Continual advancements in dental care make it possible to preserve natural teeth for longer than ever; however, 33 million Americans don’t have any in one or both arches. If you’ve suffered significant tooth loss, your teeth weren’t the only thing you lost. Your self-esteem and quality of life also took drastic turns for the worse. You don’t have to live with the challenges of missing teeth. Dentures are a tried-and-proven method to rebuild a beautiful, functional smile. Contrary to common rumors, they aren’t as expensive as you’ve been led to believe. Although there’s not a flat fee for a new set of teeth, here’s how much you can expect to pay when budgeting for the cost of dentures.
1. Consultation and Preparatory Procedures
Most people who have good oral and general health are candidates for dentures, but you’ll still need a consultation with your dentist. Besides examining your smile, they may also take images and impressions of your mouth. After determining if dentures are right for you, they’ll create a personalized strategy to revamp your smile.
Besides the consultation fees, it’s common for patients to need a little prep-work before getting dentures, like periodontal therapy or tooth extractions. Although it can increase the amount you pay, preparatory treatments are crucial to the success of your investment.
2. Type of Denture and Materials
You have more choices than ever to replace your lost teeth. As an alternative to traditional dentures, many patients are choosing the reliability of dental implants. The type of denture you pick will affect the amount you’ll pay.
You also have several materials to choose from, each with various price ranges. Although you’ll find discounted materials, they’ll cost you more down the road. It’s better to pay more upfront for a high-quality prosthetic that will serve you for many years.
3. Dental Insurance Coverage
You may be envisioning the dollar signs adding up, but you also have multiple options to reduce the cost of dentures, like using your dental insurance. Every policy differs, but most plans can be used to offset the fees for certain steps in your treatment plan, like the consultation, preparatory procedures, or restorations.
After meeting your deductible, your dental insurance may cover up to 80% of the cost of certain treatments until reaching your annual limit. Your dentist will work on your behalf with your insurance company to maximize your benefits, so you’ll pay less out-of-pocket.
Invest in a Complete Smile
Your dental office will strive to provide the financial solutions you need to rehabilitate your smile. They’ll review all your options to make the best decision for your oral health and wallet.
About Dr. David Earnest
Dr. Earnest earned his dental degree from the University of Texas before continuing his education in advanced services, like dental implants. He is a member of various professional organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Earnest works with many dental insurance plans to keep a healthy smile within everyone’s budget. If you’re ready to treat your tooth loss, contact our office today to schedule your denture consultation.