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FAQ2017-08-10T19:41:50-05:00
Are prices published online?2016-05-03T17:49:33-05:00

Unfortunately we don’t publish pricing online because each patient is unique and there could be challenges depending on the condition of your teeth and gums. Before providing estimates, a consultation is required to assess each case. The good news is that consultations are FREE!

What is the best way to clean my denture?2016-05-01T15:50:30-05:00

There are a number of cleaning solutions available in local drugstores; most of these work fairly well for people. However, if you’re finding these solutions inadequate and your denture is accumulating hard white plaque, there are other cleaning products available. Contact our office if you would like some assistance and we can suggest cleaning products that we have experience with.

My denture is loose, is this normal?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

Your dentures will become loose over time. This is completely normal and expected. It’s one of the big drawbacks of typical dentures and why we recommend looking at Implants as an option. Natural tooth roots are embedded in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for your teeth. When teeth are lost, the bone that previously supported them begins to deteriorate, or resorb. This causes the tissue to shrink accordingly and makes your denture loose.

To maintain your existing denture, your denturist would suggest a reline. A reline is the process of adding a new base of material to the tissue side of a denture so it can fit properly. This would require taking an impression of your existing denture. A reline will improve the fit of your denture but it will not change the appearance.

Why are partial dentures essential?2016-05-03T17:56:12-05:00

Each tooth in the mouth plays a particular role in distributing the bite force across the jaw. When a tooth is lost, the stress on the remaining teeth increase which can lead to other teeth being overworked. This stress can cause your remaining teeth to begin to drift out of place, become damaged, and eventually lead to the loss of more teeth. A partial denture is designed to replace the missing teeth to maintain balance. Partial dentures prolong the life span and health of natural teeth, as well as preserving normal jaw function.

Why don’t my lower denture fit as well as my upper dentures?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

The lower denture is only supported by the bone where your teeth used to be; whereas, the upper dentures create suction by covering the top palate. The bones in the mouth are constantly shrinking when we lose our teeth. This means that the denture has less bone to support itself. Sometimes some retention can be created for the lower denture if there is a large bone. Other efforts to create permanent stability would involve the placement of implants. Dental implants greatly improve the retention and function of a lower denture.

I have heard a lot of talk about dental implants lately. Can you explain?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

Denturists try to fabricate dentures that simulate teeth; however, they are not nearly as good as real teeth. There is nothing to hold the denture in place so there is a lack of stability that dramatically reduces your bite force (10% of your natural bite). Another problem is that Dentures don’t prevent bone loss due to the lack of teeth and their roots. This leads to more instability and can be potentially painful to wear dentures. Some people do manage to achieve a balance and do quite well with dentures; but as we caution our patients; dentures are not a replacement for teeth. They are a replacement for no teeth. Denture supported implants are the most advanced dentures available. Surgical screws are implanted directly into the bone similar to how real teeth work. This provides the base for the dentures to connect with. The result is a more stable denture and this technique will also stop bone loss. With implant supported dentures you will look better, feel better, and eat better.

Is implant surgery painful?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

The placing of dental implants is surprisingly comfortable during and after the procedure. There will be, of course, some discomfort and swelling after the surgery, but this is usually minimal. If necessary, the surgeon will prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics. We work with one of the best surgeons that specialize in implants; you’ll be in very capable hands.

Should I get an Immediate denture right after extraction?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

An immediate denture is a complete denture or partial denture inserted on the same day, immediately following the extraction of natural teeth. There are several advantages of an immediate denture. The most important factor is that you will never need to appear in public without teeth. It is also easier to duplicate the shape, color and arrangement of your natural teeth while some are still present in your mouth.

When an immediate denture is inserted at the time of extraction, it will act as a Band-Aid to protect the tissues and reduce bleeding. An immediate denture will allow you to establish your speech patterns early. You will not have to learn to speak without a denture in place and then later relearn to speak with a new denture. An immediate denture will also allow you to chew better than without any teeth and minimize facial distortion that may occur when teeth are removed.

If you’re comfortable with doing so, the best option is to wait until your gums heal following the extraction process before proceeding with a partial or full denture. This will be less expensive for you and we’ll have better control over the look and comfort of your new dentures.

