Complete dentures are dentures that are used to replace complete sets of teeth, and can be used to replace the lower or upper teeth. Complete dentures are the best option if you have lost all your natural teeth or if you have lost a large number of teeth and the remaining teeth are damaged or decayed. If this is the case, your dentist will remove the damaged or decayed teeth and replace the missing teeth with complete dentures.
Complete dentures may be made from different materials, including metal alloys, acrylic or a mixture of both. Dentures are usually associated with older people and many people still think of bulky sets of false teeth when they think about dentures. However, this is no longer the case and modern dentures are more lighter, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing than traditional dentures. The dentures are designed to look like natural teeth and gums to create a natural, healthy looking aesthetic.
Why are complete dentures beneficial?
If you have a large number of missing teeth then this will undoubtedly have an effect on your overall appearance. You may feel conscious about opening your mouth, you may not feel comfortable talking to others or smiling and you may suffer from low confidence. Complete dentures can create a completely new aesthetic that mimics the natural smile. As well as improving the appearance of your smile, complete dentures will also improve speech, enable you to eat what you want and provide support for your lips and cheeks. Complete dentures are also beneficial for the gums.
NHS dental treatment
Complete dentures are available on the NHS, but unlike most NHS services, dental treatment is not available free of charge for most people, though fees are considerably lower than private fees. Dentures on the NHS may be made from metal, synthetic resin or a combination of both.
As the demand for NHS care is high, you may have to wait longer for treatment than if you were to visit a private dentist.
How much do complete dentures cost?
The cost of complete dentures varies greatly, as some clinics can charge in excess of £1000 while others will only charge around £500. The fees are based on the proficiency of the dentist, the denture material used and that actual practice itself. If you choose to have private treatment, it is worth getting quotes from different clinics and, if you are struggling to afford treatment, you may wish to consider having treatment on the NHS, which is considerably cheaper or shopping around for payment plans. Dentists often offer payment plans, which enable you to spread the cost of treatment over a period of time.
On the NHS dentures are classed as a band 3 treatment and the current fee is £204. This is the maximum fee for NHS dental treatment. If you are not registered with an NHS dentist and you want to find an NHS dentist in your local area, contact your local Primary Care Trust or use the NHS Choices website to search for dental services in your area.