Dentures are removable false teeth used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Thinking of having your teeth replaced with false teeth as a senior can be tough because of the cost of dental procedures and an array of options available in Australia. Denture options include permanently cemented (not removable) such as veneers, crowns, bridges and dental implants.
Here are some of the costs of false teeth, common denture options, insurance options and financing dentures options in Australia.
Do I need dentures?
These are some signs to determine if you need to discuss new dentures with your dentist:
- Persistent toothaches. If there’s a sign of decay affecting the nerves in the centre of a tooth.
- Tender, swollen, or bleeding gums. It can be a sign of periodontal disease or gingivitis. Gum diseases may lead to teeth or bone loss if left unattended.
- Loose or shifting teeth. This can be a sign of gum disease.
- Missing teeth. One or more missing teeth can negatively affect your eating.
- Struggling to eat particular food. If you have trouble eating particular food could lead to general discomfort.
Common denture options
- Implant retained dentures. Overdentures are for people missing most of their teeth, held steady by titanium screws in the jawbone.
- Snap dentures. This requires fewer implants than implant retained dentures and held steady by remaining teeth or metal posts.
- Partial dentures. Bridge, a partial denture, can be used with some remaining natural teeth. It consists of replacement teeth on a gum-colored base, usually with a metal framework.
- Complete dentures. This option is considered if all teeth are missing. ‘Conventional’ false teeth are made after teeth removal and the gums have begun to heal (8-12 weeks). ‘Immediate’ false teeth are used immediately after teeth removal. However, it often requires adjustments as bones and gums can shrink after teeth have been removed.
Cost of dentures for pensioners in Australia
Based on the 2019 Australian Dental Association survey of dental fees for Australian pensioners and those without health insurance, the cost can range between:
- $1,350, upper denture average costs
- $3,500, mid-range upper and lower acrylic dentures.
The cost can be $800 less if you have a mid-range extras health insurance policy. Although about $1,200 less if you have a comprehensive extras health insurance policy
Understanding and evaluating the cost of false teeth can be challenging. Medicare does not usually cover this or some dental devices. And if you sign up for private health insurance covering false teeth, there’s usually a one year waiting period for eligibility.
Risks of dental tourism
The cost of false teeth in Australia may lead seniors to consider low-cost false teeth in places like Thailand or India. However, other than the added cost of airfare and accommodation, there are some risks with dental tourism such as hygiene standards, blood clots, or post-surgery complications.
Dentures for Australian seniors with the help of the ASAG Reverse Mortgage
If you don’t have health insurance or are unable to pay in full for your false teeth, you may have the option to access your home equity via the ASAG Reverse Mortgage. The fund you receive can be used for Day-to-Day Expenses or any of your retirement objectives.
To qualify for our reverse mortgage, you have to be aged 60 or older, and an Australian homeowner. Also, make sure to seek advice from your dentist as having quality dentures is necessary to enjoy a healthy diet and boost your confidence.
The ASAG team is happy to assist you with more details about how the ASAG Reverse Mortgage works. Our lines are open on 1300 002 724 and at info@asagfirst.com.au, so feel free to call us or send your enquiries about our equity release solutions.
You can also get started by using our tool below to assess your available equity.