Dentures are removable replacements for your missing teeth, designed to look and function like your own natural teeth and surrounding gum tissues. They are generally made from an ultramodern acrylic material which is high-strength and durable.
Comfortable natural-looking dentures are a real benefit to those who no longer possess their natural teeth but for whom socializing and showing a confident smile is very important.
Our modern knowledge and techniques will ensure that dentures from Bulleen Plaza Dental look great and feel comfortable, allowing patients to eat with confidence. We offer variety of dentures to suit most budgets.
If you have several missing teeth, possibly from some time ago, then you will benefit from having dentures as they will provide support for your cheeks and lips. Dentures can reduce the amount of lines and wrinkles around your face, this can literally take years off your face.
TYPES OF DENTURES:
Dentures are of three types: Complete Dentures, Partial Dentures and Implant Supported Dentures.
Complete dentures
The dentures that replace all the teeth are known as Complete Dentures and they rest on the gums that cover the jawbones. The stability and retention of these dentures can be improved by attaching them to Dental Implants. Candidates for complete dentures have lost most or all of their teeth. You can have a full denture on your upper or lower jaw, or both. Complete dentures are also called “conventional” dentures.
Partial Dentures
Dentures that replace some but not all of the teeth are known as Partial Dentures. They attach to the teeth that are still present and cover and rest on the gums and bone where the teeth are missing. Dental Implants can also be used to stabilise partial dentures. A partial denture fitted in the spaces created by missing teeth prevents other teeth from changing position. A partial denture is suitable for those who have some natural teeth remaining.
Replacing missing teeth is very good for your appearance as well as your health. A denture will help you look better by providing the support that your cheeks and lips need. Without this support, sagging facial muscles can make a person look older. At Bulleen Plaza Dental each set of dentures is personalised to your gums, lips, tongue and your whole mouth. Having good-looking teeth also gives you more confidence and freedom to smile.
What are the benefits of dentures?
- Look and feel younger – Missing teeth can cause your face to take on a sunken cheek appearance. Dentures can reverse this by bringing shape and definition back into your cheeks thus giving you the confidence to smile.
- Enjoy advances in dental technology – Dentures are now made from different and better materials, meaning an improved comfort and fit.
- Fully functioning – Your new set of teeth will be hassle-free and easy to maintain. You’ll be able to eat and drink as normal, and you can expect fewer visits to the dentist over time. Dentures can enhance your overall physical health, particularly when they allow you to chew foods properly, thus providing you with all the nutrients you need.
- Made to measure – Your dentures will be made to match the measurements of your mouth exactly. Our dentists at Bulleen Plaza Dental will take a mould of your teeth and gums, measure your jaw, and possibly use an X-ray.
- The confidence to smile naturally – From a cosmetic perspective, dentures will greatly enhance your appearance. You can enjoy a straighter smile and the treatment will fill in spaces where there were once gaps. If you had problems with discolouration, dentures can be made whiter than the original teeth, plus your new radiant smile will brighten your whole face. Say goodbye to smiling with your mouth shut due to embarrassment!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q. What will dentures feel like?
New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place. It is not unusual to experience minor irritation and soreness initially. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases. These problems should diminish with wear.
Q. Can my dentures become stained?
Just like real teeth, dentures can become stained by tea, coffee, and red wine if you drink these things frequently. Smoking can also lead to denture staining. To preserve your set of pearly white dentures for as long as possible, minimize your consumption of staining drinks and, if you’re a smoker, consider quitting. Tobacco use can also contribute to gum disease and mouth cancer, so there will be lots of benefits to your oral health when you wave goodbye to cigarettes.
Q. My dentures are a little uncomfortable, is that normal?
It’s not normal to put up with pain from dentures, or to have them move around in your mouth rather than staying securely in place. Unfortunately, many people think a little discomfort is a normal aspect of wearing dentures, but there’s no need to put up with it. If, for example, you have very sensitive gums, you can choose dentures with soft linings to prevent irritation. After your new denture is fitted, you should expect to visit your dentist several times over several weeks for small modifications to be made to your new denture to ensure it fits you comfortably.
Q. Can I repair my own dentures?
There are lots of over-the-counter denture repair kits on the market, but ultimately they often only cause additional damage. Once your dentures have become damaged, they will begin to weaken and will only deteriorate further, making professional repairs even more difficult.
Q. Will I be able to eat with my dentures?
Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet. Be cautious with hot food/drink or hard sharp-edged bones or shells.
Q. Will dentures change how I speak?
Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out aloud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures “click” while you’re talking, speak slowly. You may find that you dentures occasionally slip out slightly when you cough, laugh or smile. Reposition them by biting down and swallowing. Soon you will be able to cope very well with your new dentures.
Q. How do I take care of my dentures?
Dentures are very delicate and may break if dropped even only a few inches. Stand over a folded towel or basin of water when handling dentures for cleaning. Like natural teeth, dentures must be brushed daily to remove food deposits and plaque. A tooth/ denture brush with soft bristles can be used, as hard-bristles brushes can damage the dentures. Some denture wearers use hand soap and mild dishwashing liquid to clean their dentures. More advanced denture creams and tables are widely available. Avoid using other household product cleaners, which may be too abrasive or even toxic.
If you have any specific question about Dentures please call our friendly team at Bulleen Plaza Dental on 03 9852 2234.