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How Can I Replace My Teeth If I Can’t Afford Dental Implants?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

What can I do if I can’t afford dental implants but am not ready for dentures? I’m 42, and most people think I look younger until I smile. I’m embarrassed and depressed. I’ve searched online for assistance and have joined various forums about people who have lost their teeth. Instagram has so many full-mouth implant videos of people who look like they have an average income. After seeing the cost of implants, I wonder if those advertisements are real. How can I find dentists for pro bono implants, or who give away implants if you do ads for them? Am I being unrealistic? Are dentures my only option? I’m a single mom with two teenagers, and I want to be happy for my kids. Thanks. Jada from WV

 

Jada,

We understand your concerns and how missing teeth can affect your emotions and self-image. Dental implants outlast and outperform removable dentures. However, if you want dental implants, you must pay for them. We have some suggestions for making implant dentures more affordable.

How Can You Replace Missing Teeth If You Can’t Afford Dental Implants?

If you can’t afford dental implants, you can replace missing teeth with a removable partial or complete denture. When all your upper or lower teeth are missing, consider the following options that may allow you to get dental implants.

Get Dentures Now and Save for Implants

Getting dentures now and saving for implants can make them more affordable. If you get a quality denture, an implant dentist can modify it to accommodate dental implants.

Get a Discount at a Teaching School

If you live near a university with a dental school, they may teach implant dentistry and need patients as subjects. Although the dental implants won’t be free, you may get a discount for being willing to get implants from students.

Consider Implant Denture Options

Diagram of an affordable dental implant option - a snap-on denture hovering above two dental implants.

A snap-on dentures makes implants more affordable

Although four to six dental implants provide superior stability for a denture, you can get an affordable option, such as a snap-on denture. Two implants can anchor a snap-on denture. Some dentists use mini-implants to secure a denture.

Find Charity Dental Clinics for Removable Dentures

Some communities have charitable clinics that will offer a budget removable denture. However, the clinics do not offer free dental implants and dentures. Dentures were the standard of care for decades until about 30 years ago. Still, 40 million Americans wear partial or implant dentures. A dental clinic will provide dentures to fulfill your basic need for replacement teeth.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley, Dr. Thompson, and Dr. Coughran do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Can I Get Implant Dentures in Phases If I Can’t Afford Them Now?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Can I get implant dentures in phases? I can’t afford implant dentures all at once, so I wonder if I can get a quality denture first and get implants later. For the last 20 years, I have worn dentures. Cheap dentures don’t last long, and I need another pair. I’m tired of needing dentures so often, and they loosen within a few months. Besides, I’ve noticed my face drooping after so many years with no teeth. Can I get dentures now and dental implants as an add-on later? – Thanks Krystal

 

Krystal,

Diagaram of a lower implant overdenture on four implants

Implant denture

With planning, you can get a new quality denture to accommodate dental implants later. We recommend scheduling an appointment with an advanced cosmetic dentist who offers dental implants. You can get natural-looking dentures and plan treatment to add dental implants later.

Since you have experienced jawbone shrinkage, a 3D CT scan will measure your bone volume to determine whether you need bone grafting before dental implants. If so, your new dentist and oral surgeon (if applicable) will include bone grafting in your treatment plan.

Schedule consultations with dentists trained in cosmetic and implant dentistry or partner with an oral surgeon or periodontist for implant surgery. The dentists will coordinate your care and explain your options for getting dentures retrofitted for dental implants. Prepare for the consultations by listing your questions about the procedure and payment options to make implant overdentures affordable.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read how  Dr. Finley and his team work to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

 

Am I Too Old for Dentures with Implants?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Am I too old for dentures with implants? I am 73 years old and have worn dentures since I was 52.  My jawbone is thin and worn. My dentist relines my dentures often, but it doesn’t last long. My dentures click when I talk, so I have noticed people looking at my mouth rather than paying attention to what I am saying. I’m becoming more anxious and tired of the embarrassment. My dentist asked me to reconsider dental implants because I refused them three years ago, but is it worth it at my age? Thank you – Laurent, from Maine

Laurent,

One of our dentists would need to complete an exam and a 3D CT scan to determine your eligibility for dental implants, but we will answer your question in general.

Are You Too Old for Dentures with Implants?

You are not too old for dentures with dental implants if you have generally good health and are healthy enough for oral surgery. After missing teeth for many years, most of your jawbone will shrink. Bone shrinkage can prevent your denture from staying in place. You mentioned that your bone is thin, but you may still be an implant candidate. An implant dentist or oral surgeon will review your medical and dental histories. A 3D CT scan gives an implant dentist a thorough view of your oral anatomy and jawbone to determine your options for implant dentures.

