Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that choosing the right denture clinic is an important decision, and you may have a few questions along the way. Whether you’re wondering about our treatment options, appointment availability, or what to expect during your visit, we’ve compiled answers to the most common inquiries to help you feel informed and confident. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help!
Can I sleep with my dentures?
There may well be genuine reasons why you would want to sleep with your dentures in at night but it is preferred that they be removed. This will give your gums and bone a chance to relax from the pressure of the denture during the day. If you need to wear your dentures for social reasons or to prevent your jaws from over closing, you should find time during the day to properly clean your mouth as well as your dentures. You should never wear your dentures 24 hours a day without preforming proper oral hygiene.
I need new dentures. Where do I start?
You do not require a referral. Our initial step is to contact us to determine the most suitable denture option for your needs. As a Dental Prosthetist, we provide both clinical and laboratory services, fabricating all aspects of your dentures in-house. This comprehensive approach allows us to custom-fit and design dentures that precisely meet your individual requirements. Why not book on line for a free denture check? Book here
How long do Dentures last?
Dentures aren’t a “set-and-forget” solution; they’re more like a partnership with your oral health that needs regular check-ins.
Why Regular Reviews Matter- Your gums and jawbone will change over time, especially with tooth loss, which affects fit and function.
- Poorly fitting dentures can lead to ulcers, infections, and even bone resorption.
- Materials degrade, teeth stain or wear down, and what once looked and felt natural may need a refresh.
- Every 1–2 years: Check-ups for relines or adjustments.
- 6–8 years: Typical lifespan before full replacement is advised.
- Beyond 10 years: Risk of serious fit and hygiene issues increases — even if they “still feel fine.”
- Do i need regular check ups?? click here
- Contact our clinic for a FREE appointment.
What is a Denture Reline and why do I need one?
A reline is the process of replacing the old fitting surface of an older denture with an updated new one ( think of a new sole on a shoe?)
Denture relines are necessary in order to accomplish several goals. These goals include:
Increasing retention and vertical height of old, existing dentures or new dentures that, for one reason or another, have lost retention. Often due to recent extractions or sometimes due to surgical oral procedures.
Relining of old dentures to prolong the necessity of making new dentures.
Is it possible to have dentures inserted straight after extractions?
Yes, you can have one or all your teeth extracted and new dentures fitted immediately. We make your dentures using a plaster model. Once completed your dentist will extract and insert our dentures immediately. They are referred to as immediate or temporary dentures.
What if new Dentures hurt or don’t feel like a good fit?
Upon receiving a new denture, whether full or partial, regardless of the material used (acrylic, chrome cobalt, or thermoplastic), it is imperative to acknowledge the necessity of the settling-in process.
Patience, perseverance, and the understanding to schedule adjustments are key to achieving quick improvement and success. Dentures are hard materials that may occasionally rub against soft tissue, causing discomfort and annoyance. Of course if you come for an adjustment we cannot directly perceive these sensations, so you wearing the denture (if feasible) helps us in identifying areas of concern. This allows us to pinpoint specific regions where discomfort can be alleviated.
For relief try to adjust your diet, eating softer food and cutting it into smaller pieces can minimise pressure upon your gums. Leaving your dentures out over night will give your gums and muscles a rest and allow for some recovery.
For relief try to adjust your diet, eating softer food and cutting it into smaller pieces can minimise pressure upon your gums. Leaving your dentures out over night will give your gums and muscles a rest and allow for some recovery.
Will I be able to eat anything?
Most patients require time to learn proper denture usage, which may initially affect eating habits. After some adjustment, you should be able to eat normally, but harder or stickier foods may still require additional time to become comfortable with.
Nuts are difficult but some people can manage others cannot.
We don’t recommend chewing gum whilst wearing dentures regardless of the chewing gum brand chosen.
Can I get extractions or fillings done?
No , we do not pull nor fill teeth. As a Denture Clinic we provide you with removable dental appliances such as , all types of dentures ( false teeth) . Check our services section for more information.Risks and consequences wearing a partial denture
In most cases removable partial dentures are a cost effective and successful replacement for
“missing teeth” but as with all removable prosthetic treatment some risk exists depending on how well you look after your own teeth and gums and how you maintain your denture.
