Who is a Candidate for Dentures?
Did you know that nearly 25% of adults over 65 are missing all of their teeth? Dentures are a common and effective solution for tooth loss. They are so natural-looking and dependable that you might not even realize when someone is wearing them.
- Need to replace several or all of your teeth
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products
- Have a healthy jawbone (we can help you assess this)
- Do not suffer from dry mouth
- Are committed to proper denture care at home
- Continue to visit your dentist regularly for exams, just like with natural teeth
If you’re considering dentures, you may be a good candidate if you:
How to Care for Your Dentures
Taking care of your dentures is crucial to maintaining your oral health. Even with perfect prosthetics, regular dental visits are necessary to check the fit of your dentures and examine the health of your gums, tongue, jaw, and mouth.
- Remove your dentures overnight to allow your mouth to rest
- Soak dentures in warm water with or without a denture cleanser
- Avoid soaking dentures with metal clasps in anything but warm water
- Keep dentures in water when not in use to prevent drying and warping
- Never soak dentures in hot water
- Clean and massage your gums with your dentures removed
- If your toothbrush irritates your gums, soften the bristles under warm water or use a clean, damp cloth to massage your gums
- Brush your natural teeth as usual if you have partial dentures
To care for your dentures at home:
Cost of Dentures in Baton Rouge
The cost of dentures in Baton Rouge varies widely based on individual needs.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Full or partial dentures typically cost between $900 and $3,500+
- Full-mouth dentures can range from $1,800 to $3,500 and up
- Implant-supported dentures generally cost around $30,000 as a ballpark estimate
Factors influencing the cost of dentures include:
- The type of dentures you need
- Any necessary dental extractions or preparations
- Required X-rays
- Whether supportive implants are included
Each case is unique, so it’s essential to have a consultation and oral exam with Dr. Collins to receive a personalized quote and explore your treatment options.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, dental bridges and dental implants are alternatives to dentures. Dental bridges are ideal for replacing one to three missing teeth, while dental implants can replace any number of missing teeth and offer a more permanent solution. However, implants generally require a higher initial investment and specific health conditions to qualify.
With proper care and regular maintenance, dentures typically last between 5 to 10 years. Over time, normal wear and changes in your mouth may necessitate adjustments or even a new set of dentures to ensure a comfortable fit.
While you can sleep with your dentures in, it’s recommended to remove them at night. Taking your dentures out allows your gums and jaw to rest and gives you the opportunity to clean your mouth, gums, and any remaining natural teeth. Soaking your dentures overnight also helps keep them in good condition.
Properly fitting dentures should feel secure and comfortable. Upper dentures should create a suction seal with your gums, while lower dentures should stay in place without much movement. Partial dentures should align smoothly with your natural teeth, and implant-supported dentures should snap securely into place. If you’re unsure about the fit, schedule an appointment with us to check and adjust your dentures as needed.
Once you’re accustomed to your dentures, you should be able to enjoy most foods. However, it’s best to limit hard, sticky, or tough foods like caramel, raw vegetables, or tough meats, as they can cause discomfort or damage your dentures. Additionally, foods with small particles like popcorn or seeded crackers may irritate your gums, so it’s wise to consume them sparingly.
