When you’re missing teeth, especially on the front part, many people may feel a little bit conscious of their appearance. Aside from that, they also have a hard time chewing their food with teeth that are missing.
One classic and dependable option to replace missing teeth and regain oral function is oral dentures. This oral appliance has long been a trusted restoration solution by many people.
But what do we really know about them?
If you’re in Toongabbie and have questions about dentures, this guide is here to provide you with clear and helpful information from how they work to their costs and care.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are customised to fit comfortably in your mouth to ensure your ability to eat, speak, and smile is restored.
Dentures come in two main types:
- Complete Dentures: Used when all teeth are missing in the upper or lower jaw. At our practice, we may be able to fit you with “conventional” dentures, which are made after your gums have healed. You may also get another option called the “immediate” dentures, which are the ones you can get after your teeth are out.
- Partial Dentures: These are used when some natural teeth remain, and the denture is designed to fill in the gaps. This also helps in keeping your remaining teeth in place so they don’t shift out of place.
Benefits of Dentures
Dentures offer several advantages that go beyond just replacing missing teeth. Once you already have dentures, here are some of the benefits you can experience from them:
- Improved appearance: Dentures restore the natural look of your smile, which helps you regain confidence in your appearance. These restoration tools are typically customised to match your facial features and make sure they capture a natural and pleasing look.
- Enhanced function: With dentures, you can chew food more efficiently and speak clearly, as it eliminates the challenges that come with missing teeth.
- Support for facial structure: Missing teeth can cause the facial muscles to sag over time, leading to a sunken appearance. Dentures help maintain the shape of your face by providing support to your facial structure.
- Boosted confidence: In a research, it is said that an aesthetic smile can positively impact your self-esteem, allowing you to smile, laugh, and interact with others without hesitation.
- Improved oral health: Dentures prevent your remaining natural teeth from shifting out of place and reduce the risk of jawbone deterioration that can occur when teeth are missing.
The key to it is to work closely with your dentist to ensure your dentures are designed to suit your needs and provide maximum benefits for your oral health and overall well-being.
Can You Eat With Dentures?
Many of our patients ask this question a lot, if they will be able to chew their food well with dentures.
The answer is yes!
You can eat with dentures. In fact, it is one of the benefits you can experience, but it may take some time to adjust.
Here are some tips to make eating easier:
- Start slow: When you just have your dentures, begin with consuming soft foods like mashed potatoes, yoghurt, or scrambled eggs.
- Cut food into smaller pieces: If you want to eat tender food, try to cut them into smaller pieces, especially when it’s meat. This will help reduce the effort required to chew.
- Chew evenly: Distribute the pressure evenly by chewing on both sides of your mouth.
- Avoid sticky or hard foods initially: Eating sticky or hard food can make eating a hassle with your dentures. These can dislodge or damage your dentures, so make sure to steer clear of them first.
Eventually, when you’re able to get the hang of your dentures, eating with them will become more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy your favourite meals and explore a wider variety of foods.
How Long Do Dentures Last?
Dentures typically last for a long while but still do not give a permanent solution to the problem—not when you’re not taking good care of them.
With proper care, dentures can last between 7 to 10 years. However, they may need adjustments, repairs, or replacement over time due to:
- Normal wear and tear.
- Changes in the shape of your gums and jawbone.
- Stains or damage to the material.
Regular check-ups with your dentist will ensure your dentures remain comfortable and functional. So, if you’re thinking of getting dentures in Toongabbie, our dentists at Dentist Near Me Toongabbie can help you with your dental needs.
How to Care for Dentures
Aside from making sure your dentures fit your jaw structure well, proper care is the most essential part of keeping your dentures in good condition and maintaining your oral health. Follow these tips to ensure you enjoy your dentures for a long time:
How to Clean Dentures
- Rinse after meals: Remove your dentures and rinse them under running water to eliminate food particles.
- Brush daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser to clean all surfaces. Avoid regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface.
- Soak overnight: Place your dentures in a denture solution or water to keep them moist and maintain their shape.
- Clean your mouth: Use a soft toothbrush or gauze to clean your gums, tongue, and palate before reinserting your dentures.
How to Whiten Dentures
Over time, your dentures will appear stained or discoloured because of the food you eat—assuming you’re already comfortable having it and you’re already enjoying eating because of your restored teeth.
When they start to discolour, try out these steps to make them look brand new again:
- Use a denture-specific whitening cleanser.
- Avoid home remedies like bleach or baking soda, as these can damage the material.
- Schedule regular professional cleanings with your dentist to maintain their appearance.
How Much Do Dentures Cost?
The cost of dentures in Toongabbie can vary depending on the type of denture, the materials used, and the complexity of your dental needs. On average:
- Complete dentures may range from $2,000 to $5,000 per arch.
- Partial dentures typically cost between $700 and $2,500 per jaw.
If you’re eligible for a dental hospital voucher under the Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme (OHFFSS), it may help cover some or all of the costs. Dentist Near Me Toongabbie accepts OHFFSS vouchers and also offers flexible payment options, including Afterpay, Smile Right, HUMM, and Early Access to Super, to make quality dental care accessible for all patients.
Are Dentures Covered by Medicare?
In Australia, Medicare does not typically cover dentures unless they are provided under a public dental scheme. However, if you qualify for a dental hospital voucher through the OHFFSS, you may be able to access subsidised or free dentures at participating clinics, such as Dentist Near Me Toongabbie.
Check your eligibility and coverage details with your dentist or the relevant public dental service.
Restore Your Smile with Dentures in Toongabbie
Dentures are a reliable solution for missing teeth that offers patients with improved function, aesthetics, and confidence. With proper care and regular dental visits to your dentist, dentures may be able to provide years of comfort and support to you.
Looking for a dependable dental clinic that offers dentures in Toongabbie? Dentist Near Me is here to help! Our compassionate team can guide you through the process, ensure a comfortable fit, and assist with your OHFSS or other payment options if applicable.
Book your consultation with us today, and we’ll help you restore your smile and your normal teeth functions.