Most common risks and consequences include:
- Tooth Decay/Oral infection or inflammation: good oral hygiene is very important. Remove your denture when cleaning your natural teeth. Do not allow food remains to gather around clasps or hooks. If possible, rinse and clean after each meal and remove denture during sleep
- Soreness: During the settling process the denture may rub or pressure your teeth or gums. Sore spots and/or ulcers may occur soon after the denture is fitted. Persevere but always return for adjustment(s) and fine tuning if symptoms persist.
- Speaking: may be altered for a short period of time until the tongue and your lips adjust to the new denture. Speech improvement usually occurs very quickly.
- Eating: chewing your food may be altered depending on variables such as stability, possible discomfort and the ability to provide the degree of retention – in time and with practice this will usually improve
- Taste and texture: Materials used for the construction of dentures may alter your taste of food, especially if the dentures are not cleaned properly. On the odd occasion rough or matt areas can be felt, return to our Denture Clinic if of concern
- Staining/Plaque: The build-up of plaque and stain on dentures can be minimised by applying techniques as recommend by your Dental Practitioner. Apart from good oral hygiene avoiding such items as coffee, tea certain spices and tobacco to reduce staining. Inappropriate and/or irregular cleaning can cause for plaque and bacteria to build up. This bacteria can be ingested.
- Odour: Tiny food debris can build up and therefore cause odour.
- Food under denture or around clasps: often unavoidable as food may get into the space between the denture and your gums or teeth during eating. The denture should be removed for cleaning possibly after each meal.
- Breakage or chipping: No parts are unbreakable. Just like your natural teeth can break, dentures can also become damaged. Biting into hard food, trauma to the mouth or dropping the denture are possible causes of causing breakage, chipping or loss of clasps.
- Reline/Remake: With recently extracted teeth the shape and size of your gums and bone will change overtime therefore a new fit of your denture may be needed. Dentures may well need to be relined or renewed depending on age and condition.
Good Comfort: The role you play
It is essential that patients wear their new dentures consistently during the initial adaptation period to facilitate necessary clinical adjustments. Continuous wear (not at night time) enables the prosthesis to interact with the oral tissues, revealing pressure points or friction-related concerns that may not be immediately apparent. Early discomfort is not uncommon and should be monitored closely.
Upon attending follow-up appointments, it is imperative that patients present any areas of irritation, including red spots or visible pressure marks on the gingiva. Such indicators serve as precise visual references, allowing the clinician to modify the denture accurately and avoid misaligned or unnecessary adjustments.
Can I claim for denture procedures?
Patients with private major dental insurance can submit claims for prosthetic treatments such as dentures, relines, and repairs through the HICAPS system. This process involves the processing of your claim, immediate collection of the funds, and subsequent charging of the difference between the insured amount and the actual treatment cost. Payment options include EFTPOS, credit card, cheque, or cash.
Can I claim my dentures through the government?
The straightforward answer is no. If you however have private health insurance, you can make a claim. There is a scheme under the Victorian Scheme (VDS) only for people who hold a health care card. Unfortunately, we made the decision no longer to participate in this scheme. For more about VDS, please refer to the provided link.
VDS info here
Can I get my dentures under the Victorian Denture scheme?
If you have a health care card or a pensioner concession card, the Victorian Denture Scheme (VDS) provides eligible Victorians with access to dental services for no fee or a small fee, covering the cost of new dentures.
You may well be placed on a waiting list to gain access. You will need to obtain a voucher by applying at your local community dental clinic to receive such services but only from a "participating" private dental or denture clinic. Sadly, the Bullen Denture Clinic has decided to no longer participate in this scheme.
For more information go to Vouchers | dhsv.org.au
Do you provide dentures under DVA?
Yes we do. With a DVA Gold Card, veterans are entitled to comprehensive dental care, including dentures. The Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) will cover the costs your dentures, provided they are clinically necessary.
What are your trading hours?
Our standard business hours are weekdays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with morning appointments available on weekends. Please note that visits are by appointment only. You can book a time online or by phone, any day of the week — including Saturdays and Sundays
How long does it take to make a denture?
Dentures typically require a production period of 3 to 5 weeks. The duration of this process is influenced by the availability of both parties and the specific type of denture required. At least three to five appointments are typically necessary for the production and fitting of dentures.
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Are there different type of teeth on dentures?
Indeed, there are numerous types of teeth that can be fabricated on a denture. Historically, porcelain materials were used for teeth on dentures, but this material proved to be unsuitable due to its excessive hardness. Not only did it cause chipping of teeth, but it also accelerated the wear and tear of gums.
