As people get older, or more commonly if they do not care for their teeth properly, they may find that over time they start to lose teeth. It this is left to continue, they may find that they lose enough teeth for it to cause them problems. However there are a few possible solutions to this problem with one of the most common being false teeth dentures.
What are False Teeth Dentures?
False teeth dentures are essentially prosthetic devices that fit in the mouth to replace lost teeth. The false teeth are typically set on removable plastic plates which are inserted and supported by the hard and soft tissues of the mouth. There are different types of dentures available depending on the number of teeth lost.
Partial False Teeth Dentures
Partial false teeth dentures are used when only a few teeth have been lost from the upper or lower jaw. These can be fitted on a plate which can be inserted and removed as required. However, fixed partial dentures are also a possibility and these are typically fitted onto the remaining teeth and remain permanently in place. Typically fixed partials are more expensive to purchase than removable partials, although as they are fixed in place they can be easier to use.
Complete False Teeth Dentures
If all the teeth from the upper or lower jaw are lost, this will result in the need for complete false teeth dentures. These can be made to replace the upper or lower teeth or both if required. Complete dentures are generally removable with the plates the teeth are set on being shaped to the mouth of the person wearing them. It is important that these fit well to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Loose dentures can cause problems such as sores and infections and it is therefore essential that they are manufactured and fitted properly by a prosthodontist or cosmetic dentist. As people grow older the shape of their mouth can change and this will affect dentures. It is therefore sensible to visit the dentist every so often to have dentures checked to ensure they remain fitting well.
What are False Teeth Dentures Made of?
In times gone by the false teeth used in dentures were typically made of porcelain. However the advance of plastic technology in recent years means that this is the most common material used to make dentures these days, although ceramic dentures are also available. These materials can be fashioned into false teeth that look almost identical to the real thing and can therefore be a good choice.
Cost of False Teeth Dentures
False teeth dentures will vary in cost depending on whether a partial or complete set is required and also the quality of the material. At the lower end of the scale a complete basic set for upper and lower jaw can cost in the region of $600 to $1,000 to have manufactured. However for a premium quality set of complete upper and lower dentures the price can run to around $5,000 to $8,000. The cost for partial dentures will generally be less than this and will be largely dependent on the number of teeth missing and whether removable or fixed dentures are selected.
If you lose some or all of your teeth then false teeth dentures are an option to consider. Although it is far better to retain your natural teeth, if this is not possible dentures can provide a decent alternative. They ensure that your speech and eating abilities remain intact and will help you to retain your self esteem when you face the world.