If you suffer from constant tooth problems, you may be considering dentures. Dentures are a great way to
Even the cheapest dentures still cost $300-$600 when you pay full price. This will likely get you a plastic set of teeth. These tend to wear down quickly and break easily. They may not fit well, might need frequent relining, and need to be replaced every few years.
Avoid online companies that offer
All told, cheap dentures may end up costing a lot in the long run. Explore where can you get affordable dentures implants to make an informed decision for your dental health.
Choose affordable dentures, not cheap
Affordable is not the same as cheap, however. You can get a set of quality made dentures at a price you can manage in your monthly budget.
Investing in a nice set of acrylic dentures with durable teeth will cost from $1000-$3000 per arch. These cost more in the beginning but fit better and last longer. Specially customized dentures may run $4000 or more per set.
For those on a tight budget, prices like this may still seem out of reach. There are ways to make dentures more affordable, however.
#1: Travel abroad
One popular option is dental tourism. Countries like Mexico and Thailand offer great dental care for a lot less money than in the US.
Many people choose this route because they also get the chance to travel. Even so, there are several things to consider before packing your bags.
With the cost of travel, lodging, and food, you may end up paying more than you would in the states. But if you enjoy your trip, it may be worth it!
Another thing to think about is the quality of care. There are great dentists in other countries, but there are also doctors that cut corners to save money. You should thoroughly research who you are seeing before hopping on a plane.
#2: Find good dental insurance
Having good dental insurance can greatly reduce the price of dentures. There are many insurance plans available. Coverage can vary widely, so be sure the plan fits your needs.
Normally, dental insurance helps cover both removing teeth and replacing them. They don’t pay for everything, though.
Most dental insurances have a yearly maximum of $1000-$2000. Anything over this amount will come out of your pocket.
Most dental offices now offer in house or third-party financing. This helps cover the rest with a low monthly payment. Some even offer a cash discount if you pay your part in full.
#3: Consider dental savings plans
Dental savings plans offer big discounts on dental treatment at select providers. They can be used along with insurance or instead of insurance.
There are usually no limits or deductibles like traditional dental insurance. Signing up requires agreeing to a yearly subscription fee, but the price is usually low and the savings can be worthwhile.
#4: Visit dental schools
Having your dental work done by a student may concern some people. It is actually a great way to save significant cash. Every step of treatment has to be approved by a teaching dentist, so you’re going to get quality work done.
Prices at dental schools are often half of what they are at a private practice dentist. Treatment does tend to take a lot longer since every step has to be checked and graded.
#5: Use government program
Here are some government programs that can help you save on dentures.
Medicare
Medicare is government-sponsored insurance coverage. It is offered to seniors or those with disabilities.
Medicare does not have specific dental coverage. It does often cover dental extractions and other some other procedures though. Having your tooth removal surgeries covered can significantly reduce the overall price of treatment.
You can also find certain Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part C add-on plans. These offer dental coverage at additional costs. These plans are sold through private insurance companies and cover procedures beyond what is offered by Medicare alone.
Medicaid
Medicaid coverage, on the other hand, is income based and may vary from state to state. Some do offer help with dental treatment, including dentures.
Contact your state Medicaid office to find out what dental coverage is offered. If you need help with your coverage, call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) at 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227).
PACE
Depending on your situation, another government program that may help is called the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (or PACE).
PACE is run jointly by Medicare and Medicaid. It focuses on independent living for seniors and avoiding long term nursing home care as long as possible.
#6: Check charity organizations
There are numerous charity organizations that offer help to those in need of dental services.
Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) is a national charitable organization. Their mission is to improve the oral health of people with disabilities or who are elderly and have no other way to get help. They have over 15,000 volunteer dentists nationwide.
The Oral Health America charity has a program for seniors called the Wisdom Tooth Project. It is tailored to older adults and their caregivers to connect them with care.
Another great resource is the United Way. With nearly 1800 locations around the world, the United Way helps connect those in need with various services including healthcare.
#7: Choose equally (or even more) affordable alternative
Even the most well-made dentures should be repaired, relined, and/or replaced every five to seven years. The teeth eventually wear down flat and become difficult to chew with, the body of the denture is likely to fracture or break over time, and the jaw bone changes over time. So dentures can end up being much more expensive than you expect.
There is an alternative to dentures, however, that is permanent, provides more chewing ability, and maintains the bone of the jaw. The G4 Implant Solution by Golpa uses 4-6 dental implants on each jaw with a permanent fixed bridge attached. They look, feel, and work like your natural teeth.
Implants stimulate the bone like natural tooth roots. That means your jaw does not waste away over time. The teeth are permanently attached as well. No more taking teeth out to put in a cup at night.
Best of all, they last a lifetime. While more expensive on the front end, you get value from not having to constantly replace dentures.
You also have the confidence of a permanently fixed smile. This may far outweigh the investment.