In the present day, acrylic teeth are commonly used, which can be constructed with multiple layers that mimic natural characteristics. These teeth come in a wide range of shades and qualities.
What are you payment plans-methods
Our Payment Plans Our Denture Clinic utilises a computerised billing system to ensure that each patient receives a comprehensive account for accurate record-keeping of payments. Typically, there are four visits. A deposit is required, and payment is made at each visit. The final payment can be made at the last visit. Appointments can be spread out to allow for more time to pay if necessary.
Do you have payment plans?
Typically, there are four visits. A deposit is required, and payment is made at each visit. The final payment can be made at the last visit. Appointments can be spread out to allow for more time to pay if necessary. Our Denture Clinic utilise a computerised billing system to ensure that each patient receives a comprehensive account for accurate record-keeping of payments.
Our Aim and Purpose
We do not charge a fee unless we believe we can help and provide you with a dental appliance that you can wear successfully. Our aim is to provide you with dentures that work well and look great. We cannot achieve this without your cooperation. You must wear your dentures to allow for settling in time and return to us when necessary for adjustments. As a rule, we do not undertake work we do not believe we can improve upon. We offer a free assessment to determine which type of denture may be best for you.
I have missing teeth, what can you do?
There are various alternative options available to replace missing teeth, with wearing a partial denture being one of them. It is a widely accepted and successful solution but still considered a poor substitute compared to having one's own "real teeth." Many people are satisfied with their false teeth once they have learned how to speak, eat, and understand what type of food they can consume. However, some individuals experience difficulty. Perseverance, patience, and seeking our assistance will lead to a satisfactory and good outcome. We are here to help!
Do you make dentures that click into my mouth?
YES WE DO PROVIDE THEM also known as "implant retained dentures, implant supported over-dentures and dentures over implants”
Why consider this treatment?
This information is for people who are having difficulty wearing their upper or lower dentures and keeping them securely and confidently in their mouth. Having a loose and uncomfortable lower denture is far more common than that of an upper one. Upper dentures have the advantage to adhere to the roof of the mouth (suction), lower dentures don’t, they often just sit there. During eating and speaking a lower denture needs to be manipulated by the tongue, lip and cheek muscles in order to succeed. Some people struggle with developing a good technique therefore some people can’t bite into an apple whilst others can. Having these types of dentures will make the denture “click into place firmly".
About the surgery?
We refer you to a registered specialist. We work with a prosthodontist as we believe they have a “finely tuned” understanding where best to position the implants. Following a thorough consultation and x-rays to determine best outcomes the implants are carefully placed into your jawbone. These days, with well-developed techniques, this procedure does not take long. In most cases two implants take approximately 1-2 hrs to do. They are positioned under the gum, thus become invisible to the eye. After minor adjustment to your existing denture you should be able to continue wearing it for the required three months to allow for solid bone integration. The specialist will test the implants following by exposure of the tops so metal caps can be attached. This procedure will allow us to provide specially made denture inserts to click on top of those caps.Who can have implants?
Implants have been provided to young and old, those who may have diabetes or other chronic conditions. The specialist does all necessary investigative processes to insure you are a suitable patient. We welcome your contact or visit to discuss such alternative procedure in greater detail. We work as part of a wider dental team to avail you of the best possible outcome.
What happens to my new dentures after recent extractions ?
There will be substantial bone absorption and gum shrinkage around the extractions and this will continue to happen for approx. 12 months or more before it slows down.
You will likely require to have ongoing adjustments and possibly temporary linings done in order to improve the fit and comfort of your denture(s).
When the bone absorption has slowed you will then need a permanent lining placed into the denture(s).
How much do dentures cost?
Denture fees vary significantly based on several factors, including the complexity of your specific denture treatment, the duration required to complete it, and the materials utilised. Upon your consultation, we will discuss your options, present you with samples, and provide you with a comprehensive written treatment plan that outlines all pricing details.
It is understandable that you may require an initial estimate. Typically, a denture for each jaw ranges from $1200 to $2000
Why have regular check ups?
If ever a sore or growth is discovered, you should immediately seek advice. These areas may be quite harmless, and only require minor adjustment to the denture, but only professional knowledge can evaluate and rectify the situation. Consider a free denture check up
Look out for other symptoms that may occur:
- Cracked and continually sore corners of the mouth
- A dull pain in, or about the ear.
- Impaired hearing
- A stuffy or stopping sensation in the ears, continuous, or with intervals of improvement.
