Dentures
At MGA Dental, we understand that missing teeth can impact not just your smile but your overall confidence and quality of life. That’s why we offer high-quality dentures that are custom-designed to restore your smile, improve your ability to eat and speak, and help maintain your oral health.
Whether you’re missing a few teeth or need a full set, our team at MGA Dental Brisbane and Gold Coast is here to provide you with comfortable, natural-looking dentures tailored to your needs.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit your mouth, restoring both the function and appearance of your smile.
Dentures are crafted from durable materials that mimic the natural look and feel of teeth, helping to improve the aesthetics of your mouth and jaw.
There are two main types of dentures:
- Complete Dentures: These are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower arch need to be replaced. Complete dentures are designed to fit snugly over your gums and are usually worn for the entire day.
- Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth. These dentures are designed to fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and are typically secured in place with clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth.
At MGA Dental, we provide both full and partial dentures that are custom-designed to suit your individual needs. Each set is carefully crafted to ensure a comfortable fit, lasting stability, and a natural-looking smile.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Dentures
The process of getting dentures typically involves the following steps:
1.
Initial Consultation:
During your first visit to MGA Dental, we will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. This may include X-rays and impressions to evaluate the condition of your gums and remaining teeth.
2.
Custom Design:
Based on the assessment, we will create a personalized treatment plan for your dentures. Impressions of your mouth will be taken to ensure a precise fit. We will also discuss the type of dentures that are best suited to your needs.
3.
Fitting and Adjustments:
Once your dentures are made, you’ll have a fitting appointment where we will ensure the dentures fit comfortably and securely in your mouth. We may make adjustments to ensure they align properly with your bite.
4.
Follow-Up Care:
After receiving your dentures, follow-up appointments may be necessary to check how your mouth is adjusting. As your gums change over time, your dentures may require adjustments to maintain a proper fit.
Benefits of Choosing Dentures
Dentures offer a range of benefits for individuals who are missing teeth:
- Improved Appearance: Dentures can help restore your facial structure by filling out the cheeks and lips, which may sag due to tooth loss.
- Enhanced Functionality: Dentures restore the ability to chew and speak properly, making everyday tasks like eating and conversing more comfortable.
- Boosted Confidence: A well-fitted set of dentures improves your smile and can restore self-esteem, allowing you to feel confident in social and professional settings
- Affordable Solution: Compared to other tooth replacement options, dentures are often a more cost-effective solution, particularly when multiple teeth need replacing.
Four Types of Dentures
At MGA Dental Clinics in Brisbane and Gold Coast, we offer a range of denture types and materials tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Our team will work closely with you to find the most suitable solution for your individual case.
- Conventional Full Dentures
These traditional dentures are made after all remaining teeth are removed and the gums have fully healed—a process that typically takes several months. - Immediate Dentures
Placed immediately after tooth extraction, these dentures serve as a temporary solution while your gums heal. As the gums shrink during recovery, adjustments are often needed. - Implant-Supported Dentures
For added stability and comfort, implant-supported dentures are secured to dental implants placed in the jawbone. This option offers a more permanent and secure alternative to removable dentures. - Flexible Partial Dentures
Made from soft, flexible materials, these partial dentures offer improved comfort and a snug fit—ideal for patients needing to replace only a few missing teeth.
Denture Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dentures. Here are some tips to keep your dentures in top shape:
- Clean your dentures regularly: Brush your dentures daily with a soft toothbrush and a mild denture cleaner to remove food particles and plaque.
- Soak your dentures: When not in use, soak your dentures in water or a denture-cleaning solution to prevent them from drying out or losing their shape.
- Rinse after meals: Rinse your dentures after meals to remove any food debris and prevent staining.
- Visit MGA Dental regularly: Regular check-ups are important to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. Over time, your gums may change shape, requiring adjustments to your dentures for comfort.
MGA Dental provides care instructions and follow-up appointments to ensure proper fit and care.
Why Choose MGA Dental for Your Dentures?
At MGA Dental, we take pride in offering personalized care and high-quality denture solutions for all of our patients. Here’s why you should choose us for your denture needs:
- Expertise: Our experienced team of dentists and prosthetists are skilled in creating and fitting dentures that look and feel natural.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest technology and materials to create precise, comfortable dentures that fit seamlessly into your mouth.
- Comprehensive Care: From your initial consultation to ongoing follow-up care, we are with you every step of the way to ensure you receive the best results.
- Affordable Options: We offer a range of denture options to suit your budget and can work with insurance providers to help you access coverage where applicable.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re missing teeth and considering dentures, get in touch with MGA Dental in Brisbane or the Gold Coast to book your consultation. Our friendly team is here to provide the guidance, care, and personalised solutions you need to restore your smile and your confidence with high-quality dentures designed just for you.