Bone grafting

Diagram of a lower denture hovering over four dental implants in the jawbone.

You’re not too old for implant dentures if you have generally good physical and oral health.

An implant dentist can use natural or synthetic bone and graft it into your jawbone. In three to four months, your body will build bone to support dental implants. Two to six implants can support a denture. You will not have to worry about poor-fitting dentures again.

All-on-4 implants

If you have enough thickness in the jawbone toward the front of your mouth, you may be eligible for All-on-4 implants, a technique that minimizes the need for bone grafting. Your implant dentist will angle the rear implants to increase jawbone support.

Schedule an appointment with an experienced implant dentist to discuss your options for implant dentures.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Can I Order Dentures with Gold Teeth?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I do not want dentures, but I have lost so many teeth that I will need them soon. I still consider myself young at 52, so I prefer to do something different with my denture teeth. Can I get the front two denture teeth in all gold or get the teeth trimmed in gold? Thank you, Cameron, from Carson City, NV

Hi, Cameron,

Thank you for your question.

Can You Get Gold Denture Teeth?

Photo of natural-looking upper and lower dentures.

Request a denture consultation with a cosmetic dentist

Yes, you can get gold denture teeth. A dentist will try to preserve your natural teeth, if possible, but if you need dentures, you can request gold teeth or teeth trimmed in gold. Your dentist will ask you for details to ensure the result is what you want. If you have a photo as an example of your preference, show it to your dentist.

What Are Gold Window Teeth?

Gold window teeth or gold open-face teeth are trimmed in gold with a natural tooth shade in the middle. Your dentist will ask how many denture teeth you want with gold trim and how many should remain untouched.

How Much Do Gold Denture Teeth Cost?

The cost of gold denture teeth depends on several factors, including:

  • Quality of denture teeth
  • Whether you choose gold-trimmed or all-gold teeth
  • Your dentist’s fees and where you live in the U.S.

How Long Will It Take to Get a New Denture?

It takes four to six appointments to get a new denture. The process can include the following:

  • A consultation
  • An exam and x-rays
  • Tooth extraction
  • Impressions of your mouth
  • A wax occlusal rim to measure the relationship between your upper and lower jaw
  • Register your bite
  • A wax try-in
  • Denture fabrication at a dental laboratory
  • Try-in and adjustments

Living with Dentures

Adjusting to eating, speaking, and living with dentures takes time. Try to be patient and reasonable and give yourself a few weeks to become more comfortable with the denture fit. Your dentist may speak with you about using dental implants to stabilize and improve the function of your denture.

Schedule a consultation with an advanced cosmetic dentist to get quality, natural-looking dentures that fit well.

Monroe, Louisiana, dentist Dr. David Finley sponsors this post. Dr. Finley and his team participate in continuing education to help them offer some of the best dental care in Monroe.

Is It Harmful to Wear Dentures Overnight?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Does it matter whether I take my dentures out nightly? I’ve worn dentures for five years without problems. Last night during a conversation with a friend, we talked about denture wearing, and I mentioned that I sleep in my dentures, take them out in the morning to clean, and put them back on immediately afterward. She was shocked that I slept in my denture. Although I don’t have a reason for doing it other than vanity and not wanting my partner to see me without a denture, is it harmful? – Thank you. Althea from Chattanooga, TN

Althea,

Thank you for your question. We understand the impact of missing teeth on your self-image and social life. Still, maintaining good oral health is equally essential as a denture that fits well and looks good. A well-made endure improves your facial appearance and can help your smile look healthier and younger.

Is It Harmful to Wear Dentures Overnight?

Yes, it is harmful to wear dentures overnight for the long term. Removing your denture while you sleep has several benefits:

  • Allows the small blood vessels within the oral tissues to open and improve blood flow
  • Relives your jawbone and tissues from the pressure of an oral appliance that can accelerate bone shrinkage
  • Supports saliva flow to cleanse your mouth with saliva and prevent bacteria overgrowth
  • Prevents denture stomatitis, a painful oral yeast infection that inflames gums
  • Minimizes bad breath

How to Take Care of Your Denture

You can take care of your denture with these steps:

  • Remove it nightly
  • Cleaning it thoroughly with nonabrasive toothpaste and a soft toothbrush or denture brush
  • Soak it until morning

Nightly removal protects your denture, mouth, and overall health. Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and prevent oral irritation, making it difficult to continue wearing your denture.

