AT EMINENT DENTAL WELLNESS WE HAVE AN ON-SITE DENTAL LABORATORY. THIS ALLOWS US TO PROVIDE SAME DAY DENTURES AND REPAIRS CAN BE DONE WHILE YOU WAIT!

A denture is a removable appliance used to replace missing teeth and its surrounding tissue.

Two types of dentures are available:

• Complete dentures – are used when all teeth are missing in either one or both dental arches.
• Partial dentures – are used when some of the natural teeth are missing.

Complete dentures:

Can be either be:

• Conventional dentures:
  • Placed in the mouth 6- 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed and the gum and bone tissue has undergone most of its healing.
• Immediate denture
  • The dentures are made in advance and placed as soon as the teeth are removed.
  • This means you do not have to be without teeth during the healing period.
  • However, bone and gums shrink over time, especially during the first few weeks after the teeth have been removed.
  • Therefore, a disadvantage of immediate dentures compared to conventional dentures is that they require more adjustments to fit properly during the healing process and generally should only be considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made.

Partial dentures:

A removable partial denture consists of replacement teeth embedded into a pink or gum -coloured plastic base, which is sometimes connected to a metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth.

Partial dentures are used to replace as little as one tooth to more than ten teeth in an arch.

A partial denture not only replaces missing teeth but also prevents other teeth from drifting or over errupting into the missing tooth spaces.

Are there alternatives to Dentures?

Yes, dental implants can replace a missing tooth or can be placed to support a bridge, replacing more than one tooth.

Implants and bridges more closely resemble the feeling of real teeth, but the cost of implants may be a factor.

Dental implants are fast becoming the alternative to dentures but not everyone is a candidate for implants.

Dental implants may also be used to support dentures, offering more stability and comfort for complete dentures.

Consult the dentist for advice about implants.

How dentures are made:

The denture making process can take a few weeks and several appointments. At Eminent Dental Wellness we have the convenience of an on-site dental laboratory. The on-site laboratory makes it possible to complete a new set of dentures within a day. Once the dentist has determined the best option for you, the general steps are to:

1. Make a series of impressions of your jaw to help the lab determine your jaw relationship.
2. Create models, wax forms in the exact shape and position of the denture to be made. You will “try” this model several times and the denture will be assessed for colour, shape and fit before the final denture is cast.
3. Cast a final denture.
4. Adjustments will be made as necessary.

What do new dentures feel like?

New dentures may feel strange or loose for a few weeks until the muscles of the cheeks and tongue get use to the denture and learn to keep it in place.

If you experience minor irritation, soreness and an increase in salivary flow, don’t be alarmed, this is not unusual for new dentures. If it does not subside, feel free to contact your dentist.

Will dentures make me look different?

Your dentures are made to closely resemble your natural teeth, so you will notice small changes in your appearance. Dentures may even improve your smile and improve your facial appearance.

Will eating with new dentures be difficult?

Eating with new dentures will take a little practice and may be uncomfortable for some wearers for a few weeks.

To help you get use to new dentures, start with soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth. As you get use to your dentures, add other food until you can return to a normal diet.

Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. Avoid foods that are extremely sticky or hard. You should also avoid chewing gum while wearing dentures.

Will dentures change how I speak?

With new dentures, you may have difficulty pronouncing certain words. If so, practice by saying the difficult words out loud. With practice and with time you will become accustomed to speaking properly with dentures.

Are dentures worn 24 Hours a day?

Dentures should be removed at night before you go to bed. This allows the gum tissue to rest and allows normal stimulation and cleansing by the tongue and saliva. The denture can be put back in the mouth in the morning.