FAQs
Check out Our Denture FAQs
At Port Coquitlam Denture Clinic that serves the Tri-Cities area, we provide various denture tips and proper guidance to improve your overall oral health. We receive many questions from our patients and you may find someone else has the same questions as you. We always encourage you to keep this page bookmarked so that you can come back for future references. If you’ve any questions specific to your needs, call us today!
Here you can find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about your new dentures.
Why Bother with Dentures?
If you’re worried about your missing or lost teeth, replacing them has substantial benefits for your oral health and appearance. For example, a complete denture provides support for cheeks and lips, replacing your natural teeth. Without dentures, one may look older and have reduced ability to eat, speak, and smile.
What Is a Denture?
Denture is an appliance that is worn to replace your lost or missing teeth. It helps you enjoy a healthy diet and smile with confidence. There are different types of dentures, including conventional dentures, immediate dentures, and partial dentures.
What Are Dentures Made Of?
Dentures are made of acrylic and modified to match your natural teeth. A denture’s base or plate is made of either metal (vitallium) or acrylic.
Will Dentures Make Me Look Different?
Dentures are made to closely match your natural teeth. However, a little change in appearance can be noticed. You can even improve the look of your smile and the appearance of your face with modern dentures.
Will I Be Able to Eat with Dentures?
Eating will take a little practice. We always suggest you to start with soft foods that are cut into small pieces. To prevent your denture from moving, you are supposed to chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time. You can add other foods to your normal healthy diet when you become more used to your denture.
What Will Dentures Feel Like?
New dentures may feel uncomfortable for a few weeks until you get accustomed to them. You may feel that they are loose while your tongue and cheek muscles learn to keep them in place. If you experience any minor irritation or soreness during this period, it is not unusual. Saliva flow may increase temporarily. These issues should diminish, as you get accustomed to the dentures. If these still continue, consult our denturist.
How Should I Take Care of My Dentures?
The general rule is brush, soak, and brush. In case you drop your dentures, always clean them over a bowl of water or a folded towel. Brush your dentures before soaking in order to remove any food debris. The use of an effervescent denture cleaner will remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturers’ instructions before brushing the dentures again, as you would your own teeth. Be careful not to scrub too hard or create grooves in the surface. Most denturists suggest using a small to medium-headed toothbrush and toothpaste. Make sure you clean all the surfaces of the dentures, including the one which comes into contact with your gums. This is especially important in case you use any kind of denture fixative. Remember to have your denture cleaned by our denturist if you notice a buildup of stains or scale. It is extremely important to have your dentures professionally polished and cleaned on a regular basis.
Will My Dentures Need to Be Replaced?
Yes. Over a period of time, dentures will need to be replaced due to normal wear or a change in the shape of your mouth. Gum ridges can shrink rapidly, causing jaws to align differently. Loose dentures can cause health issues, including irritation and soreness. They can also make eating and speaking more difficult. It is always important to replace poorly fitted dentures before they cause major problems. Most of the standard dentures require refitting or replacement after 5 years.
What Are Implants?
Implants are permanent fixtures of pure titanium that are anchored to the jawbone, allowing dentures to be securely fitted in place. It helps you enjoy the comfort needed for the lifestyle of your choice.
How Do I Care for My Implants?
Just like your teeth, your dental implants require regular brushing, flossing, and periodic implant checkups. Our denturists will make sure that your implants are in good condition and will propose professional cleaning, if needed.
Are There Any Financing Options?
We offer a variety of financing options to make dentures affordable for every patient. We also accept dental insurance plans for direct billing. Dental implants and dentures are tax deductible and financing options are available.
What Are the Costs for Dental Implants?
We can inform you of the total cost of your dentures and dental implants at your initial consultation, depending on your specific needs.
Must I Do Anything Special to Care for My Mouth?
Yes. Even with complete dentures, it’s very important to take good care of your mouth. We always suggest you brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush every morning and evening. If you’re a partial denture wearer, you still need to brush your teeth thoroughly every day to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Will Dentures Change How I Speak?
Yes. Pronouncing certain words will take a little practice; reading aloud and repeating those words will help. If you find your dentures slip when you smile, laugh, or cough, you can reposition the denture by swallowing or gently biting down. It this still continues, consult our denturist.
How Long Should I Wear My Dentures?
During the first few days, our denturist will advise you to wear them for most of the time, including your time of sleep. After the initial adjustment is made, you can remove them before going to sleep. This will help your gums to rest and promote oral health.
Should I Use a Denture Fixative?
Usually, it should not be necessary, because dentures are custom made to fit your mouth. But, after a period of time, they may become loose and a fixative can be used for a short time before having them replaced.