Frequently Asked Questions
What is a denturist?
A denturist is a denture specialist that is educated and trained specifically for all manner of removable oral prosthetics. Denturists are licensed with Washington State Health Licensing and maintain continuing education in their field. In practice, denturists are unique because they use a hands approach that includes in-house facilities for custom denture creation.
These qualities enable denturists to give their full attention to denture patients, working closely with them to provide the best possible fit and function as well as provide quick on-site adjustments and faster turn around times. Denturist see patients through the entire process from impressions to fabrication to placement.
Why should I see a denturist?
If you have problems or concerns with natural teeth you should see a dentist. If you have, or may need to have dentures you should see a denturist. A denturist uniquely serves only denture patients and as such offers higher quality care attention and expertise to denture wearers.
Do I still need to see a dentist?
If you have natural teeth you need to see a dentist. A denturist works around natural teeth, for example, partial dentures, but only works on or with denture prosthetics. Denturist do take patients from start to finish through the denture making process, from impressions to finished product.
Why are my dentures loose?
Dentures need to be relined every two years due to constant change in the mouth. A reline is maintenance on a properly functioning dentures. A reline consultation is always necessary to determine whether the fit is the only problem or if the dentures themselves need to be replaced due to wear.
My dentures were fine, now it's hard to chew, why?
All dentures wear out over time and need to be replaced at least every 5+ years depending on the wear of the teeth. A new set of dentures will reestablish the bite and occlusion making it much easier to cut and chew through food.
How long do dentures last?
The average set of dentures last for 5 years with optimal cutting and chewing capability. Beyond this time-frame there will be a definite and continual loss of function.
Do you provide follow up care?
Yes, all of our patients receive complimentary adjustments for the life of the teeth. We believe in patients being comfortable and happy. We recommend all dentures to be relined every two years to maintain fit and function. Having a reline done every two years will also lengthen the overall life of the dentures.
How can implants help denture wearers?
Dentures can become loose and can float on your gums. Denture wearers often experience challenges while eating, talking, and interacting with others, and find that their dentures are less secure and predictable than their natural teeth. For patients who are having these challenges, denture implants will help a patient eat and speak more confidently. This is especially helpful for the lower denture, which tends to be less secure.