Dentures are a convenient and cost-effective way to replace multiple missing teeth, lost due to trauma, decay, wear or age.

Missing multiple teeth can not only impact the look of your smile, it can also significantly impact on its functionality and overall health. Dentures are a popular and efficient way to replace multiple missing teeth. At Dr Chris Hart Prosthodontist, we offer denture solutions which are subtle, comfortable, secure and will have you smiling again.

What are dentures?

There are two common options when considering dentures to replace missing teeth.

Conventional dentures

Conventional dentures are fully removable and are an alternative to fixed, implant-supported dentures. They cover the entire jaw and are made for patients who are missing all their teeth. This is arguably the simplest way to replace multiple teeth, as it doesn’t necessarily require surgery and can be cleaned and looked after easily.

Fixed dentures

Fixed, implant-supported dentures are, as the name suggests, secured permanently to the mouth using a number of dental implant fixtures. Many patients prefer this option, as they are permanently attached to the gums and jaw and are therefore less likely to become dislodged when talking or eating. The most common of these is called an ‘All-On-4’ dentures, and involves the strategic placement of four implants to secure a full arch restoration.

Within these two options, your prosthodontist may also suggest either partial or full dentures:

Partial dentures can replace one or several missing teeth in a section of your jaw, and can reduce the pressures on your existing, natural teeth, helping to distribute everyday forces from chewing and grinding.

Full dentures are a complete replacement for all teeth, and replace the entirety of the dental arch. Full dentures may require the extraction of any remaining natural teeth to ensure a secure fit on the gums and an optimum result.

At Dr Chris Hart Prosthodontist, natural-looking and secure dentures are our priority. We work hard to ensure your prosthetic dental appliance not only fits your mouth, but also fits-in with the natural look and colours of your gums and cheeks.

What are the advantages of dentures?

• No food restrictions– patients fitted with dentures will no longer be restricted to a soft-food diet and will be free to indulge in all kinds of foods.
• Aesthetic appeal– high quality dentures, that are well fitted almost look and feel like natural teeth.
• Muscle support– tooth loss can give your face a gaunt, sunken appearance. Dentures provide support to the facial muscles, decreasing instances of oral bone loss and giving the face definition and form.

Will dentures be painful to wear?

Initially, you may experience slight irritation with the new denture that will dissipate as you become used to wearing it. If the denture was fitted immediately after an extraction, you will experience pain and discomfort for a few weeks, until your mouth has healed from the extraction.

How long does it take to make a set of dentures?

Most conventional dentures can be delivered after six to eight appointments, over one to two weeks. Occasionally more time is required to ensure the appliance is a perfect fit, or if small changes need to be made. The amount of time required will be estimated at the initial appointment thanks to our comprehensive treatment planning.

If you are missing multiple teeth, or wish to find out more about our denture services, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team on: 03 9663 5264.