How Much Do Dentures Cost?
If your smile is missing one or more teeth, dentures might be a great solution. Many different types of these prosthetic devices are available to meet a range of oral health needs. So, how much can you expect a set of dentures to cost? While we can’t offer an exact price without knowing the specifications of your dental health, we can give you a general idea of the average cost of dentures.
What affects the cost of dentures?
Many factors affect the overall cost of dentures. Here are a few elements to consider as you prepare for your new dental appliance:
Type of dentures
There are several types of dentures on the market that all have different price points:
Traditional dentures: May be full or partial dentures. Removable and easy to clean. Typically the most affordable option.
Immediate dentures: Temporary, removable dentures worn immediately after extraction until permanent dentures are available. May be relatively inexpensive, as they’re not meant for long-term use.
Implant-supported dentures: Long-term solution only removable by a dentist. Often more expensive than other dentures due to necessary implants.
Denture material
Most dentures are made of acrylic, which is cost-effective and easy to adjust. Porcelain is another popular choice, as it looks realistic. However, these dentures cost more than the alternatives and may be more prone to breakage. Other dentures include materials like nylon, resin, and metal.
Number of teeth replaced
Many people assume that a partial set of dentures would cost less than a complete set, but that isn’t always true. In fact, custom-fitted dentures made for your mouth’s unique specifications can be more expensive than a traditional upper-and-lower arch set.
Dentist location and expertise
Your dentist’s location and experience level will also impact the cost of your dentures. Offices in high-cost-of-living areas and those in big cities will typically charge higher prices than clinics in more rural regions.
Preparatory appointments
Your dentist will likely take impressions of your mouth in order to create a mold for your new dentures. Many people also require cleanings, fillings, and other routine dental work to ensure optimal oral health before having dentures made. This will help you get the longest possible lifespan out of your new dental appliance.
Follow-up appointments and adjustments
As you adapt to your dentures, you may need to visit your dental provider for adjustments to ensure the most comfortable fit. These appointments, the preliminary exam, and sessions to take impressions are typically not included in the cost of your dentures.
Payment methods
Although repairing your smile and replacing missing teeth may not be cheap, most dental offices are happy to work out a payment plan to ensure every patient has access to care. However, some clinics charge additional fees for credit card payments.
Does insurance cover the cost of dentures?
Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of the cost of dentures. Here’s what you need to know:
Type of dental coverage
Every dental insurance plan is different, so reading the fine print will help you understand which costs are covered or not when getting dentures. A private insurance plan is usually more expensive than Medicaid or Medicare but may have better coverage.
Most providers require patients to visit a dentist that’s in-network. In other words, they’ll only pay when you go to a dentist who they have agreed to partner with.
Coverage limits
Many insurance policies stipulate the number of appointments or dollar amount they will pay for a specific treatment or patient. Once you exceed those limits, you will likely be responsible for the outstanding balance.
Deductibles and copayments
Most insurance plans require patients to pay a deductible before they will cover treatment costs. For example, if your plan has a $1,000 deductible and your dentures cost $2,500, you’ll pay $1,000, and your insurance provider will pay $1,500. In some cases, copays for previous dental visits may count toward your $1,000 deductible.
How much do dentures cost vs other alternatives?
Dentures are generally the most cost-effective solution to replace multiple missing teeth, but you may have other options. Here’s how some denture alternatives stack up:
Dentures vs implants costs
Implants are a popular solution, as they can minimize the risk of bone loss after an extraction. Whether you’ve lost a single tooth or all of your teeth, implants can replace them and mimic the look, feel, and function of your original teeth. However, they’re substantially more expensive than dentures because they’re placed during a surgical procedure.
Dentures vs dental bridges
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that uses adjacent teeth for support. If you’re missing several teeth but the ones nearby are healthy, a dental bridge can fill the gap. Removable bridges are a low-cost solution, while implant-supported bridges are generally pricier.
Explore your options at Coral Reef Dental!
Many people find that dentures restore their smile and improve their quality of life, making them well worth the cost. Whether you’re missing teeth because of an injury, accident, or other cause, the experts at Coral Reef Dental can help put the sparkle back in your smile. Reach out today to begin your journey to happy, healthy teeth!