Just like natural teeth come with maintenance needs, so do dentures. Having a denture relined is a normal expectation as tissues remodel over time,  making the fit of a denture less than perfect. As with different styles of dentures, there are also varying forms of relines. Each one is designed to improve the fit and comfort of a denture. If you’ve been thinking that you need a new denture, you may be pleasantly surprised to know that a reline may be all that’s required!

Why Do Dentures Need To Be Relined?

Denture relines are a normal and expected procedure. Estimated to be done every two to three years, a reline is required when a denture no longer fits the contours of gum tissue and bone levels. We all know that bodies change and the mouth is no exception. The levels of gum and bone tissue change due to natural aging, weight loss, further tooth removal, illness, and the resorption of bone and gum with long-term denture wear. With changes to jaw bone and gum tissue comes a tendency for dentures to become loose and not fit snugly in the mouth. A denture that moves during functional movements such as eating and speech can not only be annoying but also cause sore spots due to constant friction.

What is a Soft Denture Liner?

A soft liner is shock absorption for a denture. Used in both upper and lower dentures to help cushion bone and gum tissue against the inside of a denture, a soft reline enables a person to continue wearing a denture even in situations when significant bone loss has occurred and where gum tissue has remodelled after years of denture wear. Made from medical grade soft polymer, a soft liner is applied directly to an existing denture creating a softer, more cushioned fit that can slow the progression of gum and bone loss. Suitable to be used with dentures that are in good condition, a soft reline is used to enhance the fit and feel of one that no longer functions optimally and is effective in reducing discomfort in mouths that have minimal gum tissue over bony ridges.

How To Care For a Soft Liner

As with all removable dentures a denture that has a soft reline does need to be removed at bedtime so that it can be thoroughly cleaned. Brushing a soft liner should be done with a brush that won’t damage material but is capable of removing food debris and plaque.

Not sure if you need a reline or a new denture? Need a denture adjustment in Calgary but don’t know where to go? Call South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic today – 403.254.5000

Everybody is busy, it doesn’t matter if you’re retired, busy gardening, golfing or a top executive who runs from one meeting to the next. There aren’t many people who have all day to lounge around, or hide indoors while their teeth are being fixed! Denture wearers are often challenged with how to get-by while teeth are being repaired or a new denture is being made. Add to the frustration the costs involved in making, fixing, relining, and adjusting a denture. Finding a denture clinic that offers services that make your life easier is important, that way you’ve always got something to smile about.

Same Day Repairs and Adjustments

Who wants to drop-off a denture and then try and make it home without running into friends? no one! The team at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic understand that service doesn’t stop once the denture is made, but is needed throughout the lifespan of the appliance. We all know accidents can happen, and that includes mishaps with dentures that lead to emergency repairs. Being able to get your denture fixed in a day, while you relax in the chair, enables patients to deal with the unexpected with just a short interruption to their day. With advice on how to avoid breakages and how to care for your denture to maximize function and longevity, the team at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic have got you covered.

Screening for Oral Cancers and Other Tissue Changes

Just because you don’t have natural teeth anymore doesn’t mean that exams and tissue screening is no longer needed. Oral cancer isn’t something anyone wants to have to deal with, but the reality is that it happens and can spread quickly when not diagnosed early. Implementing the use of the VELscope VX the denturists at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic are able to quickly and easily detect pre-malignancies and other changes to oral tissue. Coupled with a physical exam of patients oral tissues, dental health can be enhanced with early detection and intervention. Visiting a denturist that cares for your denture and your oral health is important for optimal long-term dental health.

Off-site Denturist Services

Unfortunately not everyone is physically able to travel to a denture appointment. Lack of consistent care not only compromises the integrity of the denture but can lead to oral discomfort due to sore spots, inflamed bone, and jaw joint pain. Using a denture clinic that will visit onsite to a care facility can make a difference to a patient’s level of comfort and give a social boost to a person’s day.

Flexible Finance Options

Having a new denture made or having to cover the cost for repairs can be a stretch for some. Unexpected breakages and normal wear-and-tear of a denture can add up, often leaving a person with the tough position of having to go without teeth while they save for treatment costs. Flexible finance options can soften the blow of denture costs and provide an opportunity to never be without a great smile.

Talk to the team at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic today about services designed to make you smile 403.254.5000

Did you know that 1 in 4 Canadians wear a denture?  If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about joining the denture club you should know that you’re not alone. There are plenty of people around you who are living great lives with the use of dentures. First time denture wearers can feel overwhelmed at the thought of no longer having natural teeth and worry about day-to-day actions like eating and smiling. The reality is, just with anything new, there is a transition period needed to get used to the new feelings and function of a denture. But once you’ve adapted to your new appliance you’ll be amazed at just how natural it feels.

