Dentures

Tooth loss and irreparable decay are common problems in America today. It is estimated that up to 35 million Americans have removable dentures and that number is expected to grow.

Unhealthy diets, poor oral hygiene and genetics are the largest contributors to the growing demand for dentures. Removable dentures have evolved over the years as advances in technology have expanded the field of dentistry. Dentures have grown from a geriatric medical accessory to a cost effective, tailor-made solution for those with irreversible tooth decay or missing teeth. Dr. Fung and the staff at Collaborative Dental have provided compassionate care and affordable dentures for the people of the La Mesa area for more than 35 years. Collaborative Dental provides each patient with tailored care and a customized fit in order to closely imitate the look and feel of their real teeth, all without causing financial burden.

What are dentures made of?

Typically, dentures are made of porcelain, plastic or any combination of the two. Dr. Fung and the staff at Collaborative Dental strive to provide low-cost dentures of the highest quality, customized to fit our patients’ individual needs.

What is the process to get dentures?

You will first need to consult with your dentist to pick your denture type and quality. The dentist will then need to make an impression of your teeth and gums and measure your bite. Then your dentist can help you select the perfect product type and color to fit your needs. After a few weeks of production time, your dentist will call you in to try on your dentures. The first set is usually just a temporary product used to check the fit and allow the dentist to make any necessary adjustments. After this, the dentist will get the finished product and allow you to wear them home. The entire process can take anywhere from two to four weeks to complete. The staff at Collaborative Dental works to streamline the process for their patients and go out of their way to make the process as convenient as possible so their patients are happy with their new dentures.

Will dentures make me look different?

Subtle changes may be apparent but are usually positive. Since dentures are custom tailored to imitate your real teeth, there shouldn’t be much noticeable change. It is also important that your dentures fit properly. It is essential that you attend a fitting so the dentist can make any necessary adjustments before the final product is complete.

Will dentures last forever?

The quality of the dentures you buy and the way you care for them will impact the length of time that they will last. Most dentures typically last between five and seven years before they need adjusting or replacing. As you age, you will experience changes in your mouth and jawbones may deteriorate due to the absence of teeth. These changes and bone deterioration can also dictate the need for adjustment or replacement.

What if my dentures need adjustments or repairs?

Visit your dentist to make adjustments. It is vital that you never try to repair your dentures yourself with over the counter products. These products are not made for use on dentures and they can do significant damage to your dentures and your health.

Can I wear my dentures to bed?

You can, but it is not recommended. Dental care professionals recommend that you remove your dentures at night and let them soak in an appropriate denture cleanser. Removing your dentures at night allows your gums to rest and receive normal stimulation from the tongue and saliva.

How do I clean and store dentures overnight?

Maintaining a healthy mouth starts with properly cleaning and storing dentures. At night, use a denture brush and mouthwash, and then store dentures in a glass of denture cleaner or water for up to 8 hours. Make sure to brush the rest of your mouth as normal.

What types of food can I eat when wearing dentures?

Eating with dentures may require an adjustment period, but selecting the right foods can make this process easier. Chewing can feel awkward, so it is best to eat soft foods and avoid anything that is hard, crunchy or sticky, which could damage your dentures. It is also helpful to cut food up into small pieces to make eating more comfortable.

When would a dentist deem dentures a necessity for a medical condition?

A dentist may treat a traumatic injury, disease, or dental emergency with dentures if a patient’s injury or condition is severe enough to consider dentures as “medically necessary.” This can often occur when most of the upper and lower teeth are missing.

What insurance does Collaborative Dental accept?

Collaborative Dental proudly accepts many insurances for your convenience. If you don’t see your carrier listed below, feel free to call the office and we will gladly attempt to verify coverage for you.

In Network

  • Aetna PPO & Aetna Discount Plan
  • Assurant PPO – In Network
  • Blue Cross Dental Blue: 100/200/300
  • Cigna PPO
  • Delta Dental PPO
  • Delta Federal
  • Delta TriCare
  • MetLife PPO
  • MetLife TriCare Dental Program
  • United Concordia PPO
  • United Concordia (Active Duty) – ADDP
  • GEHA Connection Dental Network – Includes Connection Dental, Dominion PPO, Principal Mutual Life PPO, United Healthcare Dental PPO, Lincoln Dental Connect, and Guardian PPO

Affordable Dentures from a Gentle Dentist

Whether you think you may need dentures or you already have them and you are having some issues, the experienced team at Collaborative Dental can help. With a highly skilled and compassionate dentist, our staff has been providing gentle denture care for people in the La Mesa area for more than 35 years. Our patients are part of our family and the last thing we want them to worry about is their smile. Our goal is to help you overcome any dental obstacle you come across. Our dental care options are comprehensive, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, dental crowns, dental bridges, root canal surgery, teeth whitening, along with clear braces, dental implants and more. We take great pride in providing a full range of dental services at a price that won’t leave your bank account drained. If you think removable dentures may be the best option for you, come and join the family at Collaborative Dental in La Mesa by calling our office at (619) 464-4346 to schedule a visit or set up an appointment with the dentist online with our easy appointment request form.

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