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Frequently
Asked Questions

General FAQs

How much do dentures cost?

This is the one of the most common questions asked over the phone prior to the appointment. Even though our office managers have good general knowledge regarding various types of dentures, they cannot give you an accurate answer over the phone without proper assessment by a denturist. There are various types of dentures that we offer ranging from $520 and up to $25,000. It is not possible to judge the situation in your mouth over the phone, that is why we offer complimentary consultations where our denturists will discuss your needs, assess your mouth and based on these findings and your desires will be able to present treatment options for you.

How often should dentures be replaced?

A denture relining is recommended every two to three years to help restore the fit. It is recommended to replace dentures every five to eight years. An annual appointment with your denturist at Apple Denture & Implant Solutions will help ensure that you are aware of the condition of your dentures and avoid potential problems.

During the first two to three years your dentures will have the best fit, function and appearance. After this time all dentures can begin to feel loose due to normal shrinkage of bone and gums associated with tooth loss. This is natural and there is nothing that we can do to prevent it. Your bite is also a factor affecting the “life” of your dentures. Dentures that have worn down will inevitably cause sore jaw muscles and possible headaches. Denture teeth that are worn down can put stress on your dentures and cause them to break.

Will my dental insurance cover the cost of my dentures?

After the oral assessment and upon your decision on what type of denture you will need, we will send out insurance estimates to see what your dental benefits (should you have any) could assist you to cover the cost of the treatment. If you have denture coverage under your benefit plan, denture repairs and relines are typically covered at approximately 60-90%. New or replacement dentures are covered at 50-70% of the basic denture cost. Should your insurance pay only for the basic denture treatment, you could always apply this amount towards a better treatment option.

Why does my lower denture fit looser than my upper one?

The anatomy of the upper and lower jaws is different. The upper denture usually fits against the roof of the mouth by suction created by the borders/edges of the denture. There are no active muscles in the upper jaw.

The lower jaw is a different story. The area where the lower denture rests is approximately 1/3 of the upper one. There are plenty of active muscles such as your tongue, floor of the mouth and muscles of facial expression that are constantly in action. These muscles always try to move the denture out of its resting position.

We offer Suction Lower dentures (SEMCD) that utilize those moving muscles to work in favour of the lower denture to make it as stable as your mouth permits. Call us now to schedule a complimentary consultation to review if SEMCD is the best option for you. 80% of patients are candidates for Suction dentures. READ MORE

Why do I need a lower denture? I have been missing my lower posterior teeth for a long time.

Normally our jaws have 14 teeth in each, making it 28 teeth in total. Some people have wisdom teeth that are considered extras. They all serve certain function – Anterior (front) teeth are thin and pointed and are designed to cut into foods and help tear meats or bread, for example. Posterior (back) teeth are bulky and wide and are designed to mash and grind the food. Without the back teeth all of the chewing force shifts to the front teeth and people lose them quicker. Having your missing upper and lower teeth replaced is necessary to restore chewing function to prevent digestion problems as well as the loss of other teeth in your mouth.

How long will it take to make my new dentures?

To fabricate your custom dentures several steps are required. It is generally four appointments over the span of 2-4 weeks.

STEP 1 “Preliminary Impressions”: We will take generalized scans of your mouth and prepare customized measuring devices.

STEP 2 “Final Impressions”: We will use those customized measuring devices to record your muscle and jaw movements along with high-precision impressions of your gums to make sure the denture will fit comfortably. At this appointment, together with you, we will also be choosing the tooth shade or colour that most closely matches your natural teeth.

STEP 3 “Try In”: You will try your denture (3D-printed prototype) and see how your future smile will look. At this appointment, we will also be checking the alignment of the teeth, colour, function, bite and speech. Upon your approval, we will move to the last step, “The Finish”.

