implant dentures Archives - 5 Star Dental Group

What If I Can’t Afford Dental Implants?

Posted on August 17, 2024 by AllSmiles.

What are my options if I can’t afford dental implants? I’m 42 and am embarrassed to wear dentures. I know it makes sense to have dentures rather than a toothless smile. I wonder if there are alternatives that I may not know about. Thanks. Tish

Tish,

Tooth replacement options include partial dentures, removable complete dentures, a dental bridge, and dental implants. Your options depend on your oral health and the number of teeth you have lost.

A palateless denture

Dental implants are a significant investment, but there are options to make them more accessible. While it’s unlikely to find dentists willing to provide implants in exchange for advertising, there are several strategies to consider:

Dental School Clinics: Many dental schools offer discounted treatment to patients who participate in their implant training programs. Treatment from a dental school can be cost-effective, though it may involve longer treatment times and potential discomfort associated with student practitioners.
Affordable Dental Implant Options: Snap-on dentures supported by two standard dental implants or mini implants can be less expensive and less invasive than traditional implant procedures.
Phased Approach: Consider getting a removable denture now and saving for implant-supported dentures in the future. This phased approach can help you spread out the costs over time.
Charity Dental Clinics: While dental clinics often focus on providing primary care, they may offer some assistance with dentures or partial dentures.

Explore these options and consult a dentist to determine the most suitable approach for your needs and budget. While there may not be a straightforward solution, these strategies can help make implant dentures more affordable in the future.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.

Where Can I Find a Soft Denture That Doesn’t Hurt My Palate?

Posted on July 24, 2024 by AllSmiles.

Is there a soft denture with a flexible palate? The dentures I’ve had all have a hard palate that hurts the roof of my mouth. I’m looking for something more flexible and softer. – Thanks. Lydia from Yonkers, NY

Lydia,

Removable dentures can be uncomfortable. As you wear them over the years, it can be challenging to wear them.

What Is a Soft Denture?

When dentists mention “soft dentures,” they usually mean dentures with a soft lining. A soft lining can be helpful for individuals with bony ridges that traditional dentures irritate. Soft-lined dentures offer increased comfort but are more expensive, have a shorter lifespan, and require more diligent cleaning.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a completely soft, pliable denture option available. Complete dentures require a firm base for proper fit, function, and durability.

How Can You Improve Denture Comfort?

A palateless denture is horseshoe shaped

Dental implants provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth, eliminating the need for a denture base covering the roof of your mouth. While more costly upfront, a palateless denture with implants offers a more natural feel, improved chewing ability, and prevents facial sagging associated with traditional dentures.

Talk to your dentist about your concerns or schedule a consultation with a prosthodontist about improving denture comfort and fit.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post. Read how they strive to provide patients with some of the best dental care in San Antonio.

Are Implant Dentures Worth It?

Posted on January 31, 2023 by AllSmiles.

In late November last year, I received new dentures. The cost made me almost sure that they would be beautiful. And after my dentist assured me they would exceed my expectations, I had no doubts. But reality has hit, and I am almost in tears. The dentures are extremely uncomfortable, and they look fake. When I look in the mirror and smile, I’m embarrassed. My feelings and my pocketbook are hurt. At this point, there is no way that I can afford to replace my teeth with implants, but I am so very unhappy that I must do something about it. I’ve been doing some research, and I read about using implants to support dentures. Is this option worth considering? – Diana L., Florida

Diana –Thank you for contacting 5 Star Dental Group in San Antonio.

You have two significant concerns with your dentures. They are uncomfortable, and they don’t look natural. An artistic prosthodontist can help. It is possible to get natural-looking dentures that fit your facial features and personality. A prosthodontist will listen to your preferences and design dentures that match them. Even if you do not get dental implants, you will be pleased with custom dentures.

Are Implant Dentures Worth It?

Implant dentures are worth it if you want them to feel more like your natural teeth. Supporting a denture with two to four implants is less expensive than individual implants. A dentist can place two to eight dentures in your jawbone with overdentures. After a healing period, a prosthodontist (tooth replacement specialist) can attach the denture to the implants.

Implant overdentures improve function in these ways:

Eating – Your chewing efficiency will improve, and you can taste your food better with a palateless denture.
Speaking – Stable dentures will not move while you talk so you can socialize confidently.
Facial appearance – The implants stimulate your jawbone like natural teeth, prevent the bone from shrinking, and cause premature facial sagging.

Even if you choose removable dentures, your prosthodontist will ensure they are comfortable and beautiful.

Request an implant dentures consultation to discuss your options.

San Antonio dentists Dr. Gilberto Tostado and Dr. Karina Acuña sponsor this post.