Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my dentures?
Complete dentures should be replaced approximately every 10 years. Over time your gums and bone change shape, causing dentures to become ill-fitting. When this happens you may be prone to mouth infections, and have pain and irritation due to your dentures rubbing. As denture teeth wear down you may find eating becomes more difficult, and you may get pain in your jaw joint, among other negative occurences. Your appearance and speech can also be greatly affected by poorly fitting and worn teeth.
Partial dentures may need to be replaced more often, depending on other changes to the natural dentition.
How many appointments will I need?
Every case is different; as a guide, complete dentures and cobalt-chrome partials usually require 5 – 6 appointments. Small partials generally require less appointments. Follow-up appointments are additional, as needed.
How long are appointments?
Most appointments are 30 – 60 minutes in length, but may be shorter or longer. I will inform you of the expected length of each appointment.
Your prices are stated as being ‘From…..’. Why is this?
I offer a range of products to suit my clients’ individual needs and budgets. The prices stated reflect a standard product, to which upgrades can be added. Please inquire directly for more details about this.
My dentist has told me I need to have dentures. I’m really worried my teeth will look false. Can you make teeth that look just like my own?
YES!! This is the type of case I really enjoy, however it does cost more than the standard product. The type of materials, techniques, equipment, and time spent is increased, in order to achieve the best possible result.
How long will it take me to get used to new dentures?
It depends. Many people find they require a few appointments to remove sore spots and are OK after that. Issues with speech are usually overcome in a matter of days. Salivary flow may increase for a week or so before going back to normal. Eating with your new teeth is probably the area that needs time and patience. It may take a few weeks of trying different foods to work out the best way of using your dentures to chew through them.
Elderly and unwell people may find it a much greater challenge to get used to new teeth, taking many months to adjust. It is part of my training to identify clients who may experience difficulty with new dentures, and I will construct a treatment plan which best meets these clients’ needs.