Frequently Asked Questions
What is a denturist?
Denturists are denture specialists; they specialize in the manufacturing of denture prosthetics. Denturists have a professional designation of Registered Denturist (RD). The word denturist means: “A person licensed to fabricate and fit dentures to the public.” The scope of practice for a denturist covers relining, rebasing, repairing, full and partial dentures, dentures over implants and partials over implants.
In British Columbia, denturists study the technical art of fabricating removable dentures. Denturists are proficient and time effective in the delivery of denture treatments. Most denturists fabricate your prosthetics on premises, ensuring quality control and care.
How much will dentures cost me?
Dentures are a custom-made, highly individual product. Every case is different. We will gladly give you information and answer questions you might have in regards to your denture needs, but speaking over the phone and having not seen you, we know very little about you and what your case may entail.
We always accept new patients. A referral isn’t necessary to book an appointment and consultations are free.
What can I expect when wearing dentures for the first time?
When you first have your dentures inserted in your mouth, you may have the sensation of fullness, have difficulty swallowing or gagging and extra saliva flow. These difficulties will gradually disappear the longer you wear your dentures.
You also may find that your dentures need time to naturally settle. Speech and eating can also be affected, but the more you practice, the more natural these functions will become.
You can expect some soreness from your new dentures, and these pressure spots can be relieved by your denturist. Your gums will be constantly changing and healing over a long period of time. Regular visits to your denturist for adjustments will be necessary.
How do I take care of my dentures?
Your dentures and mouth should be rinsed after every meal whenever possible. Dentures should be removed every day and placed in a soaking type cleanser that kills bacteria. Leaving them overnight is even better.
Do not use toothpaste on your dentures as it is very abrasive and will scratch and dull the shine. It will also wear the natural appearance of the teeth.
When dentures are left out of the mouth, they should be placed in a container filled with water to prevent drying and possible dimensional change of the denture base material.
Reline your dentures every two years to keep them fitting properly. Replace your dentures approximately every five years.
When does a denture need replacing?
Many people believe that dentures last forever! Dentures should be replaced every five years. Wearing dentures for more than five years without having them checked could be harmful to your health.
Here are some of the signs indicating that your prosthesis should be checked:
- Sore or irritated tissue
- Problems with chewing certain foods, indigestion problems
- Thinning lips, sagging mouth, a change in facial features
- Loose, falling out when speaking or laughing
- Has discoloured or has an odour
- Softening of the tissues
- Headaches, neck or ear pain
- Bone (ridge) loss
- Your partial is kept in your pocket most of the time
These changes happen gradually and are mostly imperceptible to you. Your appearance and comfort are compromised the longer you delay replacing your prosthesis.
Do I need a referral to see a denturist?
No. You do not need a referral to see a denturist.
How will I look with dentures?
Your dentures, personally created by your professional licensed denturist, will provide you with a natural looking smile. If years of aging and pronounced facial lines are starting to affect how you feel about yourself, take action and see your denturist first! With a set of professionally fitted dentures, you will see a positive difference in your appearance. Facial lines may be softened or reduced, and you may look years younger!