Overcoming Embarrassment About Removing Dentures

Photo of natural-looking upper and lower dentures.

Remove your denture nightly to prolong its life and protect your oral health

You can overcome embarrassment about removing your denture at night by explaining to your partner that nightly removal is best for oral health. Taking care of yourself is a priority for business, family, and social relationships. Otherwise, you cannot give your best.

Ask your dentist if you need advice on denture cleaners and how to take care of your appliance.

 

Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. David Finley sponsors this post.

Will I Lose All My Teeth to Gum Disease?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Senior man with a concerned look, portraying worry about gum disease and tooth lossI lost 8 teeth between 2020 and June 2022. Five more teeth are loose. I have feared the dentist for years but talked to my doctor and finally saw a dentist. Last week, the dentist confirmed that I have advanced gum disease and referred me to a periodontist because she said the problem is urgent. My appointment with the periodontist is on September 12, but I do not know what to expect. Can you give me an idea of whether a specialist may recommend that I get dentures? Is it too late to stop gum disease? Thank you. Perry from OKC

Perry,

Thank you for your question. Your dentist wisely refers you to a periodontist. If you have lost eight teeth, your condition will progress without treatment. Dr. Finley would need to take x-rays and examine your teeth and gums for an accurate diagnosis.

Although more than 47 percent of U.S. adults aged 37 and older have gum disease, the condition is treatable. We will explain possible options.

Will You Lose All Your Teeth to Gum Disease?

Whether you lose all your teeth to gum disease depends on several factors:

  • Restoring your gum loss – You must follow your periodontist’s instructions closely because healthy gums are vital for healing your ligaments and teeth. Your commitment to at-home care and treatment appointments can help save your teeth.
  • Replacing bone loss – Advanced gum disease deteriorates the bone that supports your teeth. If your bone is damaged, a periodontist may recommend bone grafts to stabilize your teeth.
  • Controlling chronic illness – Medical conditions that affect your immune response or your body’s ability to heal can affect the success of your periodontal treatment. If you have chronic medical concerns, work with your doctor to manage them and promote healing.
  • Stop smoking – If you smoke, quit the habit because it will slow healing and can make it impossible for your gums to recover after periodontitis (advanced gum disease).

Will You Need Dentures?

If your teeth are unsavable, you will need dentures; however, removable dentures are not stable and will decrease your chewing efficiency. Still, complete dentures are better than functioning without teeth.

Implant overdentures

Dental implants make it possible to stabilize dentures so they function well and look natural. Two to six dental implants will help your denture stay in place. Denture stability increases with the number of implants you receive.

After a consultation, exam, and x-rays, your periodontist will explain your treatment options and whether you are at risk of losing any more teeth. We wish you a steady recovery.

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post.

 

Can I Get Implant Dentures If I Smoke?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I want implant dentures, but I smoke. I’ve worn upper and lower dentures since 2014, but my jawbone shrinkage was so rapid that my dentures are always loose. My dentist relines my dentures, and I use adhesives regularly. Still, why should needing teeth be such a hassle? My dentist said he could adapt my denture for implants a few years ago. I don’t know if that still applies, though. If I didn’t need dentures to eat and avoid embarrassment from having no teeth, I would go without them. I work from home, so it is easy not to wear my dentures while I work, but I must put them in to eat. Even then, I am limited in what I can eat. Last year, and the two previous years, I tried to stop smoking but failed. Do I really need to stop smoking before I get implant dentures? What happens if I cannot quit? Eldridge from Columbia, SC

Eldridge,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Finley would need to examine your mouth and dentures to determine their condition. If your dentures no longer fit well, you will need new ones for your implant overdentures.

Can You Get Implant Dentures If You Smoke?

Diagaram of a lower implant overdenture on four implants

Implant denture

You are not alone if you want implant-supported dentures but find it challenging to stop smoking. Some dentists place dental implants anyway after ensuring you are well-informed of the increased risk of dental implant failure.

Other dentists will partner with your medical doctor to help you find resources and treatment to help you stop smoking. Abstaining from nicotine several weeks before surgery and as the implants heal can help your implants become a reliable anchor for your dentures.

We will discuss how tobacco use affects the stability of implant dentures.

Tobacco Use Constricts Blood Vessels

Any nicotine product constricts blood vessels. A reduction of blood flow and oxygen slows healing around your dental implants. Gum and bone tissue can become irritated and inflamed.

