Resources

Denture Education

Why Do Many People Need Dentures?

There are a number of reasons why people of various ages need dentures. One in five people over the age of 55 has at least one tooth that is a denture. These days, we are living longer, which means our teeth are working longer and we are also consuming more sugar, which puts more stress on the enamel. Most people don’t floss, brush, and rinse often enough to maintain optimal oral health. As a result, teeth begin to decay, leading to extractions, gum disease, and other painful dental problems. That’s why it’s so important to brush and floss twice a day, limit sugar intake, and see a dentist regularly for checkups. If you are at the point of needing dentures, we can help. Our team will go over all of your options to determine if dentures are the best solution for you.

dentist hands with tooth model in dental clinic

Modern Denture Technology

The good news is; that those who need dentures today are receiving materials that have advanced significantly from the products available in past generations. We are now able to recreate natural-looking smiles, and each tooth can be positioned individually. The colours are more natural and comfort is better than ever before. Pratt Denture Clinic stays in the know about the latest industry breakthroughs as well.

Cleaning Your Dentures

Once you have dentures that fit well and are comfortable, it’s important to keep them clean so they maintain their appearance and prevent complications. The first step is to fill the sink with water so the dentures don’t break if you accidentally drop them. Next, rinse them thoroughly with lukewarm water—never use hot water—to remove all particles. Apply a paste and scrub gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse them again and place them in a cleanser overnight. Brush the rest of your mouth gently before reinserting the dentures and feel free to use mouthwash multiple times per day.

Denture Life Expectancy: 7-10 Years

Many people have the misconception that one pair of dentures will last for the rest of your life. In reality, the average lifespan of a set of dentures is 7 – 10 years. A reline can improve the fit of a denture, but tissue shrinkage and bone loss continue to occur throughout life. New dentures will help you avoid difficulty in chewing simple meals, irritation of soft tissue in the mouth and improve the “old” appearance of the individual.

A regular check-up can extend the life of your dentures. This is important to help maintain the general health of all of our patients, not just oral health. If you experience clicking, whistling, headaches, neck pain or draping corners of the mouth please come in for a consultation. Why take risks with your health? We’re here to help you!

Why Do Sore Spots Occur?

There are a number of reasons why sore spots occur. While the overall causes are shrinking gums and denture wear, specific reasons are varied. Certain medications can dry out your mouth which will lead to sore spots. Consuming alcohol in access dehydrates your gums, which can loosen dentures and cause sore spots. Bone chips, tissue sensitivity, and poor oral hygiene also lead to sore spots.

Did You Know

FAQs

Phone Shawnda for an in-person, no-obligation consultation at 306-773-5005.

My teeth aren’t in good shape anymore. What should I do?

Come on in and we can advise you of a treatment plan. We can even refer you to a dentist of your choice. At Pratt Denture Clinic we can restore your appearance and chewing function, and self-confidence.

I need to get teeth pulled but I can’t be without teeth for any time. What are my options?

We can manufacture an immediate temporary denture for you. The denture must be made before you see the dentist for extractions. The procedure is a bit more cost and we don’t have a chance to try them in the mouth to check the appearance and re-establish proper occlusion. Thus, the temporary denture will need to be replaced in 18-24 months. The patient has dentures in their mouth immediately after extractions. Please call for further details.

I had a consult with the denturist, and you advised me to get my teeth pulled and wait. Now what?

After over 30 years in business, we have established a treatment plan to enhance the success of your first dentures. I advise my patients to wait at least 10 days after extractions before we begin. That way the sockets have stopped bleeding and any prescriptions are completed. Because you waited, we can try wax dentures in your mouth to make sure you are happy with your new smile (size, shape, colour). You know the gums will shrink and heal so I will cover the cost of temporary relines for 18 months. After this time, the patient will then be responsible for the costs involved in re-stabilizing the dentures.

I notice when I eat now, I get food underneath. What can I do?

We will check the dentures and if they are not too old and worn out and the occlusion (the bite) is stable, we can reline your dentures. This is a same-day procedure with a morning appointment. Relines tighten the dentures after the tissues shrink. Unfortunately, tissue shrinking occurs for the rest of your life in old age. We have solutions for base dentures. Please call Shawnda for an appointment at 306-773-5005.