Your Dentures - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought liners?

You should never attempt to reline your dentures; you could seriously damage both your dentures and your mouth. If you have problems, see your Dental Prosthetist who is trained to recognise and treat these problems quickly and effectively. Adhesive powders and pastes may be used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Dental Prosthetists and You?

Any loss of your natural teeth is a regrettable occurrence. Fortunately, it is one which can be remedied with excellent results. Today's Dental Prosthetists apply all their skill and knowledge to provide you with a substitute, which perfectly suits both the shape of your mouth and your smile one that, with proper care, will allow you to live a normal, healthy lifestyle.

How long will dentures last?

Normally about five years. Natural teeth wear down and stain over the years and your dentures will too. The tissue in your mouth undergoes constant change, therefore your dentures will require adjusting and rebasing periodically in order to continue to fit perfectly.

It is wise to see your Dental Prosthetist at least once every year so that any corrective measures may be taken and serious problems avoided. And be sure to see your Dental Prosthetist at the first sign of irritation or frequent sore spots, no matter how minor you may feel it to be.

How quickly will I adjust to dentures?

Dentures are a substitute for your natural teeth and will therefore feel strange at first. Nature designated several years for us to get our natural teeth. Some will feel comfortable with their dentures in a week; some take considerably longer. A positive attitude and being aware of the adjustment that is taking place really helps. At first you may feel your new teeth are too big and your mouth and lips are too full. An increase in the flow of saliva in your mouth is a normal response to the unfamiliar object. But your facial muscles and oral tissues will adapt to the dentures in a very short time and you should soon feel quite comfortable with them.

How should I clean my dentures?

Ideally, your dentures should be cleaned after every meal. If this is impractical, clean them as soon after eating as possible. Always clean your dentures over a basin of water or a damp towel to avoid breakage if you drop them. Hold them gently between thumb and fingers; never squeeze them in your palm. You should use a denture brush and a good denture cleaner or soap, which you can buy at any pharmacy. Avoid gritty pastes or powders and use only lukewarm water, never hot.

How will dentures affect my eating?

Adjustment takes time and patience, but don't be discouraged. You will have to learn to bite and chew in a slightly different way. When biting food with natural teeth, the tendency is to pull forward. Instead of pulling out as you bite, push the food forward a little and bite completely through it. Start with small portions of food and eat slowly. Biting into an apple and eating corn on the cob are probably things you will want to postpone. You will be able to enjoy these foods later when you have mastered the art. Your Dental Prosthetist will be happy to help you work through any problems you encounter.

Should I remove my dentures at night?

As every case is different, your Dental Prothetist will advise you, based on your individual circumstances. There are also special precautions to take with your dentures when they are not in place. Your Dental Prothetist will explain these to you.

Will dentures affect my appearance?

Denture technology has become a fine art. Dentures today are personalised to suit you and look completely natural. During the process of making your new dentures, there will be a "try-in" this is the stage where your teeth are positioned in wax so you and your Dental Prosthetist can preview and discuss the appearance. Changes in appearance are adjusted at this stage, so you will be happy with the end result. The noticeable difference may be that some pronounced facial lines will be softened, giving you a more youthful look. Don't be afraid to smile and be proud of your good-looking teeth.

Will dentures affect my speech?

At first you may notice minor differences in your speech. Lisping is not unusual. Don't be concerned. Soon your tongue, lips and cheeks will become accustomed to the slight alteration in the shape of your mouth. Reading aloud to yourself is an excellent exercise that will more quickly restore your normal speech.