Dentures Treatment In Melbourne

At Mulgrave Dental Group, our team of experienced professionals takes pride in providing high-quality, comfortable, and functional dentures for our patients. Whether you're missing a few teeth or require a complete set, we're dedicated to restoring your smile and enhancing your overall oral health.

Dentures are custom-made replacements for missing teeth and can be taken out and put back into your mouth. They are typically made from a combination of materials including acrylic, nylon, and metal, designed to look and feel like natural teeth. While dentures take some getting used to, and will never feel exactly the same as natural teeth, today's dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever.

Types of Dentures

Dentures come in several types, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. The choice depends on individual needs, oral health, and budget.

Full Dentures: Also known as complete dentures, full dentures replace all teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. They consist of a gum-coloured acrylic base that fits over the gums, with artificial teeth attached. Full dentures are removable and are held in place by suction and, occasionally, denture adhesive. They provide a cost-effective solution for total tooth loss but may feel less secure than other options.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are designed for people who still have some natural teeth remaining. These dentures fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and prevent remaining teeth from shifting position. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a metal framework that clips onto natural teeth for stability. Partial dentures are less invasive and more affordable than dental implants but may not be as comfortable or natural-looking.
Immediate Dentures: Immediate dentures are full or partial dentures that are inserted on the same day that remaining teeth are extracted. This ensures that the patient does not have to go without teeth during the healing period. However, since the gums and bone can shrink during healing, immediate dentures often require more adjustments for proper fit and may need to be replaced with conventional dentures later.
Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, providing superior stability and comfort. They can be removable or fixed and are typically used when a patient lacks teeth but has enough bone in the jaw to support implants. Although implant-supported dentures offer many benefits, such as improved comfort, speech, and chewing ability, they are more expensive and involve a more complex procedure than other types of dentures.

Personalised Approach

Dentures work by fitting snugly over the gums and jawbone, providing the appearance and functional support that your natural teeth once offered. They are specifically moulded to fit each patient's mouth, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.

There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. Full dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain and are designed to fill in the gaps created by missing teeth.

The Denture Fitting Process

At Mulgrave Dental Group, we understand that getting dentures can feel like a significant step, so we aim to ensure that the process is as comfortable, efficient, and clear as possible for our patients. Here's what you can expect during the denture fitting process:

Initial Consultation: The journey to getting dentures starts with an initial consultation. During this appointment, our dentists will perform a comprehensive oral examination to assess your oral health and determine whether dentures are the right solution for you. We'll discuss your options, including the types of dentures available and what each involves.
Preparation: If dentures are deemed suitable, the next step involves preparing your mouth. This may include tooth extractions, particularly if decayed or damaged teeth are present. In some cases, other oral surgeries may be necessary to prepare your mouth for dentures. Local anaesthesia is used to ensure your comfort during these procedures.
Impressions & Measurements: Once your mouth is prepared, the dentist will take impressions and measurements of your mouth. These are used to custom-create your dentures to ensure they fit properly and comfortably, matching the unique shape and contours of your mouth.
Denture Creation: The impressions and measurements are sent to a dental laboratory, where your dentures are made. This process typically takes a few weeks. In the meantime, you may be fitted with temporary dentures to maintain your oral function and appearance.
Fitting & Adjustments: When your dentures are ready, you'll return to our clinic for the fitting. The dentist will place the dentures in your mouth and check the fit, making any necessary adjustments for optimal comfort and function.
Follow-Up Care & Maintenance: Post-fitting, we'll provide you with instructions on how to care for your new dentures and maintain good oral hygiene. We'll also schedule follow-up appointments to check your dentures and make adjustments as necessary. It's common to need a few adjustments as you get used to wearing your dentures, and we're committed to ensuring they fit well and feel comfortable.
Recovery: Recovery time varies for each individual and depends on whether any extractions or other oral surgeries were performed. It can take a few weeks to several months to fully adjust to wearing dentures. However, any initial discomfort typically subsides within a few weeks.

