Dentures

New Dentures

Full Dentures

A full denture replaces all of the natural teeth and the associated tissues and is supported by the gums. Full dentures are removable but can also be retained by implants inserted by a Dental Surgeon for better stability and function. Once the implants are in place your Dental Prosthetist can fit the dentures over the implants.

Full Lower Dentures – Something you should know.

It can be quite a confusing time when you first start the process of having full dentures made.

The lower full denture is particularly problematic because of the anatomy of the lower jaw and tongue. Unlike the upper full denture that achieves suction the lower full denture can often move around when eating or talking causing distress.

Whether you are an experienced denture wearer looking to have a new set or if you are new to denture wearing there is a variety of different construction techniques being marketed as a way to solve this problem.

However, no two mouths are the same and therefore no one system works for everyone. Over the decades of running a successful denture clinic we have attempted to salvage many dentures made under a rigid construction system by other practitioners which did not work for that individual.

The only definitive way of getting the optimum outcome is to see a Dental Prosthetist who is highly skilled at assessing each patient’s distinct oral cavity and using the technique that will work for them. This involves skills, not only in the more practical laboratory elements of construction, but more importantly in having an innate ‘eye’ for individual design, appearance and eating function. Well balanced, individualised design, considering both the upper and lower jaw combined anatomy and function, is the tried and true way of ensuring that you can successfully wear a lower full denture.

At Dentures Direct Ballina we do not rely on just one system of construction over another as our focus is on our patients and what will work for them. We pride ourselves in designing aesthetically pleasing, well-fitting and functionally successful dentures that are as unique as you are.


Partial Dentures

A partial denture is also a removable appliance replacing one or more missing natural teeth and associated tissues. It is supported by the natural remaining teeth and gums and can be made with acrylic in the same way as a full denture or with a cast metal framework. A partial denture is a very cost effective and successful way to replace missing teeth without going to the expense of having implants

Denture Repairs

Dentures Direct Ballina is dedicated to making your denture repairs in Ballina as affordable and as fast as possible that’s why we offer same day service for repairs wherever possible. Denture breakage can be due to underlying problems including age, worn teeth, poor fit or accidents. So as part of our repair process we offer a free assessment of your denture to ensure that you are getting optimum function. Remember to never repair dentures with super glue yourself as it is poisonous and damages your dentures.

Denture Relines

Over time there are often tissue changes in the mouth causing the gums to resorb and shrink. This can be due to many factors such as loss of weight, loss of bone, loss of teeth, aging or illness and these tissue changes compromise the fit and function of the denture. A reline involves taking an impression of your existing denture and adding new base material to the gum surface of the denture to refit it firmly in the mouth. A reline does not change the appearance of the denture in any way. It is recommended that dentures are relined every few years to ensure good function and to keep gums healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a Dental Prosthetist differ from dentists?
A Dental Prosthetist is a highly qualified and skilled dental professional who works exclusively in the area of constructing and fitting all types of dentures direct to the public. Dentists do not make dentures, they ony fit dentures. Dentist’s have your denture constructed at a commercial laboratory by someone who has never seen you or met you. When you make an appointment with our Dental Prosthetist to have a denture made, they will be involved personally in every stage including any after care ensuring that your denture is ideal for your individual needs.
How different are dentures to having your own teeth?
Well-designed dentures resemble your natural teeth and you will be able to speak and chew with confidence. It will not be obvious to anyone else that you are a denture wearer. To help us in constructing a denture that achieves this at your first denture appointment we take a photograph of you smiling, assess your speech patterns and, with your input, choose the shape and colour of the teeth to be used.
What types of dentures are available?
Dentures are removable devices constructed to replace missing teeth for functional, cosmetic and oral health reasons. The two main types of dentures are complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. If teeth are to be extracted, depending on individual circumstances, an immediate denture may be constructed prior to tooth extraction. The denture is then placed into the mouth at the time of the extraction so that you never have to be without teeth.
Is it okay to sleep with your dentures in?
While you can sleep with your dentures in if you prefer it is a good idea to leave them out for at least 8 hours overnight to give relief to the tissues supporting your denture.
Are dentures expensive
As every individual’s needs differ your Dental Prosthetist will inform you of all your treatment options and the costs involved. Dentures Direct Ballina offers a no obligation initial consultation to determine an exact quote before any bookings are made to proceed with the construction and fitting of a denture. If you consider the cost of new dentures over the years of use most dentures cost less than a cup of coffee a week.
How do I keep my dentures clean?
Dentures should be regularly cleaned with a non-abrasive denture cleaner and soft bristled brush. Do not use toothpaste as the abrasive agents in toothpaste can cause microscopic scratches where bacteria and stains can build-up. The best way to clean your denture is either holding them over a sink filled with water or over a folded towel to save them from being damaged if you accidently drop them. Dentures don’t bounce! If your denture becomes too stained for home cleaning methods your Dental Prosthetist can clean them in an ultra-sonic cleaner which will restore them to their original condition.

Please take a look at our Brochure for more details and information on your new dentures.