Dentures
Here’s what you need to know about partials and dentures
Can my denture be worn at all times?
Dentures are to be worn during the daytime, but are not recommended to be kept in at night/while sleeping. By taking your dentures out during the overnight hours, you are giving your gums time to rest, and decreasing the risk for fungal infections that can occur when the dentures aren’t properly maintained or kept in the mouth too long.
How do I store my denture overnight?
When your denture is taken out, it is recommended that you clean your appliance to avoid buildup of bacteria. Brush your denture with a soft-bristled brush, using lukewarm water and specialized denture paste. Avoid using hot water, as that can change the shape of your denture, and stay away from regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface of your appliance.
You will then need to soak your denture overnight, either using a denture cleaning solution or plain water. It is as simple as filling a cup and fully submerging your denture. This ensures that your denture does not lose it’s shape. If you choose to use a denture cleaning solution, follow the instructions listed on the packaging.
What is the difference between a partial denture and a full denture?
A partial denture is an appliance that can rest in an arch that still has natural teeth present. Partial dentures are designed to replace missing teeth, while blending in to your natural teeth still present.
A full denture is an appliance that replaces a full arch, meaning no natural teeth are present on either the upper or lower portion of your mouth. It is a full replacement!
What is an implant-retained denture?
An implant-retained denture is simply a denture that attaches to implants placed in your mouth. There are removable and fixed implant-retained dentures. Removal implant-retained dentures can snap on and off at home, and will require the same care as removable dentures. Fixed implant-retained dentures can only be removed by dental professionals. Patients usually like fixed implant-retained dentures, because they tend to feel more like your natural teeth. Both are great options and provide stability and anatomical preservation that removable dentures often do not.
What happens if my denture breaks?
Accidents happen! If your denture cracks or a piece breaks off, it is important that you call Pitt on Penn to schedule an appointment. Typically, denture repairs require us to send your appliance to our lab technician. You can expect a 2 week waiting period before receiving a call from us to pick up your repaired denture. The sooner you are able to let us know a repair is needed, the sooner we are able to get your repaired appliance back to you.
Does my insurance cover a partial or full denture?
In order for us to determine the cost of your treatment, a few things need to happen first. We will need to see you for a comprehensive exam, where a customized treatment plan will be created, tailored to your individual needs. Next, our insurance specialist will give you a treatment cost estimate based off of your insurance providers fee schedule and your plan’s coverage. The treatment plan estimate will be presented to you with an opportunity to ask questions. It should be noted that this is just an estimation given to you, with the information provided to us by your insurance provider. Your provider’s coverage is determined by them, not by us!