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Smile Restoring North Valleys Dentures

Smiling senior man eating an appleIf you’ve experienced advanced tooth loss, it’s important to start replacing missing teeth right away. The longer patients have to go without healthy, functional smiles; the more likely they are to experience loss of supportive bone and soft tissues and other oral and overall health issues that can occur as a result of tooth loss. For decades, patients have relied on partial and full dentures to restore patients’ smiles to full, healthy function. If you’re missing a single tooth or a complete row of teeth, contact the Sage Dental Care team right away to schedule a tooth replacement consultation. We’ll partner with you to create a treatment plan and begin repairing your smile right away. With two convenient locations in North Valleys and Reno, there’s a Sage Dental Care office near you.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Dentures?

Woman smiling in the dental chair

Whether you are missing several teeth or all of your teeth, almost anyone can get dentures to complete your smile. During your consultation with us, we will examine your smile to ensure that you make a good candidate for the prosthesis. If you aren’t currently a good candidate, we can work with you to restore your oral health so you can possibly become one in the future.

Effects of Missing Teeth

Closeup of missing tooth

Teeth are very strong, but they aren’t completely indestructible. The most common causes of missing teeth include tooth decay, gum disease, and injury. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, there are a variety of negative consequences of missing teeth, like facial sagging, difficulty speaking, trouble eating, and lower self-esteem. By replacing your missing teeth with dentures, you can improve all of these areas and give yourself a better overall quality of life!

What Qualifies You for Dentures?

Woman pointing to her smile

Dentures are ideal for those who have experienced significant tooth loss but still have sufficient healthy gum tissue and jawbone. People who get dentures must also be committed to their dental health routine and willing to properly care for their dentures and oral health.

The number of teeth that you are missing and where they are located will ultimately determine the type of denture that is best for you. One of the great things about dentures is the fact that they are more affordable than other tooth replacement options. This makes them a good option for those who are unable to invest a lot of money into their smiles at this time.

Alternative Tooth-Replacement Options

Digital illustration of dental implant

If dentures don’t seem like the right option for you, you can explore other tooth loss solutions – like dental bridges and dental implants:

Learn More About Dental Bridges

Learn More About Dental Implants

Partial Dentures

Model smile with partial denture in placePartial dentures are used to fill in the gaps left by numerous consecutive and nonconsecutive missing teeth. A gum colored base material is shaped to fill in the gaps between healthy teeth. The replacement teeth are all anchored to the denture base, and the entire partial is held in place using metal clasps attached to surrounding teeth. These partial dentures are easily removed for cleaning, and they snap back into position, creating flawless, functional smiles.

Full Dentures

Full denturesLike partials, full dentures are crafted using a gum colored base material to provide support for numerous replacement teeth. Because there are no remaining teeth to provide support for full dentures, these tooth replacement prosthetics are shaped to fit against your natural jawbone, gum tissue, and palate. Once in place, the denture creates suction between the base and natural oral structures. This suction is typically adequate to provide the necessary support for your denture. To create additional stability, some patients prefer to use a small amount of denture adhesive. These products are readily available from a number of retailers. If your denture begins to feel very loose and denture adhesive is inadequate to hold it in place, it may time to visit our dental office to have your denture refitted, relined, or replaced. In many cases, repairing your denture can extend the lifetime of the prosthetic by several years.

Implant Supported Dentures

If you want to learn more about creating a more stable partial or full denture restoration, ask the Sage Dental Care team about dental implant supported dentures. Removable partials and dentures only restore about 20% of chewing function, but implant supported dentures can replace 70% or more of the healthy tooth function. We provide implant supported partial and full dentures that recreate both the root structure and crowns of missing teeth, offering a more stable, longer lasting denture. Traditional partial and full implant retained dentures are held in place using three to six implant posts spread over the entire jaw line.

In addition to traditional implant retained dentures, our team also offers patients treatment with the innovative All-on-4 implant supported denture. Rather than spreading dental implants along the smile line, All-on-4 utilizes the naturally denser bone at the front of the jaw to support your entire denture. Two dental implants are placed vertically to anchor the front of the denture. The other two implants are positioned diagonally to support the back of the denture while fusing with the front part of the smile. Whatever your tooth replacement preference, we are here to help you restore your healthy, beautiful smile.

