When you picture dentures, do you picture older adults? Most people are not aware that dentures are for anyone who is missing one or more teeth! Gentle Dentist offers a variety of dentures and partial denture solutions. We’ll provide a recommended treatment plan based on your needs, and your budget.
Continue reading for our conversation with Phil Mortenson, our expert dentures tech. With 20 years of experience, Phil is our Director of the Denture Care Center. He can answer all your questions about dentures, even before your consultation, and make you feel like part of a team when making denture decisions.
Who is a candidate for dentures?
Any person missing one or more teeth is a candidate for at least partial dentures.
What different types of dentures are there?
There are many types of dentures and partials out there. Some are flexible, some made of acrylic, and some made with metal.
What is the price range for dentures?
The price ranges from around $650-$1800, depending on what materials the dentures are made out of and how many teeth you are replacing.
How have dentures changed in the last 20 years? How has technology improved the fit and feel of dentures?
In the last 20 years there have been many advancements in dentures materials. We get a much better fit with the type of dental impressions we take. We also use softer and more flexible partials that make them a more comfortable fit. We use advancements in minimum black technology to tightly secure the dentures.
Is there anything new and interesting related to dentures?
We now have denture cloning. This is where we can copy your existing dentures and store it, in case something happens to your dentures. Also, there is a new soft liner that remains soft and doesn’t pull away from the dentures, ensuring the dentures remain in the mouth with a comfortable fit. And now there are many implants that can be placed in only a day – you leave with your dentures secured in your mouth in no time.
How do you eat with dentures?
Everyone is a little different and you definitely have to learn to eat with your dentures. It is a great feeling when you no longer are missing teeth – food won’t get trapped or packed into those once missing places.
Can I sleep in my dentures?
It is a personal preference if you want to sleep in your dentures, but it is always good to let your gums take a break.
Will people be able to tell I am wearing dentures?
People will not notice you have dentures. You can have a beautiful smile that looks very natural.
How often do the dentures need to be replaced or realigned?
Your dentures or partial should be replaced every five years due to the bacteria in the mouth that can get in the denture. Dentures that are 5 years old or older can show wear on the teeth and make it difficult to chew. Realigning is only needed when the dentures feel loose and want to fall out. This is mainly caused by bone resorption.
What is the process for getting dentures?
First you’ll need a consultation with your dentist to see whether you need full dentures or a partial. Secondly we take impressions and send them to a lab. We start by making what is called a bite block to reestablish your bite and to show the lab how your mouth comes together. Then, we take measurements to help pick the right size and shade of the teeth. We send those measurements to the lab where they will wax up dentures for you to try on. After we do the try-on and make sure everything is how we would like, such as the bite and teeth color, we return it to the lab for processing. Finally, we deliver the dentures. After that, it is up to the patient to come back for minor adjustments and to get a custom fit to their mouth. This entire process normally takes between 3 and 4 weeks.
Does it hurt to get dentures?
It can be painful getting dentures if you have had extractions or your gums are tender and sore. However, if the patient is experiencing discomfort they need to return for adjustments to make the denture fit comfortably again.
I have heard that dentures can cause bone loss. Should I be concerned?
Every case is unique. Women who have osteoporosis will experience bone loss, which can affect the dentures. Everyone can experience bone loss. And when this happens, the denture becomes loose. We will realign the dentures to make them fit again.
I know someone with dentures. Their teeth click when they talk. Will this happen to me?
The cause of clicking dentures is that they are ill-fitting and need to be realigned or refitted to the gums. This is a simple procedure that can be done at the office.
Ready to put your best smile forward? Schedule a consultation today!