Getting Used To Your New Denture

When you first wear your denture it may feel uncomfortable and you may have a hard time pronouncing words in the first few days. This is perfectly normal, as the cheeks and tongue have to adapt to the change and form around the new appliance. You may also notice excess saliva in the first few days, this again is normal and will subside in a few days once oral tissues become familiar with there being something new in the mouth.

Cleaning Your Denture

Keeping your denture clean and free from dental plaque and food debris is essential to the health of your mouth and appliance. Dental plaque doesn’t just form on natural teeth, it also develops on dentures and contains the same inflammatory bacteria that irritate gums. After the initial few days of wearing your denture 24/7 your denturist will advise you to remove the denture at night so that the appliance can be cleaned and gums and jaw bone have a chance to relax and breathe. Keeping your denture in overnight is a big no-no as constant wear contributes to sore-spots and growth of bacteria on the underside of the denture.

You May Need an Adjustment or Two

Don’t be surprised if you need your denture adjusted a couple of times in the initial weeks of wear. Oral tissue can be inflamed initially; especially if tooth extraction was involved prior to the denture being inserted. Inflammation will subside over a few days, resulting in the denture to feel too large or loose. Seeing your denturist for a couple of adjustments in the early days is not only to be expected but a great opportunity to ensure that the denture fits perfectly.

Eating Soft Foods At First

As you adapt to eating with your denture, you will be able to introduce a greater range of textures, but in the early days it’s best to stick to soft foods that don’t require excessive chewing. Supporting gum tissue is getting used to having a denture sit on top of it, so it can be tender during the first weeks of wear. Babying it by eating soft food will prevent further tissue aggravation and give you an opportunity to adapt to eating with a denture.

For more information on wearing a denture or having a new denture made – contact South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic today 403.254.5000

You’re thrilled with your new dentures and the freedom they provide to enjoy your food and to smile with confidence. Keeping your dentures in prime condition can extend the life of the appliances and make sure they function optimally while remaining comfortable. But just like natural teeth, dentures are also a target for dental plaque and stains from highly pigmented foods. Preserving the health and beauty of your dentures involves steps similar to caring for natural teeth and provide the same rewards, such as fresh breath, a white smile, and healthy oral tissues. So how do you keep your denture looking brand new? Here are 3 easy steps that make a big difference.

• Brush Your Denture

Whether you’re sporting what mother nature gave you or beautiful new dentures, you just can’t escape the need to brush! All dentures require this daily habit, as brushing removes food debris that can easily get caught and stuck under a denture. Removing debris prevents harmful bacteria from having a source of energy to feed on, and when bacteria are less active, their inflammatory attack on oral tissue is reduced. It’s important to use a brush specifically designed for dentures, as most ‘regular’ toothbrushes are not made for acrylic. Using a denture brush will prevent the denture from becoming scratched, which creates further areas for bacteria (plaque) to hide. Since plaque forms on dentures just like regular teeth, brushing at least twice a day helps remove this sticky substance and prevents mouth odors associated with an overgrowth of bacteria.

• A Good Soak Does Your Dentures Good

You know how good it feels to soak your tired, sore muscles at the end of the day?  Well, imagine how refreshing it feels for a hard working denture that’s been chewing food and creating a great smile. Soaking your denture in a product recommended by your denturist is a great step in ensuring all microorganisms are killed. Though you may be brushing your dentures, you can’t always see and remove every small trace of plaque and food. Letting your dentures sit in a special soak means that every surface of the denture remains free from organisms that can stain teeth, weaken the denture, and cause bad breath. The other bonus for removing your denture every night to soak is that your sore gums and jaw bones get a well-deserved rest, and any sore spots have a chance to heal.

• Stay Away From Foods That Stain

Just like real teeth, dentures are also prone to darkening and staining when exposed to certain food groups. That glass of red wine and daily cup of java can dull a denture over time, but if you’re diligent with brushing and soaking your denture, surface stains should be easily removed. To make sure your denture is always looking its best, try to brush after eating foods, especially those with red and yellow spices, as these stains can quickly spoil a smile. Nicotine can also quickly dull even the newest of dentures, as the heat from tobacco makes denture material more susceptible to nicotine staining.

Need help keeping your denture looking and feeling good? Maintaining regular appointments with your denturist is a great way to ensure your denture not only looks great, but fits comfortably and functions well.  For more information regarding denture care, contact South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic today – 403.254.5000.