The Unique AvaDent Digital Dentures System

To ensure we can create a perfectly functioning denture or partial, we utilize the state-of-the-art AvaDent digital denture system. Unlike traditional dentures that require the use of putty to capture impressions of the smile and wax models to craft the restorations, the AvaDent system uses digital bite impressions that ensure accuracy and precision. AvaDent takes computer assisted design and manufacture (CAD/CAM) a step further, offering computer aided engineering (CAE). The CAE system is the brain that instructs the design and manufacture of your partial or full denture. In addition to providing improved precision, the AvaDent digital denture system streamlines the entire denture creation and placement process. As soon as you’re ready to start creating your denture, we capture digital impressions. These digital images are immediately available on our chairside computer where we’ll design your custom partial or full denture. Then, the design is instantly transferred to the AvaDent lab where your denture will be crafted. In most cases, your denture will be created and returned to our office in just six days with no need for wax up models, refitting, or wasted time. You get a perfectly fitted, flawlessly functioning denture the first time.

How Dentures Are Made

Lab technician filing dentures

Dentures are a life-changing tooth replacement option for people who are missing most or all of their teeth. Because they are customized for each patient, dentures require a multi-step process to fit and look just right. Continue reading to learn more about what makes up dentures so you can appreciate them that much more!

What Are Dentures Made of?

Lab technician painting replacement teeth

Dentures are comprised of two main parts: the denture base and the replacement teeth. Here is what each one looks like:

The Denture Creation Process

Lab technician painting replacement teeth

  1. Your dentist will begin by measuring your jaw and taking impressions of your mouth. This is used to create a model that is the exact size and shape of your mouth. The model is used to make sure your final denture fits perfectly!
  2. The model is sent to the dental laboratory where your dentures will be created. First, a wax replica of your gumline is made. Then, the replacement teeth are set into place using a mechanical device known as an “articulator.” Adjustments are made by a lab technician.
  3. Your dentures are sent back to your dentist for a fitting. If everything looks good, they are returned to the laboratory to complete the process.
  4. After the dentures are back at the lab, the wax portions need to be replaced with acrylic. To do this, the lab technician placed the dentures in a flask. Plaster is poured in to maintain the shape of the dentures. Then, the flask is placed into hot water to melt away the wax.
  5. Holes are drilled into the replacement teeth and acrylic is inserted into the flask to replace the wax.
  6. The plaster is carefully removed from the denture using lab tools. The dentures are then placed into an ultrasonic bath to wash away the rest of the plaster.
  7. Any excess acrylic is cut away from the dentures. Then, they are polished to perfection.
  8. Now that your dentures are complete, they are returned to the dental office so you can try them on. If everyone is happy with the results, you can walk away from the practice with a beautiful, complete smile!

Adjusting to Your New Dentures

Lab technician carving dentures

After getting dentures, patients often experience some soreness and discomfort, but this isn’t anything to worry about. Temporary discomfort is normal as your mouth adjusts to your prosthetic. After some time, your dentures will begin to feel more and more like natural teeth. Remember to stick to soft foods and exercise your facial muscles. If any soreness persists or you have concerns regarding your dentures, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re always happy to help you out!

Benefits of Dentures

woman smiling while standing outside

Missing several or most of your teeth can pose challenges in daily activities like chewing comfortably, having effortless conversations, and smiling confidently. Restoring a complete smile with dentures offers life-changing results that last several years. As long as your gums are healthy and you have sufficient jawbone density, this method of tooth replacement can offer a well-deserved second chance. Here are several incredible benefits you can look forward to!

Psychological Benefits

older couple smiling while looking at each other

Tooth loss can lead to a sense of discomfort, making it difficult to show off your remaining teeth or smile confidently. Feeling self-conscious can significantly impact your mental and emotional well-being, potentially hindering social interactions. Choosing dentures to restore your smile can provide a significant boost to your self-esteem, alleviating any concerns about your smile, chewing ability, speech articulation, and more.

Clearer Enunciation

man smiling while inside

When some or all of your teeth are missing, it can be difficult to speak clearly. Proper enunciation often relies on the tongue and lips being positioned against the teeth. Difficulty arises when certain words require contact with teeth that are no longer present. By restoring your complete smile, dentures can enhance your ability to communicate with clarity. Although you can expect an initial adjustment period, regular practice will soon make your speech feel more natural!

