Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding gum tissue, restoring the ability to chew, speak clearly, and maintain facial structure. Obtaining dentures involves multiple steps, including consultation, impressions, fittings, and adjustments, all contributing to the final expense. This article focuses on the costs associated with acquiring various types of dentures within Arizona.
Understanding Different Types of Dentures
The total cost of a denture procedure is determined by the specific type of prosthetic chosen, which dictates the materials and complexity of labor. Full (Conventional) dentures are for patients missing all teeth in an arch. They are typically fabricated after the gums have fully healed following extractions, a process that takes several weeks or months.
Partial dentures are used when a patient retains some natural teeth, filling gaps and preventing remaining teeth from shifting. These devices often feature a metal or flexible plastic framework with clasps to attach to natural teeth.
Immediate dentures are made in advance and placed immediately after teeth are removed, allowing the patient to avoid being without teeth during healing. They require frequent adjustments and relines because gum and bone tissue shrinks rapidly after extraction.
The most advanced option is the Implant-Supported denture, which utilizes surgically placed dental implants in the jawbone. This provides superior stability and retention, offering improved functionality compared to traditional removable dentures.
Average Cost Breakdown in Arizona
The price of a denture procedure in Arizona varies widely based on the type and quality of materials chosen. For a traditional Full set of dentures, costs are categorized by quality per arch.
Full Dentures
Basic or economy versions start around $600 to $1,000 per arch. Mid-range full dentures, offering improved fit and aesthetics, typically fall between $1,000 and $3,000 per arch. Premium, custom-crafted full dentures, featuring high-quality materials and extensive customization, can range from $4,000 to $8,000 per arch.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures have a broad cost spectrum based on the supporting framework material. Less durable, resin-based partials may average around $1,500 per arch. More durable metal-framework partials, often made from cobalt or chromium, typically cost around $2,000 per arch.
Implant-Supported Dentures
The cost for Implant-Supported dentures is substantially higher due to the surgical component and hardware complexity. A snap-in or removable version, which attaches to two to four implants, often costs between $6,000 and $15,000 per arch. Fixed implant-supported dentures, which are non-removable and utilize a greater number of implants, range from $15,000 to $28,000 per arch. These figures often exclude necessary preliminary procedures, such as tooth extractions, which can add $75 to $650 per tooth.
Variables Influencing Final Pricing
The broad cost ranges in Arizona are influenced by several external factors beyond the basic prosthetic type.
Geographic Location
Geographic location within the state plays a role, as practices in major metropolitan areas like Phoenix or Scottsdale often have higher overhead costs. Conversely, clinics in smaller communities or rural areas may offer more competitive pricing for the same procedure.
Material Quality
The quality of materials used in fabrication is a significant cost driver. Standard economy dentures often use basic acrylic resin, which is cost-effective but may wear down quickly. Premium dentures may incorporate high-quality, dense acrylic or porcelain teeth, offering superior aesthetics, durability, and a more natural appearance.
Professional Expertise and Preparation
The training and specialization of the dental professional also impact the final price. A Prosthodontist, a specialist in the restoration and replacement of teeth, may charge more than a general dentist due to advanced expertise. Additional procedures necessary to prepare the mouth, such as bone grafting or complex tooth extractions, also add to the overall investment.
Financing and Affordability Options
Arizona residents have several avenues to make the cost of dentures more manageable. Dental insurance plans typically provide some coverage for dentures, but patients must be aware of annual maximums. These maximums can be easily exceeded by the cost of a full set or implant-supported option, often requiring the patient to cover 50% to 70% of the cost out-of-pocket.
The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the state’s Medicaid program, provides dental coverage primarily for children under 19. For adults over 21, AHCCCS coverage is generally restricted to emergency dental services, such as extractions for infection or pain, with a limited annual benefit of up to $1,000. Some members of the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) may have a non-emergency dental benefit that applies to medically necessary dentures.
Many dental clinics offer in-house financing or accept third-party medical credit cards, such as CareCredit, allowing patients to pay for services over time. Reduced-cost options include seeking treatment at university-affiliated clinics. These facilities, such as the Dental Institute at Midwestern University in Glendale or ATSU-ASDOH in Mesa, provide quality care supervised by licensed faculty dentists at a lower cost than private practices.