- A clicking or snapping noise when chewing
- Mild or severe dizziness
- Headache
- A burning sensation in the throat, tongue and side of the nose.
- We invite you to ring our clinic to make a suitable time for a FREE appointment.
Do i need a regular denture check up?
We invite you to ring our clinic to make a suitable time for a FREE appointment.
Don't consider your current dentures as permanent. It's a common misconception that dentures last 10-20 years. They should be reviewed every 2 years and possibly replaced after 6-8 years.
Dentures wear out and change shape over time, and so do the supporting tissues. Even comfortable dentures need regular checks to prevent damage to your mouth or ear joints.
Seek advice immediately if you find any sores or growths. These might be harmless and only need minor adjustments, but only a professional can assess them properly.
Watch for symptoms like:
- Cracked corners of the mouth
- Ear pain or impaired hearing
- Stuffy ears or clicking when chewing
- Dizziness or headaches
- Burning in the throat, tongue, or nose
What is an immediate Denture?
Immediate Dentures: What You Need To Know
Immediate dentures are a temporary solution provided on the same day as tooth extractions. These dentures help maintain your appearance, speech, and ability to eat while your gums heal.
We work in close collaboration with your or our dentist to identify which teeth need removal and to ensure a smooth transition to your denture.
Healing & Changes
Healing gums naturally shrink, which may affect the fit of your denture. To keep things comfortable and functional, your denture may need:
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Relining or adjustments
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In some cases, a complete remake
Why a Try-In Is Recommended
Whenever possible, we suggest extracting teeth before fabricating your denture. This allows for a try-in stage—an essential step to confirm fit, comfort, and appearance before finalizing.
Immediate dentures cannot be tried in ahead of time since your natural teeth are still in place during fabrication.
Can Dentures be repaired or adjusted?
Yes, if a denture or a tooth breaks than we can repair it. This is not a simple process as sometimes an impression of the mouth may need to be taken. Gluing it together yourself is not advisable as this process may render the repair as unrepairable. There is also possible toxicity of the glue.
Adjustments can be done but should always be done by us as wrong adjustment could have a dire and undesirable effect.
If your denture breaks:
- Keep all the broken pieces together safely until you come to see us
- Never attempt to repair the broken denture yourself. Never use Super Glue or DIY Denture Repair kits can cause further damage and render the denture irreparable.
- Ensure that your denture is repaired by a qualified professional who possesses the necessary expertise and equipment to execute a proper repair.
Are Dentures noticeable?
Natural-Looking Dentures: Shaped by Your Choices
Properly designed dentures shouldn’t look false—they should reflect your individuality. Much depends on your facial features, personal preferences, and expectations. While some patients prefer teeth that are bright white and perfectly aligned, it’s important to understand that natural teeth, especially in later years, typically have subtle variations in shade, shape, and alignment.
We believe that your denture should enhance your appearance without sacrificing realism. That’s why we offer wax try-in visits as part of the fabrication process. These appointments allow:
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You and your loved ones to preview the denture
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Opportunities to give feedback on tooth shape, position, and shade
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Collaborative decision-making before final consent is given
This step is invaluable—it ensures you’re confident in how your denture will look before it's completed.
call us or make an appointment nowCan Dentures Improve My Smile and Facial Appearance?
Yes, they can fill out your face and improve your smile especially when numerous teeth are missing. Dentures fill the gaps of missing teeth and allow for greater cheek and muscular support. Often this can prevent an early onset of an "aged look" , prevent getting folds and wrinkles. In almost every case new dentures improve the look of a persons smile.
Do you do “Emergency” Denture Repairs?
In summary, the answer is YES but please note that the meaning "emergency" is subjective and depends on what you personally define as an emergency.
Common Reasons for Emergency Repairs:It often occurs when you least anticipate it—on your commute to work, just before an event, or when friends are visiting. If your denture is repairable we attempt to do it asap, meaning with in hours not days (rare conditions apply). Emergency denture repairs are crucial when dentures break or crack unexpectedly, as they are essential for eating, speaking, and facial structure. After hours or weekend service attracts an additional fee so please contact us? If you have major dental insurance you will be able claim. After hours appointment can be made 7 days a week (if available)
- Dropped dentures: Falling onto hard surfaces can cause fractures or chips. Be careful when cleaning in the shower or over a ceramic basin.
- Biting into hard food: Tough foods can lead to cracks.
- Wear and tear: Dentures may weaken and break over time. If this occurs you should visit us for a free denture check