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A Guide To Dentures

We offer a wide range of denture services that include:
Repairs, Relines, Additions, Gum Shields, Bite Guards, Night Guards, and Snoring Devices. Please ask our friendly staff about these services

The Importance of Dentures

The eyes, nose and teeth are the facial points of every face; they give the first impression of your personality. Natural teeth grow in proportion and in harmony with your facial features and your dentures should be made accordingly. Your teeth, or your dentures, have many important functions: to support your facial muscles, to help formulate your speech, and most importantly to chew your food and start the digestive process. It is important to chew food properly, as poorly chewed food will take longer to digest, especially for the elderly who could risk problems in the digestive system.

Difficulties in Constructing a Good Set of Dentures

Constructing a functional and aesthetically pleasing set of dentures is the most difficult task in dentistry.  We are not only replacing lost teeth, but also lost tissue matter and bone.  In other words, we have to re-create your facial features as they were before the loss of your natural teeth. In most cases we do not know what your teeth looked like, what size they were or what position they were in originally.  We have a few indications but mostly we have to rely on your personal anatomical landmarks as well as our visual and artistic judgment.

At the same time we have to use our technical expertise in order to make the denture stable and functional.  Denture construction is a perfect combination of science and art.

Choice of Dentures

There are several things to consider when deciding on the material used on your new set of dentures.  Firstly, the denture base material itself can be constructed from the following:

  1. Standard acrylic
  2. High impact – much stronger and more flexible
  3. Metal Plates, much stronger still and far thinner than any acrylic

And secondly, the types of tooth on your denture;

  1. 2 layer acrylic – very basic
  2. 3-4 Layer Re-enforced acrylic – much more hard wearing
  3. 5 or more layer Composite – extra hard wearing and much more natural looking

However, good materials on their own will not make good dentures, a skilful and experienced Clinician Dental Technicians are required.  The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person.

How Long Should Dentures Last?

The question we should ask is, how long will my dentures be functional?  Dentures can last probably between 5 to 8 years but will lose their function (chewing ability, proper fit etc.) probably after two years. This will depend on many factors:

  1. Quality of dentures
  2. Age of patient
  3. General health of patient
  4. Any drastic change in weight

Dentures Need Regular Servicing

Dentures are in constant use almost 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  They are also in a pretty hostile environment in the mouth, being attacked by strong acid, bacteria, hot, cold and spicy food.  Denture materials absorb liquids and food odour.

Daily cleansing is essential as well as professional ultrasonic cleaning in a dental laboratory at least once a year.   Due to constant bone resorption dentures will become loose sooner or later. Loose dentures will increase damage to the gums and bone structure, and increase the risk of breakage.  Have them relined as soon as possible to get a good fit.  It only takes a day or two.

Have your dentures inspected by your clinician at least once a year, or more frequently if necessary.

Your Dentures Need Attention

    1. When they become loose
    2. When teeth or denture base discolours
    3. When tooth surface becomes flat
    4. When denture base does not fit around natural teeth in partial dentures
    5. When your chin sticks out, and the corners of your lips are constantly wet, developing sores
    6. When you stop smiling and feel embarrassed

It is advisable to have a new set of dentures made every 5-10 years.

Loose Dentures

Can be relined by adding a thin layer of the new acrylic to fit the surface of the dentures, making them fit better (takes one or two days)

Dentures With Worn Down teeth
These dentures must be replaced with a new set

Major Improvements In Facial Features
Cosmetic Dentures will reduce lines and sunken features associated with total tooth loss. A non surgical denture face lift will improve your facial features making you look years younger.

Should I have A Spare Set Of Dentures Made?
Yes, it is very important to have a spare set of dentures for emergencies in case of breakage

Summary

  1. Clean your dentures daily with a non bristle brush
  2. Have your dentures professionally cleaned in an ultra sonic cleaner once a year
  3. Have a new set made every 5-10 years if necessary (dependent on quality of dentures)
  4. Attend a yearly check-up with possible relines involved
  5. Keep a spare set for emergencies
  6. Remember dentures do not have to hurt and do not have to be uncomfortable
  7. With a new set of dentures you will be given a guarantee depending on the prescription and type of materials used in the construction of your new dentures, a denture box, cleaning & servicing instructions and information on what to expect from your new dentures
  8. Your new dentures will come with a complete care service

REMEMBER – When your dentures are made correctly they can look so life like you would assume they were real

Good materials on their own will not make good dentures, a skilful and experienced Clinician Dental Technical are required. The best results are achieved when the whole job is done by the same person.

Dentures require maintenance, it is vital that you have them checked and cleaned annually by a Clinical Dental Technician.