How long do dentures normally last?
Depending on the care given to them as well as other conditions, they can last about 5-10 years.
How often should I see my denturist?
In order to assure your dentures remain in a proper state for as long as possible, you should see your denturist every 1-2 years. If any problems arise, it is recommended to consult your denturist as soon as possible so as to avoid further development of the problem.
How often should I clean my dentures?
In order to maintain proper denture conditions and overall oral hygiene, the denture should be cleaned every day. During the day, it is recommended to rinse the denture after each meal. At night, the denture must first be cleaned with a soft-bristle brush. It must then be disinfected using a solution specifically designed for dentures (ex. Polident). For optimal results, you must follow the instructions specific to each product. In most cases, the disinfectant must be used every night. There are certain products, such as Nitradine, however, which must be used only twice a week for just 15 minutes as they function differently.
What are the recommended ways of cleaning dentures?
It is best to obtain products specific for dentures. Also, it is better to avoid toothbrushes with hard bristles as they can potentially damage your dentures.
During the day, it is recommended to rinse the denture after each meal. At night, the denture must first be cleaned with a soft-bristle brush. It must then be disinfected using a solution specifically designed for dentures (ex. Polident). For optimal results, you must follow the instructions specific to each product. In most cases, the disinfectant must be used every night. There are certain products, such as Nitradine, however, which must be used only twice a week for just 15 minutes as they function differently.
Can I wear my dentures all the time? Should I take them off at night?
Dentures are not meant to be kept in the mouth at all times. They should definitely be taken out and cleaned every night before sleeping.
How long after pulling my teeth can I start wearing dentures? What will be the steps following the procedure?
The period between the pulling of teeth and the wearing of dentures can vary from no time at all (immediate input – in this case, the denture is made before the extractions) up to 4 weeks after. The average and recommended time is around 2 weeks for several extractions and 3 days for one extraction.
Some individuals do not want to remain with any gaps between their teeth and wish to have the denture ready the same day they get the extractions. In some cases, the dentist recommends this method to diminish swelling and bleeding. However, you must keep in mind that this type of denture is temporary because it was made without any model of your gums after extraction and healing. This often later leads to discomfort, which is why most patients get a permanent denture made a few months after the extractions to replace the immediate temporary one.
The other option would be to wait around 2 weeks for healing of the gum. At this point, the impressions will be much closer to how your gums will eventually be. There may still be swelling and shape shifting for first 1-3 months, which is why some individuals with significant change will require a simple reline, as opposed to get an entirely new denture.
How long does it take to get used to partial dentures?
For the first few weeks, your new partial denture might create a bit of discomfort; but, eventually you will get used to it. In many cases, full adaptation may take around 3 months. In addition, inserting and removing prostheses requires practice. Be sure to follow the instructions given by your denturist so that you can wear them comfortably and take proper care of them.
Are there foods that I will not be able to eat with my dentures?
Generally, no. You may continue eating as you did before, however, the first few weeks may be a bit awkward which is why very sticky or hard food should be avoided. It is best to start with softer foods cut into smaller pieces than what you would normally eat. However, do not forget that even natural teeth are sensitive and must be taken care of, so think the same of your dentures and give them the best care. You must also keep in mind that even the best of dentures will not be like natural teeth. The state of our gums, your oral health, your jaw, etc. are all factors that will affect the ease with which you will be able to eat.
What are the advantages of implants?
The presence of implants allow for decreased mobility of the dentures. They also prevent bone loss, removing the need for relining. Furthermore, you will also gain more chewing power which leaves you feeling more like the dentures are your own teeth.
Can a denturist place the implants or is there a specialist?
No, this procedure must be performed by an implantologist. However, the dentures are still made by the denturist.
Do insurances cover the cost of dentures?
Most do cover the cost of dentures but not all of them and usually not in full. The percentage of coverage depends on the insurance company and on your plan. We do not deal with insurances directly, however, we can provide you with a pre-evaluation form which you will need to send to your provider. Once the work is complete and you have paid in full, we will give you the payment request form; your insurance will then pay you directly the amount they had approved.
Do insurances cover the cost of implants?
Most insurances do not cover the cost of implants.
Do you accept patients on Social Assistance (Welfare)?
Yes, absolutely! Furthermore, you can rest assured that we use the same quality materials. Keep in mind, however, that RAMQ does not cover all types of dentures. They only cover acrylic ones. You must have been on Social Assistance for 2 years before being eligible. You also need an authorization (it is a legal sized document that is mailed out to you once you request it) before we can commence the work. To get one, you can book an appointment with us to get the authorization request form or you can call your agent (at times, they may accept your request over the phone if you know what you need – partial/complete/reline…). Once you receive the authorization, you must call us to book an appointment during which we will begin the process by taking your impressions.