Dentures – Springfield, MO

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dentures

There are three major factors that will influence the cost of your dentures:

• Any preparatory work you will need, such as gum disease therapy or tooth extractions.
• The number of teeth you need to replace.
• The materials used to craft your denture (typically porcelain or acrylic).

When shopping around for replacement teeth, it’s important to remember that cheaper is not always better. Low-quality dentures tend to break easily or may need to be replaced more often than expected. When it comes to dental restorations, quality is key! 

Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?

Yes, implant dentures are typically more expensive than traditional dentures. However, implant dentures also provide a number of advantages over the alternatives. For example, because dental implants fuse directly with the jawbone, implant dentures restore nearly full chewing power and never slip or shift. They also appear more lifelike than traditional dentures and can boost your confidence. Finally, implant dentures can last for decades with proper care. If you choose traditional dentures, you can expect to replacement them every 5 to 10 years. So, while implant dentures may cost more upfront, they are actually the smarter investment in the long run.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?

Most dental insurance plans consider dentures a major procedure and cover around 50% of the cost. However, every insurance plan is slightly different. Before deciding to move forward with getting dentures in Springfield, be sure to check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to review your insurance paperwork. We have years of experience helping patients maximize their insurance benefits when restoring their smiles!

Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable

There are other options besides dental insurance for making dentures affordable. For instance, qualified patients can access convenient dental financing through CareCredit. A trusted partner, CareCredit’s payment plans allow patients to break down the cost of dentures and other dental care into manageable monthly payments. Most CareCredit plans come with low or no interest, which makes this payment method a great option to avoid strain on your budget while replacing your teeth.

A complete smile and restored dental function is within reach! Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eric Tolliver, an experienced denture dentist in Springfield, to learn more about the cost of dentures and discuss different payment options.

Should I have all my teeth pulled to get dentures?

Your dentist will always do everything they can to save your natural teeth, even if you only have a few healthy ones remaining. Unfortunately, even with the latest advancements in dentistry, there are times your dentist can’t rehabilitate a tooth. As a result, you may need to have one or more extracted, but we’ll explain if it’s necessary at your consultation. Your dentist may suggest they are removed if they are severely damaged by decay, infection, or trauma. In some cases, it can be more cost-effective to remove teeth instead of paying for several restorations. There isn’t any limit to the number of teeth that can be extracted in a single appointment. If your denture dentist in Springfield determines it’s best for you to have a tooth or two pulled, we’ll explain what you can expect during your treatment plan.

Can I sleep with my dentures?

The thought of being caught without your teeth might make your palms sweat, but you don’t want to sleep in your dentures after the first 24 hours. You’ll need to wear them for one night after receiving them, but afterward, they should be removed before going to bed. Your dentures place pressure on your gums, which reduces blood circulation. Your tissue needs time to rest and regenerate to support your new teeth the following day. It also allows you to clean your mouth and soak your dentures to kill harmful bacteria that can lead to odors, infections, or damage. Wearing your dentures for too long can lead to oral and general health issues, including pneumonia. Your dentures will also wear out quicker, causing them to need to be replaced more often.

Do upper dentures always cover the palate?

You might have heard dentures diminish the taste of food, but that only occurs when the palate covers the roof of the mouth. Many upper dentures are designed to be palate-less. They have a horseshoe shape that looks like a lower denture. This type is also used along with dental implants. Your dentist will explain all your options to choose the right dentist for your needs and preferences.

Can I still eat steak with dentures?

You can enjoy many of your favorite foods again, including steak. However, you should cut tough meats into small pieces to make them easier to chew. It’s also best to tenderize your meat or choose tenderloin because they don’t require as much chewing. If you’re having difficulty keeping your dentures in place, consider adding an adhesive. Although it is possible to have steak, limit how often you enjoy chewy meats to put less wear and tear on your new smile.