How to get FREE Dentures in Australia
In Australia, getting free dentures is challenging but possible under certain conditions, typically through government-funded programs or specific circumstances. Here are the main ways you might be able to access dentures at no cost or at a reduced cost:
1. Public Health Services (State-Based Programs)
Each state and territory in Australia has its own public dental health system that provides dental care for eligible individuals, usually through a means-tested program. However, dentures are generally only provided for those who meet specific criteria, such as:
- Low-income earners or those experiencing financial hardship
- Eligible for the Public Dental Health Scheme in your state (for example, Queensland Health or New South Wales Health)
- Seniors or pensioners: In some states, eligible seniors or pensioners may receive free or subsidized dentures.
Process: You’ll need to apply through the public dental health services in your area, such as:
- Queensland Health (for Brisbane and Gold Coast residents) offers dental care through public clinics.
- NSW Health, VIC Health, and other state-based programs also offer similar services.
Waitlists: Public dental services often have long waiting times for non-urgent dental care, including dentures, so be prepared for potentially long delays.
2. Medicare and the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)
While Medicare generally doesn’t cover dentures for adults, children under 18 who are eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) can receive some dental services, including extractions and basic restorative work. However, dentures are typically not covered under CDBS unless they’re part of a more extensive treatment plan related to oral health conditions.
3. Low-Cost Dental Services and Charitable Organizations
In some cases, low-income individuals or those in financial need may be able to access free or reduced-cost dentures through local community health organizations, charities, or dental schools. These programs typically offer dental care to those who cannot afford regular dental treatments, including dentures.
Some organizations to look into include:
- Dental schools: Many Australian universities with dental programs (such as The University of Queensland in Brisbane) offer affordable dental care provided by students under the supervision of qualified professionals. Some of these services might include dentures, often at a lower cost than private practices.
- Charities: Certain charities or non-profit organizations may occasionally run programs or offer subsidies for dental care.
4. Private Health Insurance
While not “free,” private health insurance can significantly reduce the cost of dentures. Some plans offer partial coverage for dentures, and depending on your level of coverage, this might substantially lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
5. Veterans and Pensioners
If you’re a veteran, you may be eligible for dentures through Veterans’ Affairs. Eligible veterans can access dental care, including dentures, under the Veterans’ Dental Scheme.
Pensioners may also be entitled to subsidized dental care through their respective state health systems, with reduced costs for dentures depending on eligibility.
How MGA Dental Can Help
At MGA Dental Brisbane and Gold Coast, we’re committed to making dentures more accessible. While we don’t offer free dentures, we work with major health funds and provide flexible payment plans. We can also guide you through available public programs and help you find an option that fits your budget.
To explore your denture options, contact MGA Dental Brisbane or Gold Coast today to schedule a consultation with our experienced team.
FAQs About Getting Dentures
How do I know if I need dentures?
You may need dentures if you are missing multiple teeth, have severely damaged teeth that cannot be repaired, or are experiencing difficulties with chewing and speaking. A consultation with MGA Dental can help determine if dentures are the right solution for you.
How long does it take to get dentures?
The process usually takes a few weeks. First, an initial consultation is needed, followed by taking impressions. The fabrication of the dentures can take several weeks, depending on the complexity. Afterward, fitting and any necessary adjustments are done.
Are dentures comfortable?
When properly fitted, dentures can be very comfortable. Initially, they may feel a little foreign in your mouth, but with time and adjustments, they should fit comfortably and function naturally.
How long do dentures last?
Dentures typically last around 5-10 years, depending on how well you care for them and how your mouth changes over time. Your dentist may recommend relining or remaking your dentures if they begin to feel loose or uncomfortable.
How do I care for my dentures?
Proper care is crucial for maintaining your dentures’ longevity. Clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and denture cleaner. Soak them overnight in water or a denture cleaning solution. Avoid using regular toothpaste, which can damage the material.
Can I eat with dentures right away?
It’s advisable to start with soft foods for the first few days after getting dentures to allow your mouth to adjust. If you have implant-supported dentures, they may allow you to eat more comfortably and securely than traditional dentures.
Will dentures affect my speech?
Initially, you may experience some difficulty speaking clearly as your mouth adjusts to the new dentures. With practice, most people find that their speech improves over time.
Can dentures be fixed if they break?
Yes, if your dentures break, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. At MGA Dental, we offer prompt repair services and can assess whether any adjustments are needed to improve their fit and comfort.
How much do dentures cost in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast?
The cost of dentures varies based on the type of denture (full or partial) and the materials used. On average, full dentures can range from $1,000 to $2,500 per arch, while partial dentures typically range from $800 to $1,500. The price may also depend on additional treatments like extractions or implant placement. At MGA Dental, we offer various options to suit different budgets and work with insurance providers.
Are dentures covered by insurance?
Many private health insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dentures. MGA Dental works with various insurance providers to help you navigate your coverage options. We also provide flexible payment plans to ensure that dentures are affordable for all patients.