Improves Nutrition

older couple shopping for groceries together

Despite the availability of soft food options, many nutritious items (i.e., lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits) can be challenging in texture. Improper chewing can lead to issues like malnutrition and indigestion. Fortunately, dentures offer a solution by restoring your full bite, allowing you to enjoy a diet rich in nutrients and vitamins. This not only eliminates complications but also ensures the intake of proper minerals, promoting improved oral and overall health.

Preserves Oral Health

woman smiling with sun shining on face

If you have missing teeth, the remaining ones are at risk of shifting to fill the gaps. Well-fitted dentures can act as a preventive measure against dental shifting and additional tooth loss. These restorations not only resist the excessive pressures of chewing, but also reduce the risk of wear and tear on your remaining natural teeth.

Expands Opportunity

man smiling with arms crossed

Your smile is a big asset for making positive first impressions. Whether you're preparing for a job interview, aiming for a promotion, or going on a date, looking your best can boost your chances of success. Replacing missing teeth with dentures not only improves your smile, but also increases your confidence. As a result, this can potentially open doors for success in your social, personal, and professional life!

Understanding the Cost of Dentures

Calculator on loose money

Your financial situation should never stand in your way of a complete, beautiful smile. Although it’s normal to be concerned about the cost of dentures in Reno, we offer the affordable solutions you need to replace your missing teeth. We create personalized estimates based on your specific needs. We’ll explain the costs associated with your plan and review your payment options during your consultation. You can achieve the smile you deserve without draining your bank account.

Factors that affect the Cost of Dentures

Older woman with dentures smiling

No two smiles are the same, so your denture dentist in Reno doesn’t use cookie-cutter treatment plans. After examining your mouth, we’ll design an individualized strategy. Although every plan differs, you can expect your estimate to include:

You’ll know exactly what you’ll need to pay before committing to anything. You can feel confident moving forward because you won’t be surprised by any hidden fees.

Are Implant Dentures More Expensive?

Man holding our money for payment

Initially, dental implants cost more upfront than traditional dentures in Reno; however, they are the most affordable long-term. Conventional dentures need to be replaced every few years, which can get costly over time. Implant dentures are proven to last for decades with the right care, so you’ll save money down the road. Not to mention, dental implants provide a nearly perfect replica of your natural smile. You can’t put a price tag on the benefits you’ll gain with an implant-supported denture.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Dentures?

Calculator with estimates

Every insurance policy is unique, but many dental plans can be used to offset the cost of dentures. Although they won’t pay the entire amount, your dental insurance can lower the amount you pay out-of-pocket. After reaching your annual deductible, you can use your yearly allowance to cover certain steps in your plan, like the consultation, imaging, or restorations. A member of our team will work on your behalf with your insurance company to maximize your benefits.

Other Options for Making Dentures Affordable

Older man with dentures smiling

If there are any out-of-pocket expenses, we offer several solutions to replace your missing teeth while staying within your budget, including:

If you’re ready to achieve the beautiful, functional smile you deserve, contact our office today to schedule your consultation for dentures. We’ll help you rebuild your smile for affordable rates.

Dentures Aftercare

Smiling senior woman in dental chair pointing to teeth

Without a doubt, you can trust our office’s dentures. They’re high-quality prosthetics sure to restore your smile. That said, they won’t work well if they don’t get proper care. Dentures need daily maintenance in order to function. Sage Dental Care is thus ready to offer some help. Listed below, you’ll find a few great tips on caring for dentures. These rules should protect your new teeth for a long while. For more details, continue reading or call our office .

Removeable Dentures

Remove After Eating

A woman removing a denture from her mouth

Firstly, it’s best to remove and rinse your dentures after eating. Food debris from meals inevitably gathers on the prosthetic teeth. Still, rinses keep this debris from sticking around. Doing them after you eat will lower your risk of gum disease and similar issues.

 

At the same time, don’t use hot water for these rinses. Intense heat can warp your denture’s material. Should that happen, the restoration’s fit will be ruined. You’ll then need a replacement.

 

Clean Your Restoration

A patient using a toothbrush to clean their denture

The next rule is to clean your dentures once daily. By following this practice, you’ll eliminate bacteria and plaque that a rinse may miss.

