Understanding full dentures
Full dentures, also known as complete dentures or even false teeth, are removable dental appliances that replace both your upper and lower natural teeth. Whether tooth loss occurred due to an accident, illness, gum disease, or simply the natural aging process, full dentures can be custom-crafted to fit snugly onto your gums, restoring both the look and function of your smile.
Losing all your natural teeth, no matter your age, can be a significant life change. It can impact your ability to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and even affect your self-esteem. But the good news is, full dentures offer a reliable and effective solution.
Advancements in technology allow us to create incredibly natural-looking complete dentures that often surpass the appearance of your original teeth. They're designed to be comfortable and stable, mimicking the natural bite and function for confident eating and speaking. You might be surprised by how many people around you wear full dentures undetected – a testament to the quality and aesthetics of modern denture technology. So next time you admire a dazzling smile, consider the possibility it might be the result of expert denture craftsmanship, allowing someone to regain their confidence and enjoy life to the fullest.
Have denture questions? We have the answers!
Types of complete dentures
The types of complete dentures available to you can depend on your unique circumstances, including your preferred aesthetic, how much you wish to pay, and the kinds of denture components most suitable for your facial structure and mouth anatomy. Here at Northern Rivers Denture Clinic you can rely on our oral health professionals to advise you on all of these aspects.
Budget
- Standard acrylic
- Good tooth quality - Ivoclar Vivadent
- Heat cure compression processing system
- Most affordable
From $1,450
or $98 /fortnight*
*6 month interest free payment plan
with National Denture Plan
Standard
- High impact acrylic
- Better tooth quality - Vitapan Plus
- Heat cure compression processing system
- Customised tooth arrangement
Premium
- High impact acrylic
- Best tooth quality - Vita Physiodens
- Ivoclar Ivobase Injection system
- Customised tooth arrangement
- Unmatched fit, comfort, and security
- Material is lightweight and odour resistant
- Highly personalised
A natural smile, secured: Exploring implant-retained dentures
Implant retained dentures offer a revolutionary alternative to conventional dentures like acrylic or chrome cobalt dentures. They provide a natural-looking and highly functional solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both your smile and your confidence.
Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums and may slip or become loose, implant-retained dentures (also known as denture-retained implants or simply denture implants) are secured in the mouth by surgically placed titanium posts. These posts act as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable and long-lasting foundation for your dentures.
Implant-retained dentures offer numerous advantages over conventional options. They provide superior stability and security, eliminating the worry of slipping or clicking during speaking or eating. This allows you to enjoy a wider variety of foods with confidence, and to converse freely without self-consciousness.
Interested in learning more about dental implants and their potential benefits for you? Visit our dedicated implant-retained denture page for detailed information on dental implant costs, treatment options, and the procedures involved. Our experienced dental prosthetists are happy to answer your questions and discuss whether implant-retained dentures are the right solution for your unique needs.
Replacing upper and lower teeth: Understanding your options
When faced with significant tooth loss, full dentures offer a reliable solution for restoring both aesthetics and functionality. However, the specific type of full denture you'll need may vary depending on the situation. Here's a breakdown of upper and lower full dentures to help you understand your options:
Full upper dentures: The power of suction
A full upper denture is designed to replace all your upper teeth and replicate the natural curvature of your dental arch. This unique shape plays a critical role in denture stability. The covered upper palate structure creates a natural suction effect, which helps the denture stay securely in place during speaking, eating, and smiling. This suction is particularly important for confident biting and chewing, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
Full lower dentures: Achieving confidence with a snug fit
A full lower denture also mirrors the shape of your dental arch, but with a distinct U-shaped curve to accommodate your tongue and salivary glands. While the lack of a palate structure in the lower jaw typically means less suction compared to upper dentures, a well-crafted and snug-fitting lower denture can still provide excellent stability and confidence.
Creating the perfect fit with complete dentures
The key to a comfortable and secure fit for both upper and lower dentures lies in their precise design and construction. At our Tweed Heads denture clinic, we prioritise a personalised approach, ensuring your dentures are customised to your unique anatomy for optimal comfort and function.
The next step: Finding the right solution
Choosing the right full denture type depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you require both upper and lower dentures, or just one of these, we're here to guide you through the process. During your free consultation, we'll discuss your specific situation, answer any questions you may have, and help you determine the best denture solution for optimal confidence.
Denture concerns? Get expert advice today.
Smile transformation: Bringing confidence back!
See the remarkable difference our complete dentures can make! This patient received standard upper and lower dentures, crafted with high-quality Vitapan Physiodens 3D teeth in a natural A1 shade. Our skilled dental prosthetists meticulously matched the tooth shape to the patient's facial structure and natural mouth anatomy, resulting in a stunning and rejuvenated smile. It's a testament to the transformative power of dentures, restoring not just function, but also confidence!
How are full dentures held in place?
While full dentures don't rely on remaining teeth for direct support, they stay securely in place through a combination of factors. The custom-made acrylic base is designed to fit the contours of your mouth, creating natural suction. This suction helps hold the denture in place during speaking and eating. Additionally, the shape and placement of the denture can utilise the natural undercuts in your gums and jaw for added stability.
Can dentures be whitened?
While full dentures themselves aren't susceptible to staining like natural teeth, they can accumulate surface discolorations over time from food and beverages. While there are some home remedies advertised for whitening dentures, these methods can be abrasive and damage the denture material.
For safe and effective whitening of your full dentures, professional cleaning is recommended. Your dental prosthetist can use specialised cleaning solutions and techniques to remove stains and restore the original appearance of your dentures. This type of professional cleaning also helps maintain good oral hygiene and overall mouth health.
