When tooth decay, gingivitis (gum disease) or facial injuries lead to multiple lost teeth, dentures might be the best way to restore a person’s smile. From replacing only a few teeth to restoring much of the mouth, there are many denture solutions that can be tailored to suit different needs.
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How Much Do Dentures Cost?
Many people are surprised to find that dentures are more affordable than they anticipated, especially after taking insurance or other financial assistance into account.
The total cost of a denture treatment will vary, depending on what types of dentures are needed. The following ranges are for the upper or lower teeth only, and doing both would double these estimated costs:
- Complete Dentures range from $1,300 to $3,000
- Temporary (Immediate) Dentures range from $1,500 to $3,200
- Implant-Retained Dentures range from $1,500 to $4,000
- Snap-In Dentures range from $1,500 to $4,000
- Partial Removable Dentures range from $650 to $2,500
Of course, cost is only one factor when considering which type of dentures is most suitable for a given situation. A prosthodontist can help patients determine which dentures are best for them, and then provide a more definitive estimate on the total cost.
Ways to Afford Dentures
The above numbers reflect the total cost of denture treatment. Many patients end up paying significantly less, and almost no one pays the entire price upfront unless they choose to do so. There are several ways to make dentures quite affordable.
Dental Insurance Might Pay Half
Most dental insurance plans pay around 50 percent of the cost on average, effectively cutting out-of-pocket costs by half for those who have coverage. Not everyone has dental insurance, but many people can gain access to it through employer-provided coverage or private dental plans. Even if a person doesn’t normally carry dental insurance, reducing the cost of dentures by half certainly justifies signing up for a plan.
With dental insurance, the above rates can start from a few hundred dollars and depending on the type of denture go up as much as a few thousand of dollars.
(Tip: Some dental insurance plans limit how much assistance they’ll provide in the first year of coverage. It may be necessary to carry coverage for two years in order to get the maximum benefit.)
Financing Options For Dentures
Prosthodontists who regularly help patients with dentures understand that the cost can be challenging to pay all at once, even if it is affordable when spread across multiple payments. For this reason, many dental practices that offer dentures also offer denture financing. There are many care plan options available through third party financing groups that can help you to afford your next pair of dentures. Just to remember to ask for these options next time you visit our office. And one of our expert treatment coordinators will assist you to find the financing options that best suits your needs.
Dental Discount/Membership Plans Provide Savings
Dental discount and membership plans can greatly reduce some of the costs associated with the cost of your dentures. Just remember a dental discount plan is not insurance. Instead, you get a discount or a membership card that lets you take advantage of many savings on a variety of treatments and services for as low as a few hundred dollars annually. Here are some of the examples of savings you can receive from these discount plans. Usually these savings include offers such as a percentage off of some treatments, free or very low cost for cleanings and exams. And in many cases a wholesome discount off more elective treatments. To learn more about these savings you should contact your dentist and ask to see what offers are available.
The Steps for Getting Dentures
While routinely done, dentures are one of the more extensive dental treatments. You’ll go to the prosthodontist several times throughout the process. The steps typically go as follows:
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Who is the Best Candidate for Dentures?
Anyone who has lost a significant number of teeth may be a good candidate for dentures. The jawbone and gum tissue remaining must be in good condition to support the false teeth.
Although people 65 and older are the most common age group to have dentures, younger age groups may get dentures due to general tooth loss or injury.
What Types of Dentures Are There?
A prosthodontist might recommend one of several different denture types. Complete, temporary, implant-retained, snap-in and partial removable are some of the most commonly used options.
How to Maintain Dentures
Dentures have to be cared for, much like teeth although the process is somewhat different. To prevent plaque buildup:
- Brush with a soft denture brush at night.
- Hold over a sink with a washcloth underneath, in case they drop.
- Soak overnight in a commercial denture cleaner.
- Brush in the morning, again with a washcloth.
Dentures may also be soaked overnight in a dilute solution of vinegar and water, in order to remove/prevent calculus. Full-strength vinegar can damage the surface of dentures and shouldn’t be used. Acetic acid also works, provided it’s diluted. To learn more about how to clean and maintain your dentures please visit our full article about the best way to clean dentures.
When to Use Denture Adhesive
Denture adhesive may be used to soothe minor irritation from dentures. Improperly fitting dentures should be checked by a prosthodontist, as adhesive won’t actually fix dentures.
Schedule a Denture Consultation
To learn more about dentures, cost and solutions, contact us to schedule a consultation. One of our experienced prosthodontists will review the process with you, and find a solution that meets your goals.