Nicotine Reduces Blood Flow

Normal blood flow helps your jawbone fuse to the dental implants, or artificial tooth roots, in a process called osseointegration. The bond between your jawbone and implants will be solid in three to four months. When smoking limits the blood flow to your mouth, the healing delay can cause dental implant failure.

Nicotine Hides Gum Disease Symptoms

Nicotine constricts the blood vessels and can make gum disease challenging to detect and treat. Localized gum infections around dental implants will prevent healing. Your implants and bone will not fuse, and the implants will fail.

Smoking Affects Your Bone Health

Not smoking after surgery will protect your jawbone health and keep the implants healthy. Research shows that smoking increases the risks of gum inflammation, bone loss, and dental implant failure. Also, if you already have some bone shrinkage, you may need a bone graft to support your implants. It is best to avoid smoking altogether for long-term bone health and dental implant stability.

Tobacco Suppresses Your Immune System

Studies show that smoking suppresses your immune system. A weak immune system hinders healing after surgery. An article on smoking and overall health, published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, states that many of the 7,000 chemicals in cigarette smoke cause immune system imbalance.

Schedule a Consultation

We encourage you to schedule a consultation with a skilled implant dentist to discuss your interest in implant dentures and your struggle to stop smoking. An experienced implant dentist has treated patients with challenges like yours and can offer insight on how to get the best results and improve your quality of life with dentures.

Monroe, Louisiana dentist Dr. David Finley sponsors this post. Dr. Finley is an accredited cosmetic dentist and a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.

Why Does My Denture Hurt?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Senior man in pain portraying a denture that hurtsMy denture has been hurting for three months. I only wear it when I must leave home and know that I will have a conversation with someone. Otherwise, I don’t bother wearing it. My dentist “adjusted” the denture four times since January, but it still hurts.

My dentist has not explained the problem or to my knowledge, tried to find the cause of my pain. She just keeps adjusting it. I am afraid that the denture will eventually break. Why would a denture hurt consistently? Do I need to find another dentist to correct it? Thank you. Kurt from Biloxi

Kurt,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Finley or Dr. Henderson would need to examine your denture, gums, and bone to determine the cause of your pain. Also, you did not mention how long you have had the denture, which can affect how it feels. Still, we will explain reasons that a denture may hurt.

Why Does Your Denture Hurt?

The reason your denture hurts depends on how long you have had the denture, how it fits, and your oral health.

  • How long you have had the denture – A new denture may be uncomfortable and irritating until you adjust to wearing it.
  • The denture may not fit well – A poor-fitting denture can rub, cut, or make sores on your gums.
    • Too tight – Pinch your gums and cause recession or bone shrinkage
    • Too loose – Slide around and rub on your gums
    • Imbalanced – Uneven pressure on your gums
  • Bone shrinkage – Occurs after losing all your teeth; your denture may be resting on bone
  • Sharp bone – Sharp bone beneath your gums can hurt but feel like your denture is at fault
  • Food particles stuck – Bacteria-breeding food particles can get stuck between your gums and denture if you do not remove your denture to clean it or clean it properly.
  • Gum disease – Even if you have lost all your teeth, you may get gum disease. Bacteria breeding between your gums and denture base can cause gum irritation, infection, and disease.

How Can You Get Relief from Dentures that Hurt?

You can get relief from dentures that hurt by asking your dentist to check your denture fit and practicing good oral hygiene at home.

Adjusting your denture fit

Your dentist will examine your denture, gum tissue, and bone to determine the cause of your pain and how to resolve it. Possible treatment options include:

  • Denture relining
  • Denture replacement
  • Implant-supported dentures

Keeping your mouth and denture clean

Keeping your mouth and denture clean can minimize discomfort. Follow these tips:

  • Remove your denture at night
  • Soak the denture in a denture-cleaning solution overnight
  • Rinse the denture before wearing it
  • Gently brush your tongue, inner cheeks, roof of mouth, and gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • Remove and rinse your denture after meals
  • Schedule regular dental exams to ensure your gums are healthy and your denture is in good condition.

If your dentist adjusted your denture four times, but it continues to hurt, consider scheduling an exam with an advanced cosmetic dentist. A dentist with post-graduate cosmetic dentistry training can identify the cause of your discomfort and recommend ways to resolve it. If you need a new denture, a cosmetic dentist follows a detailed process to ensure it fits well and looks natural.

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry, sponsors this post.

My Gums Are Swollen Around My Crowns and Veneers

Posted on by AllSmiles.

