While dentures have always been commonly needed by older people, these days more and more people are keeping their teeth, thanks to advancements in dentistry. But in case you ever find yourself among those who do need dentures, there’s nothing to fear, as long as you have some dental insurance.

Regular Dental Visits Are Part of the Secret

Your regular check-ups are important. When your dentist examines your teeth and gums, they’re looking for early signs of decay and identifying areas that need attention. By staying on top of things, you’re greatly reducing your risk of losing teeth.

One particular thing that dentists look out for is gum disease. Your gums are vulnerable to bacteria, which can cause inflammation. This, in turn, can cause your gums to become diseased, eventually leading to tooth loss.

If you pay attention to your oral health and visit the dentist regularly, you can greatly reduce your chances of losing teeth.

Beyond the Dentist’s Chair

Preventative measures are a wise investment, but they don’t stop at the dental office. To keep your teeth and gums in good shape, you have to do your part as well.

  • Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and be careful not to irritate your gums.
  • Choose toothpaste that will clean your teeth and treat your gums.
  • Floss regularly.
  • Use a dental rinse to remove bacteria and plaque.

Eating healthy foods and avoiding sugar can also help keep your teeth in good shape. Taking care of your teeth benefits your overall health, too.

When Dentures Are a Necessity

Don’t fret if it turns out you need to have teeth removed — dentistry is constantly being innovated and improved. One of the most common replacements for teeth is dentures. If you’re missing any teeth your dentist will recommend the best solution, and often dentures are just that.

If you are seeing a denturist, as opposed to a general practitioner, there may be specialist fees on top of the other expenses on your claim. Your plan will likely only pay the amount outlined in the dental fee guide and will not cover the extra fees.

To get started, your dentist will take impressions and make molds of your teeth and jaw. If you are only replacing one or a few teeth, you’ll be fitted for a partial denture. If all your teeth need replacing, you will obviously get a full denture.

dental dentist objects

Until your appliance is ready, you’ll be given a temporary denture, which is covered to some extent by most insurance plans as long as you are on the plan long enough. Once you get your permanent denture, your dentist will want to make sure that it fits perfectly. If it doesn’t, he or she will request an adjustment.

Once you’ve had your dentures for a while, your dentist will possibly wish to adjust it or realign it, depending on how your mouth is responding to the appliance. You will be given home care instructions on how to keep it clean and how to install it in your mouth properly.

How This Fits With insurance

Dentures are a major dental service. If you have a dental insurance plan that includes major services, a percentage of your dentures (and any associated laboratory fees) will be covered, as long as you have not reached your annual maximum, and you have reached the minimum time requirement.

Remember, your dentist must send in an estimate in advance. You will be responsible for any remaining amount, so find out first what your coverage is. Then you’re all clear to fill in those gaps!

For more information about dentures, please visit the Canadian Dental Association’s website. Call our office today to find out what kind of dental insurance coverage you can sign up for. You’ll be glad you did!