Having missing teeth is embarrassing, but there are many solutions to replace missing teeth. Traditional dentures are still one of the most common methods, especially if you have lots of missing teeth. If you are considering getting traditional dentures, first ask yourself these three questions to see if it is really the right option for you.

What Type Of Traditional Denture Should You Get?

The first thing to consider is whether you want a partial or complete denture. As the name implies, complete dentures replace all your missing teeth. A partial denture can be used to replace one, two or several missing teeth. If you only have one or a few missing teeth, a partial denture is a great option. However, if you are missing most of your teeth and the dentist feels you'll need the rest pulled sometime in the near future, it may be a better option to just get a complete denture right away to save time and money.  

The next option to consider is if you want conventional or immediate dentures. Conventional dentures take more time, but as a result, they look, feel and fit better. They are crafted in a lab, and you'll need to wait until your gums heal from the extractions before wearing it. An immediate denture is also crafted in a lab, but it is done before your teeth are removed, and it can be placed before the gum heals. However, with no teeth to stimulate your jaw, your jaw will shrink, so you'll need to replace them more often. Many people choose immediate denture as a temporary solution while they wait for their gums and jaw to heal, so they don't have to go without teeth.

Are You Prepared For A Learning Curve And Major Changes?

Dentures come with a learning curve. Of course, the first step is to get used to having teeth again, but the learning doesn't end there. Dentures aren't stationary, so they move when you talk and eat. As a result, you'll have to re-learn how to talk and eat without causing the denture to slip, as well as regain your normal speech.

Dentures involve major changes too. Firstly, you clean them differently than normal teeth. Instead of brushing, you remove them and soak them in a special denture solution. Many people leave them in this solution during the night. You'll also notice changes in your diet. Because they are less stable than regular teeth, you won't be able to eat hard-to-chew foods, such as caramel and apples.

Why Don't You Consider An Implant-Supported Denture?

Another option to consider is implant-supported dentures. These dentures are not removable, and they are supported with dental implants or titanium rods. The rods go right into your jawbone. This stimulates the jaw to prevent it from shrinking and makes the denture durable, so you won't have the same learning curve or major changes as traditional dentures.

However, implant-supported dentures come with their own disadvantages, the first being their cost. Traditional dentures cost between $300 and $5,000, depending on the quality. A full set of implant-supported dentures, however, cost between $25,000 and $95,000, which is just not in the budget for many people. If the cost is your number one concern, traditional denture are probably your best bet.

Dentures can give you a beautiful smile at a low cost, but expect a long learning curve and changes to your diet. Implant-supported dentures are a great alternative, but their high price make it difficult to afford them. If you feel that dentures are the right solution for your missing teeth, contact your dentist today to schedule a consultation and get back your smile.