 

These once-daily cleanings are simple enough. Just remove the denture from your mouth and clean it with a toothbrush. However, use hand soap instead of toothpaste. (The latter is abrasive and erodes dentures.) You can then soak the dentures in a cleansing solution if there’s time. Lastly, rinse them before putting the teeth back in your mouth.

 

Keep Your Dentures Safe

A dentist explaining how to keep a denture safe to his patient

Even if they’re durable, dentures aren’t unbreakable. They’ll fall apart if put under excessive force. Therefore, ensure their safety when you aren’t using them.

 

There are several good ways to protect dentures. For instance, you could place a towel in your sink while cleaning them. (The cloth would cushion them from falls.) There’s also the choice of storing dentures in a secure case. With this secure storage, kids and pets can’t break the prosthetics.

 

Remove Dentures When You Sleep

A pair of dentures set in a glass of denture solution

Do your best to remove your dentures when you sleep. Instead, soak them in a disinfecting solution overnight while you snooze.

 

The fact is that constant denture use harms the body. It restricts your gums’ circulation, resulting in irritated mouth tissues. The habit also raises your odds of getting gum disease, as it elevates your mouth’s plaque levels. Sleeping while wearing these teeth can cause pneumonia as well.

Notice Changes

A patient talking to his dentist about his dentures

As you wear dentures, monitor them and your mouth for changes. Sudden shifts may indicate there’s a problem only a dentist can fix. In particular, watch out for mouth sores, gum irritation, and signs of infection.

 

If your dentures get damaged, it’s best to take them to your dentist. Trying to repair them yourself will worsen the situation. In contrast, a qualified dentist has the required training and resources.

 

All-on-4 Dentures

A 3D illustration of all-on-4 dentures

Unlike other types, All-on-4 dentures can’t be removed. That means they have different aftercare methods. The most common of these are:

 

  • Twice-Daily Brushing – Brush the dentures twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. (Consider using a sulcus brush – it’ll clean between the restoration and your gums.)
  • Once-Daily Flossing – Floss between your denture’s teeth once daily. If necessary, try floss threaders to get under the appliance. A water flosser could also work.
  • Regular Mouth Rinses – You can keep tartar from growing on your dentures by rinsing your mouth once daily.

Denture FAQs

Model of dentures in Reno next to paperwork and X-rays

Reading through the above information will give you insight into everything from the types of dentures in Reno to how to properly care for your new and improved smile. With that being said, it’s completely natural to still have a few questions on your mind. Since many of our patients like to do their research online, we’ve responded to a few of the most frequently asked questions we hear from patients below. As always, we’re just a phone call away if you’d prefer to speak directly with our team!

What Qualifies You for Dentures?

Whether you are missing a few teeth or an entire arch, you may be a candidate for dentures. During your initial consultation, one of our skilled dentists in Reno will take the time to conduct an oral exam, ask you a few questions, and learn all about your smile goals. From there, they can determine your candidacy. The good news is that most patients who have good oral health are a good candidate! Even if an untreated condition, like gum disease, initially stands in your way, the appropriate restorative care can be worked into your treatment plan.

Is It Hard to Talk with Dentures?

As your mouth adjusts to your new dentures, you may experience a bit of a learning curve. During this time, it’s important to be patient with yourself and take it slow. Try reading a magazine aloud and repeating the more difficult words (like “sixty) until you’re able to say them without a lisp. You should also try biting down and swallowing before you speak, which will prevent slippage and excess saliva from messing up your speech. Remember: the more you practice, the faster the adjustment process will be.

What Can’t You Eat with Dentures?

Whether you’ve been struggling with tooth loss for years or a couple of months now, you know the detrimental impact it can have on your smile. Fortunately, dentures can help restore your bite force, allowing you to enjoy your meals pain-free again! With that being said, it is a good idea to avoid foods that can tug on them, like peanut butter and gummy candies. Nuts, raw carrots, and other hard items pose a risk of damaging your restoration as well, which is why you should always exercise caution.

How Can I Reduce the Cost of Dentures?

If you have dental insurance, then you’ll be happy to know many plans cover at least a portion of the cost. Since we accept most providers here at Sage Dental Care, let us help you maximize your benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket cost! We also happily accept flexible financing through CareCredit, which can break up the cost into manageable chunks that fit into your monthly budget. Don’t worry – our team will review all of the different financial options with you in-depth at your consultation. That way, you can make an informed decision on which avenue is right for you.

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