Quality Assurance

Dentures are often recommended by dentists for patients who have lost teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, and for those who might be suffering from the negative effects of missing teeth. These effects can include difficulties with speech and eating, facial sagging, and a decrease in self-esteem due to a less aesthetic smile.

Each type of denture serves a unique purpose and presents distinct advantages and disadvantages. It's essential to consult with a dental professional to choose the best option for your individual needs.

Aftercare & Maintenance

Proper aftercare and maintenance are crucial to extend the lifespan of your dentures and maintain optimal oral health. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Daily Cleaning: Just like natural teeth, dentures need to be cleaned daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a brush designed specifically for dentures. Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive for dentures, so use a denture cleaner instead. Dentures should be removed and rinsed after meals and brushed at least twice a day to remove food particles and plaque.
Overnight Soaking: Most types of dentures need to stay moist to keep their shape. Therefore, it is recommended to soak them in a denture-soaking solution or water overnight. Always rinse your dentures thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth, especially if they've been soaking in a solution that contains any type of bleach.
Handle With Care: Dentures are delicate and can break easily if dropped. When handling your dentures, stand over a folded towel or a basin of water to cushion any potential fall.
Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential even when wearing dentures. Brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth every morning before inserting your dentures to stimulate circulation in your tissues and help remove plaque.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular dental check-ups are crucial when you have dentures. Your dentist will examine your oral tissues for changes and for sores that might become cancerous, check your dentures for proper fit, and clean and adjust them as needed.
Diet & Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet is important for overall oral health. Try to eat a variety of foods, but be careful with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells. Also, avoid tobacco and limit your alcohol consumption, as both can affect the health of your mouth and gums.

Confidence Is Key

At Mulgrave Dental Group, we're with you every step of the way in your denture fitting journey, ensuring you receive the personalised care and attention you deserve. Our goal is to restore your smile and improve your oral health with high-quality, comfortable dentures.

At Mulgrave Dental Group, we are committed to helping you maintain your dentures and oral health. With the right care and regular dental check-ups, dentures can help you smile, eat, and speak with confidence for many years.

What can I eat with dentures?

After getting dentures, start with soft foods cut into small pieces. As you get used to your dentures, you can introduce more foods back into your diet. However, it's best to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods as they can damage your dentures.

Do dentures feel natural?

Dentures may feel a bit strange or loose for the first few weeks until the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place. Over time, they should feel more natural and comfortable. However, they will never feel exactly the same as natural teeth.

Can dentures be adjusted?

Yes, dentures can be adjusted for a better fit. If you're experiencing discomfort or your dentures are causing sores in your mouth, it's important to visit your dentist for adjustments.

Can dentures be repaired?

Yes, dentures can be repaired. If they become cracked, chipped, or broken, it's important to bring them to your dentist as soon as possible. Never try to repair dentures yourself as you could cause more damage.

Can I sleep with my dentures in?

While it's possible to sleep with dentures in, it's usually recommended to remove them at night. This gives your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of the dentures during the day.

What is the cost of dentures?

The cost of dentures can vary widely depending on the type of dentures, the materials used, and other factors. It's best to consult with your dentist for an accurate estimate.

Will my insurance cover the cost of dentures?

Many dental insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of dentures. However, coverage can vary significantly, so it's important to check with your insurance provider.

Are there any risks or complications associated with dentures?

Dentures can occasionally cause complications, including sores, infections, and difficulties with speech and eating. However, most of these issues can be addressed with adjustments from your dentist. Long-term use of dentures can also lead to bone loss in the area where the denture rests. Regular check-ups with your dentist can help mitigate these risks.

Payment plans

Mulgrave Dental Group accepts various methods of payments and interest-free payment plan options.

We accept AfterPay, Zip, and Humm payment plans. The ATO now accepts early super release for medical treatments or expenses if you meet the eligibility criteria. Should you wish to obtain more information about this process please call us on (03) 9562 5156 to discuss further.

Mulgrave Dental Group is located only 20 minutes from Melbourne CBS. By car take the Monash Freeway - Wellington Road exist both south bound and north bound. We are located at 47 Wanda Street, Mulgrave 3170 Victoria.