Frequently asked questions

Dentures are removable dental prostheses that are used for restoring the appearance and functions of missing teeth. Complete dentures (or full dentures) are designed to replace an entire set of teeth, either the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both.

Partial dentures, on the other hand, are for those who have lost only a few teeth. Partial dentures replace missing teeth and prevent the remaining teeth from moving. Partial dentures are an affordable alternative to dental crowns and bridges.

There are three types of partial dentures: cast metal partials (either titanium or chrome), acrylic partials, and flexible partials. Cast partials and acrylic partials have clasps that can be adjusted where flexible partials’ clasps generally can’t be tightened or loosened.

Acrylic partial dentures are similar in design to complete dentures whereby the missing teeth are replaced by denture teeth which are supported by a thick denture base. These dentures are held in place by wire that is bent around some of the remaining natural teeth. Acrylic partial dentures generally don’t fit as well as cast partials because they are considerably thicker and don’t have a rest on top of the natural teeth to prevent them from sinking into the gums.

Flexible partials use vinyl material in place of the pink denture acrylic. This vinyl is flexible and allows us to make the partial without any metal clasps. Many people don’t like to have visible metal clasps on their teeth when they smile so flexible dentures help solving this issue. However, vinyl clasps cannot be tightened or loosened like they can in cast and acrylic dentures.

The cost of dentures varies considerably depending on the type of dentures and the quality of denture materials. The old saying “You get what you pay for” often rightly applies. The quality of the dentures can determine their price to a great degree. Quality can affect the comfort and aesthetics of the dentures. High-end dentures usually involve a great measure of dental artistry and utilise materials which mimic the natural look and colour of teeth and gums to the highest degree possible.

Premium denture teeth like Phonares II are designed to last longer and include a warranty against wear and tear. Mid-range dentures are made incorporating many of the same features as their high-end counterparts, but with a lower degree of artistry, tooth quality and a more limited warranty. 

Low-end dentures are a more cost effective choice for patients who are seeking an affordable solution to missing teeth. The difference between low-end dentures and mid-range dentures may be great in terms of longevity, and aesthetics.

Denture manufacture often takes 4 to 6 appointments to complete (these may vary depending on the type of denture). 

• Initial impression(s): Using alginate material (mint flavoured), your dental clinician will take an impression of your mouth.
• Secondary impression(s): Using moulds created from the initial impression, a special tray is made to fit the unique shape of your mouth. This enables us to get an accurate copy of your mouth for a precise denture fitting at the final stage.
• Bite registration: we measure the relationship between your upper and lower jaw. At this appointment, your clinician will help you choose the shade, shape and size of your denture teeth.
• Wax Try in: Your new denture teeth are set in wax onto a base. At this appointment you have the opportunity to check the aesthetics of your new denture and request any changes to be made, prior to the denture being completed.
• Delivery: Your final appointment in which your new denture is delivered.
• Follow up:  Post insertion appointment takes place 5 days after your denture has been delivered.

Minor adjustments may be required after the denture is fitted. All appointments are included in the cost of your denture.

Getting used to eating

• Eating with new dentures can be challenging especially if you’ve never worn dentures before.
• Start with soft food such as fish, eggs, chopped meat and cooked vegetables.
• Cut food into small bite sizes or take a small bite at a time.
• Chew food using both sides of your mouth which can helps you get used to them quickly

Adjusting to life with new dentures

• Give yourself some times to get used to your new dentures.
• You may develop some sore spots initially where your dentures rub against your gums. If you find the irritation persists for more than a couple of days, contact AestheTech Denture Clinic to have it checked.

Speaking with new dentures

• Your tongue will quickly adjust to having new dentures in the mouth. Give it time.
• Practice saying difficult words that you find it hard to pronounce with your new denture. Sometimes it helps to practice in front of a mirror.
• Read a book or a magazine out loud when it’s convenient for you to do so.

Regular check-up

• We recommend you make a check-up appointment annually to make sure your dentures fit properly and your gums stay healthy.
• Over time you may find your dentures have become looser. This is because the gums do shrink over time which may alter the fit of your dentures. If you are concerned, revisit AestheTech Denture Clinic to have your dentures assessed whether it need to be relined (incurs a cost) so we can make them fit better again.

Your dentures will last longer with regular cleaning and proper care. If you do not clean your denture regularly, you may experience inflamed gums and bad breath as a result of bacteria developed over time. If possible, clean your denture after each meal and especially before going to sleep each night. 

Cleaning your dentures daily with non-abrasive products using a soft denture brush is a highly effective in keeping your denture clean and fresh. Take your denture out the mouth first and wash every part of your denture thoroughly. You may use soap ( or dish-washing liquid) and a soft denture brush, then rinse thoroughly with running water. You should clean the denture over a basin filled with water or place a face-cloth in the basin, so that if the denture slips, it reduces the chance of breakage. If you prefer to use toothpaste, a denture toothpaste should be used. Do not use the conventional toothpaste as they are designed for natural teeth and can be too abrasive for cleaning dentures. Do not immerse the denture in extremely hot water, as it may distort.

It is best that you wear your new dentures constantly, even at night for the first two week. However, under normal circumstances we recommend taking out your dentures at night to give your gums a rest.  Research has shown that removing the denture for at least eight hours promotes better long-term health of the gums. Removing denture at night allows the gum to rest and allows cleansing of oral tissues by the saliva. Soak your dentures in cold water whenever you are not wearing them. 

The lifespan of a denture varies depending the quality of denture materials. A denture should perform satisfactorily for about 5-15 years on average lifespan. Your denture is likely to last considerably beyond their average life expectancy. However, the shape of your jawbone will have shrunk significantly which results in inefficient chewing, loss of appearance (droopy lips) and loose denture. In addition, after 5-15 years, bacteria can builds up  even in the most well-cared denture which can cause inflamed oral tissues and other oral health problems.

These problems can be rectified, but don’t leave it for too long as the rehabilitation can become difficult. Your denture is worn for most of the 24 hours of your daily routine. Therefore, regular checkup and servicing are needed if it is to function as intended.

It is best that you wear your new dentures constantly, even at night for the first two week. However, after the first two weeks, we recommend taking out your dentures at night to give your gums a rest.  Research has shown that removing the denture for at least eight hours promotes better long-term health of the gums. Removing denture at night allows the gum to rest and allows cleansing of oral tissues by the saliva. Soak your dentures in cold water whenever you are not wearing them. 

Even though, your dentures should perform satisfactorily for 5 to 15 years, denture teeth are not as durable as natural teeth and will wear gradually with age. The better the quality of the denture teeth, the longer the life expectancy of the denture. Worn denture teeth cannot be rebuilt. If your denture teeth is worn completely, a denture replacement may be needed. In addition, after 5-15 years, bacteria can builds up even in the most well-cared denture which can cause inflamed oral tissues and other oral health problems.

If you experience any of the following, it may be an indication for a new denture:

• Difficulty chewing food with your denture
• Inflammation in the mouth
• Bad breath
• Cheek  biting and/or tongue biting
• Clicking noises when eating and talking
• General discomfort when wearing your denture