Wearing anything that doesn’t fit properly is just no fun. From tight shoes to saggy pants, when our clothes don’t fit our body, it’s time to consider replacing the them. The same is true with a denture – when it doesn’t fit comfortably, daily habits of speaking and chewing can become frustrating and even painful. Discomfort is obviously the number one reason patients decide to get a new denture, but there are other reasons that prompt a visit to the denturist with the goal of having new teeth made.

A Broken Appliance is No Fun to Wear

Accidents happen, and life can throw a curveball at us sometimes. If the curveball happens to land on your denture, it’s not going to end well. While strong, dentures are not indestructible, and can become weak from long-time wear and minor fixes. When a denture breaks, it becomes almost impossible to wear due to the resulting instability and challenges it creates while chewing and talking. The instability can also cause gums to become inflamed as the broken denture rubs against tissue.

Grinding Has Worn Your Denture

One thing that natural teeth and all forms of dentures have in common is that grinding (bruxism) can wear both natural and artificial teeth. Over time, you may notice that the teeth in your denture appear short or misshapen. Though dentures are made from highly durable materials, the effect of daily grinding can flatten even the best made denture, changing a person’s bite and potentially leading to jaw joint discomfort. Grinding isn’t usually a balanced force, and happens more often on certain teeth, causing inflammation of gum and bone in these areas.

Your Denture is Too Heavily Stained

Our previous blog gives tips on how to keep your denture looking clean and bright, something that involves daily maintenance of appliances. Unfortunately, when dentures have not been brushed and or soaked on a daily basis, certain stains become ingrained in the acrylic and can no longer be removed. Wearing a stained denture dulls a person’s smile and gives an older look to a young-at-heart individual. A new denture can restore a person’s quality of smile and confidence.

Your Denture No Longer Fits

Just like a broken denture is no fun to wear, so is a denture that no longer fits. A denture that moves during speech and eating, along with rubbing on gum tissue and causing sore spots, are typical frustrations that develop when a person’s mouth becomes smaller due to weight loss, natural aging, illness, or trauma. Having a new denture made to fit your mouth not only restores comfort and functionality, it also restores the contours of the face, giving a more youthful look.

Having to replace a denture to improve wear, functionality, comfort or esthetics is expected after several years of use. The team at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic are focused on ensuring that every denture is custom-made to meet the unique requirements of each patient. If your denture is ready to be replaced, contact the team today and discover how quickly you can have a new smile. 403.254.5000

It’s hard to lose teeth as an adult. For one thing, the Tooth Fairy doesn’t visit us when we place a tooth under our pillow and pulling-off a gappy smile is so much harder. On the bright side, there is more than one option for replacing teeth.

Dental Implants

When it comes to replacing natural teeth, nothing quite compares to dental implants due to the fact that they are designed to perform like the root of a natural tooth. First introduced by the Mayan civilization when shells were placed in jaw bone to create a very basic implant, today’s dental implants have advanced significantly since they were first placed in a human mouth in 1965. Made from titanium; dental implants are generally very well accepted by the human body and can remain fully functional for several decades. Used to replace just a single or a full complement of teeth, dental implants are a great option for patients who would like the closest-to-nature result implants provide. Great for patients who have already lost many or all teeth, as a denture can be designed to clip on to implants – creating a strong grip and functional bite.

Partial Dentures

If having dental implants placed seems a little extreme, there are still a couple of options left for tooth replacement. A partial denture is a popular choice for patients missing one or several teeth in the same arch. Custom designed to integrate with remaining natural teeth, a partial denture can often be a great option for patients contemplating implant or bridge placement. Made to fit the uniqueness of a person’s bite, a partial denture is worth considering when only a handful of teeth are missing.

Full Dentures

The term full denture is used when a patient is missing all of either their top or bottom teeth. Probably still the most popular treatment solution for patients missing all their natural teeth, a full denture can be made to look, perform, and feel as close to the real thing. Removable, unless made to attach to implants for additional stability, a full denture does require some getting used to as it needs to be removed at bedtime and cared for in a way that both the denture and oral tissues remain healthy.

Living with missing teeth can be hard, but once you’ve chosen the right dental solution that gives you back your teeth, you’ll be smiling in no time.

Need help deciding what type of denture is right for you? Contact the team at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic – they’re happy to answer your questions. 403.254.5000

Flopping into bed after a busy day without brushing our teeth is something we’re all guilty of. For patients with natural teeth the downside to not brushing or flossing is increased risk of dental decay and gum inflammation due to plaque left on tooth surfaces. Even for patients who no longer have their own pearly whites there is still a need to avoid hitting the hay without removing their dentures, as sleeping with an appliance is also a detriment to oral health.

