Ask The Doctor

Our Doctors and Denture Professionals are here to help you in any way that we can. If you would like more information on our services or if you have other questions, or if you would like to schedule a complimentary examination and consultation, please call us today. We look forward to helping create your new smile!

What are the different types of dentures?

There are three types we will review: An "Immediate Denture" is made when a patient requires minimal teeth to be extracted before a denture can be placed. The denture is fabricated prior to the extraction of natural teeth, and is placed in the mouth immediately upon the removal of natural teeth. The immediate denture will require a permanent reline approximately six months afterwards; due to the shrinkage of gum tissue and bone that will occur after the natural teeth are removed. An "Interim Denture" is made when a patient requires multiple teeth to be extracted before a denture can be placed. The denture is fabricated prior to the extraction of natural teeth, and is placed in the mouth immediately upon the removal of natural teeth. The interim denture will require replacement approximately six months afterwards; due to the significant shrinkage of gum tissue and bone that will occur after the natural teeth are removed. A "Conventional Denture" is made to replace an already existing complete denture or partial denture and if there are no natural teeth to be extracted.

When do I need new dentures or partial dentures?

Each individual's denture and partial denture needs are different. Dentures and partial dentures may require replacing when they become loose or show significant wear to the denture teeth. Dentures and partial dentures become loose or ill-fitting due to the natural changes occurring in the mouth as you age. The bone and gum tissue that support the appliances can recede or shrink, causing the jaws to align differently and the appliance to fit less securely. A loose denture or partial denture can also make chewing more difficult and may change your appearance. It is important to replace worn-down or poorly-fitting dentures or partial dentures before they cause problems. On average, most Dentists recommend replacing your dentures or partial dentures every 5-7 years.

What is a reline and how do I know if I need one?

A reline is the re-basing of the inside area of the denture that contacts the gum tissue. A reline is recommended when the denture is ill-fitting or loose and will help the patient gain better retention and fit, however, a reline will not correct any bite problems or existing wear of the denture teeth. On average, most Dentists recommend a reline to your denture or partial denture every 2-5 years.

Will I be able to eat and speak with my new dentures or partial dentures?

While dentures and partial dentures can provide individuals with years of reasonable service and function, they are merely a substitute for your natural teeth and not a replacement. Dentures are about 25% as efficient and effective as your natural teeth. Much practice is needed to learn to eat, speak and function with your new denture or partial denture. Every patient is a unique individual, and therefore each patient will have a different rate of healing, adaptation and tolerance.

What is the difference between porcelain teeth and plastic teeth? Is one better than the other?

There are arguments for both, however, most dental health professionals will argue that porcelain teeth tend to transmit the majority of impact of the biting force to the alveolar ridges, resulting in accelerated bone loss in the patient, while plastic teeth are more forgiving of excessive forces such as clenching, grinding, and "clacking" teeth, and does not accelerate bone loss in patients. In the past, porcelain teeth were preferred because of their durability and esthetics. However, due to the advancements in biomaterials used today, the majority of dental health care providers use durable and esthetically pleasing plastic teeth in the fabrication of dentures or partial dentures.

How long does it take to make dentures and partial dentures?

Each individual treatment plan will vary depending on each patient's needs. However, in most cases the fabrication process takes approximately 3-4 appointments over a 3-4 week time period.

My denture keeps breaking and I keep having to have it repaired — what's wrong?

As we age the gum tissue and the bone beneath begin to shrink and resorb. Over time, the shrinkage may be enough so that the dentures do not align properly, causing uneven pressure or force on the denture that result in the continuing problem. The current difficulty with your denture or partial denture may be an indication that things have changed significantly within your mouth since the denture was made or last serviced, and may be an indication that new dentures or another type of service is needed.

I think I need all of my teeth pulled and dentures made, will I ever have to go without any teeth in my mouth?

If a patient requires all or most of their teeth to be extracted before dentures can be placed, we are able to fabricate the denture ahead of time so that it is immediately placed in the mouth after the natural teeth are extracted, therefore the patient is never without teeth.

How often should I have my dentures checked?

Regular checkups are important, even if you wear dentures. The Dentist will examine your mouth to see that your denture is fitting properly, and the Dentist will also check your mouth for soreness, inflammation or oral diseases such as cancer. Denture check-ups should be completed once every 12 months to help ensure the patient's good oral health.