Can I remove stains from my soft liner?2016-05-03T22:29:58-05:00

If your liner is a few years old, the stain likely can’t be removed. The Soft liner is porous and stains can permeate the material and is difficult to remove. We recommend to our patients that they be changed every few years. Discuss with your denturist to get the right guidance on whether it needs to be replaced.

Are 4 or 5 implants better?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

The number of implants is usually dependent on the quality and thickness of the bone. The stronger the bone the less implants. For example the bone in the lower jaw is typically thicker and stronger requiring less implants; while the upper bone is softer and requires more. More implants will distribute the force and less stress across the bone. In all cases you should follow the advice of your surgeon; if he/she recommends 5 implants, then you should comply with his/her recommendations. However, if there is a choice, he or she likely feels comfortable with four, but is giving you the option of five in order to provide the most stable and durable base possible. The majority of the cases I have seen have been on four implants, and they have a very high success rate.

What is a denturist?2016-05-03T18:16:28-05:00

Denturists have been serving the public in Ontario since 1974, when legislation was enacted to govern and license their services. Denturists are licensed to fabricate, repair and adjust complete dentures, partial dentures and removable implant retained dentures. A Denturist’s practice is devoted to the fabrication and repair of dentures. You can go directly to a Denturist for treatment without a referral from another health care practitioner. Denturists provide the most cost- and time-effective service. Unlike other health care practitioners who provide dentures, most Denturists’ laboratory work is done in-house on the premises and by the Denturist who sees the patient chairside. Denturists are uniquely qualified to provide quality, custom dentures. Their expertise, meticulousness and professionalism make them the best possible choice to help you drive the maximum benefit from dental prosthetics technology.

What options are available for full dentures?2016-05-03T18:10:11-05:00

There are 3 main types of dentures available:

Implant Retained: This is the best option available as this simulates your natural teeth and roots. The Denture is retained by screws that are surgically placed and fixed to the bone. They are constructed with the same materials & techniques as Precision dentures. This is the only option to avoid bone resorption that is a side of effect of losing teeth.

Precision: Dentures are constructed with the advanced materials and are made with the Precise Advanced Construction techniques available giving the best aesthetics and durability.

Standard: Dentures are constructed using standard materials (teeth can be upgraded to high quality) and construction techniques. This is the most economical option.

How often should I replace my dentures?2016-05-01T15:45:45-05:00

Dentures have a life expectancy of approximately 5 to 7 years. What are the signs that you should see a denturist and possibly replace your dentures?

  • Looseness
  • Sores
  • Lack of lip support
  • Excessive biting on the front teeth
  • Pain in your jaw
  • Worn teeth
  • Too much space between the upper and lower teeth

Wearing dentures that are ten to fifteen years old can lead to irreversible damage to your mouth and jaw. These problems can be prevented by regular maintenance and adjustments.

Do I need regular exams?2016-05-03T18:00:32-05:00

We recommend that your denture and tissues should be checked annually. Damage to the oral tissues can take place without you knowing. Early detection and elimination of tissue inflammation is important to minimize shrinkage of the supporting bone and tissue. By keeping the tissue healthy, your dentures will continue to fit correctly for longer period of time.

Your Denturist will also check for looseness of the denture due to tissue changes, stains and calculus deposits on the denture, your bite position. It’s not the dentures that change over time, it’s your mouth that is changing. By having your Denturist check your oral condition you can extend the life of your denture.

How long do dentures last?2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

Dentures don’t last forever – the average life of a denture is between 5 and 7 years. Like natural teeth, dentures will wear and stain over time. The tissues in your mouth will continually to change as you age and the dentures will need to be adjusted, rebased, or even remade. The life of your denture will depend on your own personal habits and how well they’re maintained. We recommend regular checkups so that we can work with you to maximize the life of your dentures and make any necessary adjustments for your well being.

 

Why a denturist vs. another dental professional2017-08-10T19:41:51-05:00

Simply put, a denturist specializes in dentures. It’s pretty much what we do all day, everyday. Denturists are educated, certified, licensed, and receive constant training in the field of denturism to serve patients better. They’ll listen to your needs, provide guidance on the best options, and personally handle every step in the fabrication of your denture. At our clinic we have an on-site laboratory where your denture is constructed; we’ll be there with you from the first impression to the final adjustment. A better question might be, why wouldn’t you see a denturist?

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