Shortens The Lifespan of a Denture

Dentures might be sturdy, but they’re not foolproof, especially when it comes to dealing with oral bacteria. Just like plaque (bacteria) sticks to natural teeth and gums, it also accumulates on dentures, causing them to become slimy and smelly and weakening their integrity due to bacterial activity. No one wants to have to replace their dentures prematurely, and keeping them in tip top condition is a sure way to extend their life and performance.

Supporting Tissue Becomes Inflamed

Unlike a denture that is supported by implants, a routine partial or full denture sits right on top of gum tissue and is supported by underlying bone. Gum tissue normally would sit around the neck of a tooth but is never ever completely covered by a tooth or any other part of the mouth. When a denture is never removed gum tissue can quickly become inflamed due to the constant pressure exerted by the denture and the lack of exposure to air. Taking your denture out at bedtime gives oral tissues a well-earned break and gives you an opportunity to remove oral bacteria that may be stuck to gums.

If You Grind, Your Jaws Won’t Be Happy

Wearing a denture doesn’t exclude you from clenching and grinding – a habit that puts tremendous force on bone and joints. Waking with a sore jaw and joints that crack and pop is just another indication that dentures aren’t made to be worn 24/7 as overuse can cause issues for other oral tissues and joints.

Been wearing your dentures to bed? Make today the day you keep your dentures out when you sleep! Your mouth will thank you for it.

For more tips on how to care for your dentures, contact South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic today at 403.254.5000

Having a healthy relationship with your denturist is the best way to ensure your expectations are met through concerned listening, honest treatment recommendations, and respect for your overall dental health. When two people don’t jive well together it’s much harder to communicate effectively and feel a sense of mutual respect – something that is needed when discussing any aspect of health and wellbeing. Though you may be tempted to try the denture clinic closest to home because of convenience, make sure that the level of care is of the highest standard.

Patient Comfort is Your Denturist’s Top Priority

There’s nothing worse than purchasing a service only to be disappointed with the final product,  and this holds true when it comes to all types of dentures. A patient’s level of comfort has to be at the top of a denturist’s list of priorities, because if a patient is experiencing any form of ongoing discomfort chances are high that the denture does not fit ideally – causing oral tissues to become inflamed and sore. Being able to talk to your denturist about comfort is important, as a denture may need several adjustments before it fits perfectly.

Treatment Is Custom Designed For You

A person’s oral health is unique to them and comes with concerns, issues, and challenges that need to be acknowledged. A patient-centred denturist is able to resist the urge to dictate treatment choices and can provide treatment solutions that will best serve the patient in the long-term. Suggesting treatment options that may not originally have been thought of ensures that a patient makes an informed decision and is aware of the benefits each treatment plan offers.

Your Oral Health Is Important

Your denturist is part of the dental community and works closely with dentists and specialists so that a patient’s entire dental health needs are met. Partial denture wearers still have natural teeth that need to be maintained with regular cleanings and exams. A concerned denturist will encourage patients to stay up-to-date with their general dental appointments so that remaining natural teeth are healthy enough to support a denture.

A Beautiful, Functional Bite Is The Goal

Creating a beautiful smile is just part of any treatment plan. Having a beautiful smile that is functional and enables a patient to eat, talk, and smile with confidence is top priority. Working with a denturist that focuses on the functionality of a denture is important, as it has to perform as close to natural teeth as possible. Creating a customized denture that looks good, fits perfectly, and performs optimally is the trademark of a great denturist.

The team at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic welcome new patients – call today for a consultation 403.254.5000

Maintaining a healthy and varied diet can be challenging for people who wear a partial or full denture due to the limitations of chewing and chomping through certain food groups. And though a denture can closely resemble natural teeth – they can’t always create the same force and stability when it comes to eating all foods. But nobody wants to live in dread of not enjoying meals and snacks – so with a few slight adjustments to a diet even denture wearers can get the most from their dentures and food.

Chewy and Sticky Food Can Pose Challenges

If Tootsie Rolls aren’t great for natural teeth it only makes sense that they aren’t going to be the best for dentures. Sticky and super chewy food can cause challenges for those who are fortunate to have their own teeth – and can prove to be an even greater challenge for those trying to eat with a denture. The stickiness of toffee and other candies can quickly cause a denture to become dislodged – resulting in discomfort to the wearer and risk of damage to the appliance itself. Loaded with sugar that oral bacteria thrive on – sticky food also increases the formation of plaque on a denture, which in turn contributes to gum inflammation and bad breath.