The perfect fit: The key to stable complete dentures
A full denture's stability relies heavily on two factors: natural suction and the support of your facial muscles. While saliva production and oral anatomy can influence suction levels from person to person, a well-crafted denture plays a crucial role. A snug-fitting denture minimises movement and ensures a secure placement within your mouth, fostering ease and comfort throughout the day.
Crafting your new smile: Taking the first step
Your journey to a confident smile begins with a free, no-obligation consultation at our Tweed Heads denture clinic. We understand getting dentures can be a personal decision, and it's important for you to feel comfortable and have trust in our team. This initial consultation allows you to meet the dental prosthetist who will be crafting your new smile.
To help guide the process, feel free to bring along photos of yourself with your natural teeth. During the consultation, your expectations for your new dentures will be discussed in detail. We also have a large sample display showcasing different replacement options and their aesthetics.
Following the consultation, you'll receive a comprehensive treatment plan and appointment schedule, allowing you to plan ahead and be informed every step of the way.
How many appointments will I have?
Generally, you will require four appointments over a three week period. If you have special requirements it could take a little longer.
Four visits to confidence: Your appointment schedule
We understand that tooth removal might be necessary before denture creation. Your dentist and our dental prosthetist will collaborate to determine the best approach for your immediate and long-term needs. This consultation will involve discussing whether you'll require an immediate denture placed right after extraction, or if it's best to wait for your gum tissue to heal first.
During your second appointment, our prosthetist will take precise impressions of your mouth using a comfortable, moldable material. This captures the unique contours of your jaw and gums, ensuring a perfect fit. We'll also determine your optimal bite registration using a wax block. This step is crucial for natural-looking dentures that function flawlessly. Here's where you get to personalise your smile! You'll have the opportunity to discuss your preferred tooth shape and colour with your prosthetist.
Get ready to see your new smile take shape! At the third appointment, your prosthetist will carefully insert a wax model of your dentures complete with teeth. This "try-in" session allows you to assess the fit and aesthetics of your future dentures. Feel free to bring a supportive friend or family member for this exciting stage. Together, you can provide feedback to ensure your final dentures exceed expectations.
The final appointment marks the completion of your denture journey! Your prosthetist will expertly fit your brand new dentures, ensuring optimal comfort and stability. You'll also receive comprehensive care instructions to maintain the beauty and functionality of your dentures. But you're not on your own. We provide ongoing support for years to come.
Creating your ideal smile is a shared journey
Crafting a successful smile with dentures requires teamwork. Our skilled dental prosthetists meticulously evaluate your needs and custom-make complete dentures tailored to your unique anatomy. This level of customisation plays a vital role in achieving the optimal outcome.
However, a successful denture journey is a two-way street. Your commitment to the process is crucial. It may require some patience and perseverance on your part as you adjust to your new dentures. Here at Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, we empathise with that. Our understanding dental prosthetists are here to provide support, guidance, and adjustments as needed to ensure your complete satisfaction. We'll work together to build a beautiful, comfortable smile that lets you shine with confidence.
Navigating dentures? We're here to guide you.
Working together for a seamless transition
At Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, we understand that transitioning to a complete denture can be an adjustment. That's why we're committed to making the process as smooth and successful as possible for you. After all, a confident smile and your satisfaction are our top priorities.
Minor adjustments: Ensuring a perfect fit
It's important to remember that any initial challenges you encounter are often temporary and easily addressed. While some patients experience a minimal need for adjustments, others may need minor refinements after their initial fitting. This is completely normal and included in the cost of treatment.
Dentures require time to "settle" comfortably into your healing gums, which typically takes around four weeks. Whether you're receiving upper and lower dentures or a full set, this adjustment period can require some patience on your part. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Addressing sore gums
Sore gums or minor discomfort after denture placement are not uncommon. Fortunately, these can usually be resolved through simple adjustments by our skilled dental prosthetists.
Speaking and eating with confidence
Some patients initially report feeling a slight fullness in their mouths, which might affect their speech or ability to eat certain foods. This is typically a temporary sensation. As your mouth adjusts to your new complete denture, these concerns will subside. You'll soon be speaking clearly, eating confidently, and enjoying your favorite foods once again.
Denture Care
Caring for your new dentures
Emergency Dentures
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a full set of dentures cost in Australia?
The cost of a full set of dentures in Australia can vary depending on factors like materials and complexity, but generally falls within the range of $2,700 to $5,500. Some government vouchers and dental insurance plans can help offset these costs.
How long does it take to get used to wearing full dentures?
This is a common concern for many patients. The adjustment period for full dentures can vary depending on the individual, but it typically takes several weeks to feel comfortable eating and speaking with them. Your dental prosthetist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your dentures and ease the adjustment process.
Will I be able to eat normally with dentures?
While it may take some practice, most people can eventually eat most foods with dentures. It's important to start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder textures as you become accustomed to your dentures. Chewing techniques might also need some adjustment.
How do I clean and care for my dentures?
Proper cleaning and care are essential for maintaining good oral health and extending the lifespan of your dentures. This typically involves brushing your dentures daily with a soft toothbrush and denture cleanser, soaking them overnight in a denture solution, and cleaning your mouth thoroughly. Your dental prosthetist will provide specific cleaning instructions based on your dentures and oral hygiene needs.
Call (07) 5536 4241
Free 30-minute Consultation
We believe in informed decisions. That's why we offer free 30-minute consultations to all our patients, new and existing. During this no-pressure appointment, we'll discuss your denture needs and goals, provide a personalised treatment plan and clear cost estimate, with no obligation to proceed. We want you to feel comfortable and empowered.
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