Frequently Asked Questions

Is it time to have my denture checked?

Your face, jaw and tissues change over the years, plus your dentures wear over time. At different times of your life the bone structures in your mouth can change at a faster rate.

Here are some of the signs indicating that your dentures should be checked:

• Sore or irritated tissues in your mouth
• Problems with chewing certain foods, indigestion problems
• Thinning lips or a change in facial features
• Your denture may be moving or loose when speaking or laughing
• The denture teeth or denture base has become discoloured or has an odour

These changes may happen slowly over time and often you don’t realise it’s happening.

Will new dentures make me look different?

In most cases dentures can be made to resemble your natural look and we are able to try your dentures in and make any adjustments, if required, before they are finished.

Will dentures change the way I talk?

In only some cases and depending on how much change may be needed when constructing your new dentures it can take a little while for you to adjust to your new dentures. Usually only 1-2 days.

Can I add a tooth to my present Part Denture?

 If you have had or need to have a tooth extracted, we can, in most cases add a tooth to your existing denture. Also a replacement retention clasp can be added if necessary. This procedure may be performed either before or after the tooth extraction occurs.

Can dentures be adjusted or repaired?

In most cases, we can repair a broken or cracked denture or replace a missing or broken tooth on the denture. A denture  repair or addition of a new a tooth to your existing denture (due to tooth extraction), can be done on the same day or overnight, we do what we can to limit the time you are without your denture.

How often does my denture need to be replaced?

Due to denture wear and tear and changes in your mouth structures over time, dentures should be replaced. Generally dentures should be checked every 2 years and may need to be replaced every 5-8 years.

How do I best clean my Dentures?

Dentures can easily be broken whilst being cleaned, to prevent this from happening place a towel or face washer in the basin so that if the denture slips from your hand, the towel will cushion the fall. Dentures should never be cleaned in the shower.

The lower denture is fragile and should not be held in the palm of the hand as you can easily break them if you squeeze it too hard. It is ideal to hold your denture between two fingers and the thumb while brushing.

Please, do not clean your denture with bleach as it can cause discolouring and unnatural looking teeth. Some stains may require professional cleaning. Abrasive cleaners and hard brushes can also cause unnecessary wear and tear on the plastic base resulting in the dentures becoming loose or creating area’s where food particles and stains can build up.