The other option is to use
dentures. There is a
substantial difference in dentures that are available. Generally, if
you have had difficulty with dentures in the past your best chances are with
a Prosthodontist. His understanding
of the forces that affect a denture as well as the advanced training give
you the best prospects. Many prosthodontists now make upper dentures
with a metal palate in the denture. This provides substantial strength
and much more room for the tongue. It is also much more comfortable.
If you later decide to have implants placed, the metal support makes
the denture much stronger and less likely to break.
If you have teeth present you also may have several options:
If there are teeth on both sides of the missing teeth, and if they are strong
enough, a fixed bridge can be designed that attaches to the teeth and is
not removable. It requires the teeth on either side to be crowned and
this requires cutting the enamel off of the teeth and then replacing it with
porcelain and/or metal teeth. The cost is sometimes less than implants.
The cost for a bridge is usually between $700-1800 /tooth. For
example, if you lost one tooth, the bridge would involve that tooth plus
the teeth on either side of the space for a total of 3 teeth. The bridge
would cost between $2100-5100.
If there are not enough remaining teeth to support a fixed bridge, a removable
partial denture can be made to replace the missing teeth. There are
a wide number of types of partial dentures. The price can range from
$300-2500 for a plastic partial. This is usually considered a temporary
partial. A partial with a metal substructure which is designed to gain
support and stability from the teeth will range between $800-3500. The
prices usually vary depending on the skill and training of the dentist.
If you have not yet lost your teeth, but many of your teeth are broken down,
it is often possible to utilize the broken teeth as though they were dental
implants. Dentures could then be made that fit over these teeth.
These are called
overdentures.
The advantage of saving these teeth is that they can help prevent
the jaw bone from dissolving away while providing a more solid foundation
for the dentures. Small ball shaped attachments can be placed in these
teeth and the denture can be snapped into place. This option is usually
close to 1/2 the cost of dental implants. Fluoride must be used in
the overdenture to keep the teeth from decaying.
Click here if you would like to see
a before and after picture.
When considering your options it is best to consult with your
general dentist or a
prosthodontist before making any decision.
