My dentist is really riding me about my teeth. Yes, they’re in bad shape. But, my insurance only covers $1000 of work a year. That adds up quickly. To fix my teeth the way my dentist wants me to would cost me over $18,000. I don’t have that kind of money. At the current rate I’m losing teeth, I’ll need dentures by the end of the year. My dentist wants me to get dental implants but that is way more money than I have. What if dentures are my only option?
Jacob
Dear Jacob,
Snap-on dentures are affordable dental implants
You are in a tough position. It’s obvious you’re trying because you’re going to the dentist even though things seem hopeless to you. I’m hoping I can help you a bit. First, I’ll discuss why your dentist is pushing dental implants and then we’ll go into some options you may have.
Most people aren’t happy with their dentures. Even the best fitting dentures reduce your chewing capacity by 50%. However, your bigger problem is that your jawbone will start shrinking. Eventually, you’ll lose so much of your jawbone, you’ll be dealing with facial collapse.
I realize that none of that information solves your problem. Likely, you are just more depressed at this moment. However, I have hope for you.
Affordable Dental Implant Options
First, you should know having dentures on your upper arch doesn’t have the same consequences as on your lower arch. So, I’d focus on the lower teeth.
Next, if you have to get dentures on your lower arch, there are some affordable dental implant options. One of those is to get snap-on dentures. These use just two dental implants and will attach your denture to them. This has the benefit of keeping your dentures from falling out. However, their most important function is they will preserve your jawbone where you have the implants.
This is because your brain senses the implants and assumes you still have teeth roots there, determining you still need that bone structure. Obviously the more dental implants you have the better, but you can start with two and eventually get more as you are able.
This blog is brought to you by Atlanta Periodontist Dr. David Pumphrey.