Nuts and Seeds – Get Stuck Under Appliances

Nuts and seeds are powerhouses when it comes to nutritional value and ease of eating. There’s no better snack than a handful of nuts and seeds – but boy can they cause discomfort due to getting stuck under and around a denture. Having a seed lodged between a denture and gum tissue can be a trigger for inflammation – increasing the risk for a sore spot that prevents a denture from being worn comfortably

Really Hard Food – Requires Balanced Force

As tempting as it might be to try and chew through a hard piece of food, the reality is that it requires distribution of balanced force on both sides of the denture – something that is very hard to create – especially with a traditional denture compared to an implant supported appliance. The resulting imbalance in force can cause a denture to become dislodged on one side and creates the perfect scenario for the issue of pressure sores.

Chewing Gum – It’s Just Not Going To End Well

Avoiding chewing gum is probably at the top of most denture wearers list. How much fun can you have when your piece of minty gum is stuck to the roof of your mouth or some other part of your denture? Gum just isn’t meant to be eaten around any appliance that it can adhere itself too and cause a sticky mess.

Avoid Dehydrating Food and Drink – So That Tissue Stays Hydrated

For a denture to fit and perform optimally oral tissue needs to be moist and plump – something that can be quickly diminished when eating salty foods and drinking caffeinated drinks. The reduction in saliva that occurs when a person is dehydrated can contribute to a lack of suction – which makes a denture feel loose and difficult to eat with.

Not sure if you’re eating the right food for your dental health? Chat with the denturists at South Calgary Denture and Implant Clinic and discover what the best food is for your smile. 403.254.5000

Technology designed to improve the aesthetics and function of a smile has greatly impacted the world of natural and replacement teeth in the past ten years, and is witnessed specifically in procedures and appliances centred around the use of dental implants. Once considered to be an exclusive treatment option, only offered to patients missing single teeth – the placement of dental implants has expanded to include patients missing several natural teeth, to those who are edentulous (missing all natural teeth) and already wearing a denture. Combining the use of implants with dentures has enabled patients to achieve superior comfort and stability along with a level of confidence that comes with an implant supported denture.

Is A Non Removable Denture Right For You?
When faced with the option of choosing a non-removable denture it’s helpful to understand what’s involved with this form of appliance compared to others. Not all dentures are created equal as each type is designed to fulfill a specific goal for a specific patient. From a partial denture designed to replace one or several teeth, to a full upper or lower denture that is made to be removed at bedtime – choosing the right denture involves understanding the advantages that are unique to each one. A non-removable denture clearly offers a very obvious advantage – the fact that it’s non-removable and designed to remain in the mouth – functioning much like natural teeth. But apart from this one clear advantage, there are a few others that provide patients with a better smile and functioning bite.

• No more nighttime removal
  This pro may not seem that much of an advantage – but if you’re someone who battles with embarrassment associated with having to remove your denture at night – this advantage can make life seem way easier. No glass at the side of the bed, or mug in the bathroom holding a soaking denture – with non-removable dentures they get to stay in your mouth even during the night.

• No more brushing your denture over the sink
  Maybe taking a denture out to clean it is an ok option for some patients – but for those who worry about dropping and breaking their denture while cleaning it may enjoy the ease that comes with brushing teeth as normal – while they’re still in the mouth. With a regular toothbrush and paste a non-removable denture can be easily cleaned to both look, and feel great. Tablets and liquids designed for soaking a denture are not required.

• No more denture adhesive
  If you’re tired of always having to place adhesive under your denture to ensure a firm grip – a non-removable denture completely eliminates the need for all forms of adhesive. The very nature of a non-removable denture means it’s not moving – regardless of what you eat and how excitedly you cheer for your sports team. The risk of your denture being dislodged doesn’t exist.

• No more avoiding your favourite food
  This advantage is probably the most impactful as food is no longer the enemy, but something to enjoy and savour. With a traditional denture some foods are hard to chew adequately – making mealtimes stressful and the resulting indigestion painful. Non-removable dentures are able to exert so much more force during chewing – meaning steak is back on the menu and meals are something to look forward to.

• No more sore spots or painful gums
  Unlike a traditional denture that sits directly on gum and jaw bone; a non-removable denture sits on top of the implant – preventing pressure being exerted on oral tissue and reducing the risk of sore spots developing. The reduction in pain enables patients to go about their day looking great and feeling an increased level of comfort.

Non-removable dentures may just be the closest thing to natural teeth and are available at South Calgary Denture and Implant Centre. Call today for a consultation and find out if an implant supported denture is right for you – 403.254.5000