It’s important to have a clear idea of how much your dentures will cost before you commit to getting them to replace your missing teeth. However, you need to remember that not all dentures cost exactly the same; the price tag can vary depending on a number of variables. Below is a closer look at 5 of the factors that can influence the amount that you’ll ultimately need to pay for your prosthesis.
1. The Type of Denture
Depending on how many teeth you’ve lost, you can either get a partial denture or a full denture. A partial denture can fill in multiple gaps in your smile while a full denture is used when an entire arch of teeth is missing. Since full dentures replace a greater number of teeth, they tend to cost more than partial dentures.
2. The Materials Used
The artificial teeth on dentures are often made out of either acrylic resin or porcelain. Acrylic resin is the cheaper option, but it also isn’t as durable as porcelain. Additionally, the base of a denture is normally comprised of acrylic resin, but it might also include an underlying metal mesh, which adds to the overall cost. Your dentist can go over the exact materials that will be used to make your dentures and explain the impact they’ll have on the final price.
3. The Possible Use of Dental Implants
Depending on your oral health and the state of your jawbone, you may be eligible for dental implants that can secure your dentures in place. Dental implants need to be surgically placed in your jaw; needless to say, this can add to the amount you need to pay. However, many patients find that the higher cost of implant dentures is balanced out by their benefits, such as improved chewing power and stability.
4. Any Additional Costs
The dentures themselves might not be the only thing you need to pay for. For example, if the teeth that need to be replaced are still in your mouth, you will have to account for the cost of a tooth extraction. Your dentist will make sure that you’re fully aware of any additional treatments that might be required and give you a reliable cost estimate.
5. Dental Insurance
Many dental insurance plans will offer some level of coverage for dentures. You can often expect your insurance company to pay around 50% of the cost of the prosthesis, but this depends on the specifics of your plan as well as factors such as whether you still need to pay your deductible for the year.
About the Author
Dr. Dory Stutman has been in private practice since 1991, and he makes a point of attending more than 100 hours of advanced dentistry seminars every year. His Massapequa Park practice, South Shore Dental Care, provides personalized, lifelike dentures for patients with missing teeth. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stutman, visit his website or call (516) 798-3808.