Mature brunette man portraying concerns about swollen gums above veneers and crownsWhen I was a teenager, small surface holes developed on my teeth. My dentist at the time applied bonding on ten teeth to hide the tiny holes. Over the years as the bonding got old, the dentist recommended a combination of crowns and veneers. I have veneers on my upper front teeth and crowns on the four teeth on either side. Since 2018, I’ve had problems with swollen gums. Now I have a new dentist who prescribed an antibacterial liquid. My gums are inflamed around my upper and lower dental work, but the upper teeth are worse. I should add that my gums around my natural teeth are not inflamed.

Also, I’ve had the crowns and veneers for so long. Why is this happening now? My dentist says she can trim my gums to see if it calms the inflammation. I declined that treatment because it seems like a guess about resolving the issue. She says we can try it on a few teeth, and if it works, she can do the rest. I want to know what is causing the inflammation. My gums are red and sometimes hurt. Since I am not your patient, I know that you can’t say for sure, but what could be causing this issue?  I am afraid I have an infection that will spread throughout my mouth and cause tooth loss. I have always dreaded the thought of needing dentures! Thank you for your opinion. Will from Michigan

Will,

Thank you for contacting us. You are correct. Dr. Finley or Dr. Henderson would need to examine your crowns, veneers, and gums to determine the cause of inflammation.

What Causes Gum Inflammation Around Dental Crowns?

When you have gum inflammation around your dental crowns, the cause depends on how soon you react to the crowns:

Immediate reaction

  • Excess cement – When the dentist bonded the crowns to your teeth, they may have failed to clean cement around the crowns.
  • Crown fit – Poor-fitting crowns can irritate your gums
  • Crown position – If your crowns sit too deep beneath your gumline, it will cause irritation, inflammation, and infection.

Delayed reaction

  • Allergic reaction – If your crowns have a cheap metal foundation that contains nickel or another base metal, you can have an immediate or delayed reaction. But if you are experiencing the same problem with porcelain veneers, an allergic reaction is unlikely.
  • Gum disease – If your teeth are inflamed by gum disease, sometimes your overall health makes the condition worse. Unfortunately, many dentists are not attentive to your gum health.

Get a Second Opinion from a Gum Specialist

Your dentist has almost admitted that she does not understand the cause of your gum inflammation. Yet, she recommends trimming your gums. We advise you not to allow your dentist to trim your gums. A periodontist is a gum specialist who can determine the cause of your gum disease, whether a health condition is affecting it, and recommend treatment.

There is no reason that the situation would lead to extractions and dentures. Ask your dentist to refer you to a specialist or self-refer.

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Dr. Finely is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.

My denture’s position makes my lips look bulky

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I think my dentist positioned my dentures wrong because they make my teeth look bulky. It is a new denture for all on 4 implants. Should the front teeth follow the gumline or be a few millimeters away from it? – Anthony P. from Albany, NY

Anthony,

Thank you for choosing our office for your question.

Senior black couple smiling - for dentures info from Bayou Dental Group in Monroe, LAAlthough you ask about the gumline, which all your teeth are missing, you no longer have a gumline. The gumline is where the gum tissue and teeth meet. A denture includes a pink base above the denture teeth to replace what would have been your gumline. So, we will explain where a dentist should place denture teeth in relation to the jawbone ridge beneath the denture.

Preventing Bulky Lips with a Denture

When you receive an implant-retained denture, your dentist must consider several factors to achieve a natural-looking appearance.

  • Denture position – Placing a denture two to three millimeters from the jawbone ridge will promote a healthy bite and help you chew with comfort.
  • Facial appearance – Your dentist should make a wax model of your denture for you to try in before a lab makes your final acrylic denture. Many cosmetic dentists take these steps:
  • Set the teeth in pink wax or a plastic plate, customized to fit your mouth
  • Put the denture in your mouth
  • Evaluate the denture teeth’s appearance, your speech, bite, lip fullness, and your facial profile

If your implant denture is complete, your dentist can unscrew the denture, remove it, and reset your denture teeth. Your dentist or a lab can drill out the front teeth and reprocess the denture. If your denture does not look natural, your dentist might be willing to correct it at no cost or a minimal fee.

If You Need a Second Opinion

If your dentist is unwilling or hesitant about correcting your denture to resolve the issue with bulky lips, consider getting a second opinion. Look for an advanced cosmetic dentist to examine your denture, smile, and facial profile. A cosmetic dentist will explain your options for correcting your denture.

 

David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, LA, accredited cosmetic dentist and Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, sponsors this post.

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