Denture Facts

12 Denture Facts

Whether you’re seeking information about dentures for a loved one or for yourself, it’s important that you know the facts:

Fact 1:

Dentures don’t last forever.

Nothing does. And while it’s true that the modern denture is more durable than ever before, you can still break a tooth or the denture base by simply dropping them a few inches. Even with painstaking care, denture teeth can lose their natural appearance and chewing ability due to the cumulative effects of chewing, brushing and age. Plus, your mouth changes over time. These gradual changes, coupled with the gradual changes in your denture, explain why you should visit Parkland Denture Clinic regularly. We will look for:

• looseness caused by tissue changes
• bad odor caused by absorption of fluid and bacteria
• colour change due to age or reaction to mouth fluids
• stains and calculus deposits resulting from mouth fluids.

As a result, Parkland Denture Clinic recommends replacing or refitting your dentures every 5 to 7 years.

Fact 2:

No one has to know you’re wearing dentures.

No one wants a denture that looks like a “denture.” Unlike old-fashioned dentures, which may look unnatural, today’s denture can be made just for you, allowing you to look and feel better without anyone knowing why. We will use our experience and knowledge to select and arrange teeth in a manner that creates the warm, natural smile you seek. Dentures help you to lose that sunken look in your lower face, as well as the wrinkled appearance around your mouth. You’ll likely look younger and smile more often.

Fact 3:

Denture wearers can eat more normally.

In many cases, denture-wearers discover they can once again eat the foods they love. While not all denture wearers can eat everything they would like, many have few restrictions in their diets. Moreover, they chew more thoroughly, leading to improved digestion and nutrition. Properly fitting dentures may actually encourage you to eat a more varied and well balanced diet, further improving your overall health.

Fact 4:

Denture wearers can speak more clearly.

The ability to speak clearly depends on subtle interactions involving your tongue, teeth, lips, cheeks and the roof of your mouth. A denture that’s properly fitted and contoured allows all five components to work together properly.

Fact 5:

Denture adhesives can play a role in your dentures fit and comfort.

Dentures are made to fit precisely and usually do not require regular use of an adhesive for comfort. That said, even people with properly fitting dentures may find an adhesive product provides extra security and peace of mind, especially for important occasions. Many people assert that adhesives increase their performance of even the best-fitting dentures. However, if your dentures begin to feel too loose and you are using more adhesives than before, see Parkland Denture Clinic immediately.

Fact 6:

Over-the-counter and prescription medications can affect dentures.

Drugs can affect denture fit and wearability. For example, certain medications can reduce the supply of saliva in your mouth, making it difficult to swallow or to chew. Be sure to let us know of any medications you may be taking regularly – or even occasionally.

Fact 7:

Don’t assume regular denture care is too costly.

Before deciding that oral examinations and regular denture care are too costly, discuss the situation with us. Ask about charges for denture adjustments, repairs and possible replacement, we DO NOT charge for consultations! Your oral health is a vital part of your overall health.

Fact 8:

Never try to make your own denture repairs.

Do not try to adjust or repair your dentures yourself. Denture self-repair can cause irreparable damage and may result in the need for a new denture. Do-it-yourself liners are bulky and cause increased pressure on the jaw and more rapid loss of jawbone, and they can irritate the soft tissues of your mouth.

Fact 9:

With planning, denture corrections can often be made in one day.

Parkland Denture Clinic offers same day hard and soft relines and 1 hour denture repair. If you let us know you are in need of a reline or repair, the corrections can often be made within the same day.

Fact 10:

Don’t avoid replacing your denture just because you don’t want to go through another long adjustment period.

With your first denture, you learned the basics – from eating and speaking, to simply wearing them. While there will be a period of adjustment with a replacement denture, it is usually shorter – and easier – than the first time. Regardless, it’s important that you do it. Prolonged use of ill-fitting dentures can irritate the gums, tongue and cheek, and even cause the ridges of your mouth to shrink to the point where it is almost impossible to fit you with normal dentures. Your ability to chew may decrease and your face may acquire deep aging lines and wrinkles. When you look at the big picture, the temporary adjustment period is a small price to pay.

Fact 11:

Most dental insurance policies will pay for new dentures every 5 years.

Parkland Denture Clinic will bill directly to your insurance company when necessary. If you do not have denture insurance, we offer numerous “in house” financing options.

Fact 12:

All dentures are not created equal. If you look for the lowest price, you’ll get what you pay for.

Self-fitting dentures, which are sometimes offered for “discount” prices, will not fit as well, or be as well prepared, and therefore can lead to serious health problems.There are many different qualities of teeth, and materials that are used in the fabrication of your dentures. The quality of these materials directly influence the cost and ultimately the quality of your finished dentures. Parkland Denture Clinic will ensure your denture features premium long-wearing, low-staining teeth and high impact acrylic denture base which will provide a high quality denture that will last and maintain chewing efficiency for many years.