Full Dentures 

The cost of a full set of dentures in Australia can vary depending on factors like materials and complexity, but generally falls within the range of $3,460 to $6,000. Some government vouchers and dental insurance plans can help offset these costs.

This is a common concern for many patients. The adjustment period for full dentures can vary depending on the individual, but it typically takes several weeks to feel comfortable eating and speaking with them. Your dental prosthetist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your dentures and ease the adjustment process.

While it may take some practice, most people can eventually eat most foods with dentures. It's important to start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder textures as you become accustomed to your dentures. Chewing techniques might also need some adjustment.

Proper cleaning and care are essential for maintaining good oral health and extending the lifespan of your dentures. This typically involves brushing your dentures daily with a soft toothbrush and denture cleanser, soaking them overnight in a denture solution, and cleaning your mouth thoroughly. Your dental prosthetist will provide specific cleaning instructions based on your dentures and oral hygiene needs.

Full dentures generally last between 5-7 years with proper care and maintenance. However, this timeframe can vary based on several factors including how well you maintain your dentures, changes in your oral anatomy over time, and the quality of materials used in your dentures. At Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, our premium dentures are crafted from high-quality materials that may extend their lifespan. It's important to have your dentures professionally assessed annually, as your gum and jaw bone naturally change shape over time, which can affect your denture fit. Regular relines (typically every 2-3 years) can help maintain proper fit between full replacements, ensuring optimal comfort and function throughout your denture's lifetime.

While it's technically possible to sleep with your dentures in, we generally recommend removing them at night. Giving your gums a break from your dentures for 6-8 hours daily allows the tissues to rest and receive proper blood circulation, which helps maintain overall oral health. Removing dentures overnight also provides an opportunity for thorough cleaning and helps prevent potential bacterial growth that could lead to oral infections or denture stomatitis. If you do need to wear your dentures for a special occasion, make sure to remove them for at least a few hours during the day to allow your gums to rest. Your dental prosthetist at Northern Rivers Denture Clinic can provide personalised advice based on your specific situation.

Full dentures can actually improve your facial appearance by providing proper support for your facial muscles. When natural teeth are lost, the face can begin to sag, creating a sunken appearance around the mouth and cheeks. Professionally crafted dentures from Northern Rivers Denture Clinic are designed to restore the natural dimensions of your face, supporting your lips and cheeks appropriately. Our skilled dental prosthetists carefully consider facial proportions, ensuring your dentures provide the correct vertical dimension and support. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by the rejuvenating effect their new dentures have on their overall appearance, often looking years younger with their restored smile.

There is an adjustment period when learning to eat with new full dentures, but most patients adapt successfully with practice and patience. Initially, we recommend starting with soft foods cut into small pieces and chewing slowly using both sides of your mouth simultaneously for stability. As you gain confidence, gradually reintroduce firmer foods. Some challenging foods like whole apples, corn on the cob, or tough steaks may require special techniques or cutting into smaller pieces. At Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, we provide comprehensive guidance on adapting to eating with dentures, and within a few weeks, most patients can enjoy a varied diet again. Premium dentures with superior stability and fit, like our Premium Denture or implant-retained options, can significantly improve chewing efficiency compared to standard dentures.

Dry mouth (xerostomia) can make wearing dentures uncomfortable and affect their stability, as adequate saliva helps create suction for upper dentures. If you experience dry mouth, we recommend staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and limiting caffeine and alcohol which can be dehydrating. Over-the-counter saliva substitutes or moisturising gels designed specifically for denture wearers can provide relief. Sugar-free gum or lozenges can also stimulate natural saliva production. If medications are causing your dry mouth, consult with your doctor about possible alternatives. At Northern Rivers Denture Clinic, we can recommend denture adhesives that work well with dry conditions or discuss options like implant-retained dentures that rely less on suction for stability. Regular denture checks are especially important for patients with dry mouth to ensure optimal fit and comfort.

While full dentures themselves aren't susceptible to staining like natural teeth, they can accumulate surface discolorations over time from food and beverages. While there are some home remedies advertised for whitening dentures, these methods can be abrasive and damage the denture material.

For safe and effective whitening of your full dentures, professional cleaning is recommended. Your dental prosthetist can use specialised cleaning solutions and techniques to remove stains and restore the original appearance of your dentures. This type of professional cleaning also helps maintain good oral hygiene and overall mouth health.