helps keep them moist and reduces bacteria buildup. Rinsing your dentures after meals is also essential to remove trapped food particles and keep them fresh.

Will Dentures Change the Shape of My Face?

Yes, dentures can change the shape of your face! When teeth are lost, facial muscles lose support, which can lead to sagging and a sunken appearance. Properly fitting dentures provide structure to these muscles, helping to restore a more natural, youthful appearance by supporting the cheeks and lips.

However, ill-fitting dentures may fail to give the necessary support, so it’s crucial to have dentures designed to fit your mouth precisely. If you notice your dentures no longer fit well, visit your dentist to have them refitted or replaced. Properly fitting dentures not only improve facial aesthetics but also contribute to your comfort and overall oral health.

Can I Use Regular Toothpaste to Clean My Dentures?

No, you should not use regular toothpaste to clean your dentures. Toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients that can create microscopic scratches on the surface of dentures, eventually leading to significant damage. These tiny scratches can also trap bacteria, affecting the look and hygiene of your dentures.

Similarly, avoid using a hard-bristled brush, which can be too harsh. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush for gentle cleaning. To safely clean dentures, use hand soap, mild dishwashing liquid, or specialized denture cleaners. Clean your dentures thoroughly after each meal to keep them free from food particles and bacteria. Proper care helps maintain the appearance and lifespan of your dentures.