Full dentures & partial dentures in Commack and Dix Hills

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are man-made replacements for missing teeth, and they can be either removable or permanently installed. Modern versions look nothing like the old-fashioned type that your grandparents kept on the dresser overnight.

Today's affordable quality dentures are matched to the shape and shade of your teeth and gums, so no one needs to know you're wearing them. The teeth are translucent like your natural teeth and provide the same degree of support for your facial structure that your natural teeth provided.

Your teeth aren't just for aesthetics. They're the first step in your digestive process, and they provide support for your bone structure so that your face doesn't appear to have melted.

What Types Of Affordable Quality Dentures Are Available?

Dentures are available in many configurations, such as full or partial, fixed or removable, implant-supported or All-on-4, and many others. During your appointment at Helfner Dental Associates, your dentist will recommend the best type of denture for your lifestyle and needs. 

Full Denture/Complete Denture

A full denture, also known as a complete denture, replaces all your natural teeth and can be used in both upper and lower jaws. This type of denture is available in either removable or fixed styles. The removable full denture sits atop your jaws and must be removed daily for cleaning. The fixed full denture is anchored to implants throughout the jaw.

Partial Denture

A partial is similar to a bridge except the bridge is a permanent installation whereas a partial is affixed by clasps to adjacent teeth. A partial must be removed and cleaned daily.

Flexible Partial Denture

A flexible partial is similar to a traditional partial except it's made from a flexible, lightweight material that's more comfortable. Both the clasps and the base are gum-colored, so they look very realistic.

Implant-Supported Denture

Rather than resting on the gums like a traditional denture, an implant-supported denture is secured by dental implants. The number of dental implants needed will depend on the patient’s jawbone structure and density. Implant-supported styles can be fixed or removable. If removable, they are available as bar-retained or ball-retained. However, either retained style will need to be removed each night for cleaning.

Some implant-supported dentures are permanently attached to two, four, or more implants and look, feel, and function the same as your natural teeth. They're not removable and require the same proper oral hygiene as your natural teeth.

All-On-4® Treatment Concept

This type of denture uses four implants, two in the front and two in the rear. The rear implants are installed at an angle, which provides additional stability and more biting power than those that are installed upright. All-on-4 dentures require the same good oral hygiene maintenance as your natural teeth.

What's The Procedure For Getting Dentures?

The specific procedure will depend on the type of denture you're getting, and the scope of work you need. Generally, however, you can expect the following:

When you come to Helfner Dental Associates, your dentist will examine your teeth and mouth to determine the best type of denture for your needs and lifestyle. Then, she’ll take measurements and make an impression of your teeth and gums. If you need extractions, your dentist will either perform the extraction or refer you to an oral surgeon for the teeth removal. If you're needing dental implants, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon to surgically place the implants. After the implants are placed and fully healed, the dentist will take new impressions, provide you with a temporary denture, and begin designing your permanent denture in the meantime.

When your permanent dentures arrive, you'll return to have them installed. The dentist will fit and adjust them so they're comfortable, permanently install them if applicable, and your new smile will be complete.

How Much Will My Dentures Cost?

The cost of dental work is always unique to the individual and depends on several factors, such as:

• The type of denture you need
• The number of implants needed
• Additional work needed
• The number of office visits needed
• Your insurance coverage

After your dentist inspects your teeth and discusses your objectives and preferences, they'll provide a comprehensive estimate of the total cost of your procedure. If financing is an issue, let us know, and we'll work with you. Most insurance plans offer benefits for dentures, and we recommend that you contact your insurance provider before your appointment to gain a better understanding of your benefits, coverages, limitations, and exclusions of your policy.

What Is A Soft Denture Reline?

A soft denture reline is made of a pliable material that lasts for as long as two years and is more comfortable than the hard acrylic lining of most dentures. It can also alleviate the sore spots and pain that sometimes plaque denture wearers experience.

Need New Teeth In Commack or Dix Hills?

If you're interested in new dentures in Commack, Dix Hills, or the surrounding area, then call Helfner Dental Associates at (631) 247-0977, and we can help find a denture solution for you. Our team of dentists is among the best in the area, and we're sure you'll appreciate your new smile and the ability to resume eating your favorite foods after your denture journey.