Dentures are meant to restore your oral health, chewing ability, and confident smile. Unfortunately, many people have a very different experience. We hear from many patients who had their dreams of a dazzling smile crushed with nightmarish denture troubles. Many of them went back to the dentist for revisions, or even a new appliance. Yet, problems continued. Sometimes these people contact us for advice, wanting to know what could have went wrong and what questions they should ask their dentists.
While the vast majority of dentists make every effort to provide quality care, they are not all denture experts. To help you identify a good dentist, we have compiled this list of essential questions that you should always ask before committing to treatment. For each question, we will explain what answer is acceptable, and indicates a qualified dentist. We will also reveal the answer we give when patients ask these questions about The Denture and Implant Clinic in Surrey.
1
How many dentures do you make annually ?
An acceptable answer :
Experience is essential, because denture cases can be quite complex. Some dentists make very few dentures, and some avoid the procedure when possible. You should look for a dentist with as much experience as possible. Ideally, he or she should perform at least 50 denture cases every year.
Our answer :
We are exclusively focused on dentures and dental implant treatment. This is quite rare for a dental practice and provides our team with an unusually high level of experience.
2
“Am I going to see the technician who will make my dentures?”
An acceptable answer :
Meeting the technician is best, but it is uncommon. An acceptable answer would be that the dentist will discuss your case in detail with the technician, and possibly provide photographs.
Our answer :
Absolutely! Before making a set of dentures, the technician always meets with the patient in person to discuss treatment and demonstrate a wax replica of the appliance.
3
“Where is the laboratory located?”
An acceptable answer :
It is better if the lab is located near the dental practice. This makes it possible for you to visit the lab in person. Additionally, if denture adjustments are needed, you can meet with the technician as well as the dentist.
Our answer :
With an on-site laboratory, The Denture and Implant Clinic dentists and technicians work closely together.
4
“What steps do you take to prevent distortion of impressions?”
An acceptable answer :
Impressions should be made of quality durable materials. It is also important that they are sent to the laboratory promptly. It is helpful if the lab is in close proximity of the dental practice, because this reduces transit time.
Our answer :
We use the border molding technique to accurately duplicate the natural contours of soft tissues, for the best possible fit. Our impressions are made of quality materials and immediately delivered to the on-site dental laboratory.
5
“How do you ensure that the bite is accurately recorded?”
An acceptable answer :
Accuracy of the bite is imperative for chewing efficiency and patient comfort. Typically, dentists work the lower jaw muscles to a resting position in an effort to get an accurate impression. A dentist with a special focus on dentures will probably expect to repeat this step at the try-in appointment.
Our answer :
The Denture and Implant Clinic uses an advanced technique known as Intra-Oral Gothic Tracing. Less than one percent of dentists use this method, because it is quite technical and time consuming. However, many experts believe that it is the best way to achieve an accurate bite.
6
“What does it take to create a natural looking denture?”
An acceptable answer :
It is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve ideal aesthetics in a single attempt, unless the technician works with the patient. A dentist who takes cosmetic details seriously is likely to tell you that two or three try-in appointments will be needed.
Our answer :
We take the unusual step of putting the technician and patient in the same room, working together to refine the design. It is a bit time consuming, but our patients are delighted with the appearance of their dentures.
7
“What happens if my dentures need adjustment after they are finished?”
An acceptable answer :
It is important that adjustments be minimal and performed with precision. A dentist who does not use pressure indicating paste should advise you that adjustments may take a few visits, because they must be done a little at a time.
Our answer :
We utilize pressure indicating paste, which show exactly where the high spots are. This allows for precise, conservative adjustments creating an ideal fit.
8
Are dental implants available?
An acceptable answer :
Having a variety of options is important. A dentist who focuses on tooth replacement solutions will likely offer basic implant treatment, although complex cases may be referred out.
Our answer :
We take pride in offering options, without pressure. We are able to provide all types of dentures and dental implants, including complex cases. We also offer mini-implants for stabilizing dentures.
9
“Are 3D dentures available?”
An acceptable answer :
Even a dentist who is experienced in various denture technology is not likely to offer this option, as The Denture and Implant Clinic introduced it to the UK.
Our answer :
We take pride in being the first UK dental practice to offer this advanced technology. What sets this technique apart is the comprehensive imprisoning method, which records the position of the tongue and cheeks as well as the teeth and gums. It results in a more natural, comfortable feel and superb fit.
The above questions are designed to spark a conversation between you and your dentist. His or her willingness to discuss your concerns, and knowledge of the topic, is an indicator of the level of personal service you will receive.
If you have any questions or you would like to schedule an appointment with one of the UK’s premier dental practices for dentures,
Call Now 020 8629 1226