STEP 4 “The Finish!”: Your new dentures have been fabricated from the 3D-printed prototype you tried at the last visit and are now ready for you to take home. A few days after insertion you will come back to the clinic for a Post-Insertion appointment. This appointment is to double-check that your new dentures are perfect for you. We will make any final adjustments if necessary.

At Apple Denture & Implant Solutions, we always want to make sure you have a positive experience. We want to provide custom dentures that will make you feel comfortable and confident and will keep you smiling!

How do I keep my dentures clean?

You can help prevent plaque and tartar build-up, food stains, bad breath, mouth infections and redness or irritation to your gums by cleaning your dentures and mouth daily.

Remove your dentures and brush them right after each meal, then rinse them with water. Always use a denture brush (can be purchased at any drug store or we offer complementary brushes in our clinics) and liquid dish or hand soap. NEVER use toothpaste as it is abrasive and will cause scratching of the denture materials. Be sure to use a separate toothbrush and regular toothpaste to clean any natural teeth, tongue and gum surfaces. Overnight, take your dentures out and immerse them in a denture bath filled with denture cleaner.

NEVER use bleach to clean or soak your dentures! This can weaken the structure of the dentures and discolor the acrylic surface. Always read the instructions for the denture cleaner you’re using and be sure you have the right type for your dentures. We also sell professional cleaning solutions at our clinic that are not available in stores to get rid of any tough stains.

Is it painful to get dental implants to secure my dentures?

Short answer is NO. Getting dental implants is a minor surgery (done by your dentist) that is usually done under local freezing. When your gums get numb, you will not feel any discomfort or pain. Our bone does not have any nerve endings so getting a dental implant is less painful than getting a tooth extracted. In cases of anxiety, the surgeon may prescribe some medication that will help you relax. In some cases when the full mouth reconstruction is performed, a general chairside anesthesia might be administered by a licensed anesthesiologist. Once the surgery is complete and implants are integrated, we will fabricate the final denture for you! READ MORE

What happens at my first appointment?

At your first appointment, you will be greeted by our lovely front desk staff. Then you will need to fill out an office form. If you are a new patient, please arrive 10-15 minutes earlier to complete the paperwork. You can also complete our “New Patient Forms” from our website. Please fill in the necessary information. Should you need any help filling out the form, please give our office a call and one of our staff members will be glad to help you.

  • Meeting your denturist

    After the paperwork is complete, you will see the denturist. We will go over the medical history, your current oral conditions, needs and concerns. According to the intra-oral findings and condition of your current dentures (if you have any) we will present treatment options that are available and will recommend the best one for your specific condition.

  • Answering your questions

    Usually, our patients have an array of questions and we will definitely answer all of them because we believe that every person needs to be informed about their oral conditions and provided with the best treatment possible. We will also send out insurance estimates to see what your dental benefits (if you have any) could assist you to cover the cost of the treatment.

  • Starting the treatment

    In the majority of cases, there is no need to make a separate appointment to start the treatment. We usually reserve the time to take preliminary measurements of your mouth either for treatment planning or for the treatment itself. This procedure cuts down the number of appointments and allows you to get to your desired result quicker.
    (For a full breakdown of the procedures, please read the “How long will it take to make my new dentures?” – next section.)

I need both upper and lower dentures made. Can I make one denture now and another later?

Short answer is NO. Think of that as getting a new pair of shoes: you don’t get just the right shoe when both of them are worn through. In order for your mouth to be balanced, it is necessary to have matching teeth in both upper and lower jaws. That is why it is necessary to have both dentures made at the same time so they will be working together to restore your smile, comfort and your ability to chew the foods you love, giving you a better quality of life.

Digital Dentures FAQs

What are Digital dentures?

Digital dentures utilize the newest technology to create dentures that provide the best look, feel, and fit. Using 3D printers and CAD/CAM milling machinery, Digital dentures provide the most accurate denture fabrication process currently available. With a computer-controlled manufacturing process, we are able to create and deliver your dentures faster than ever, and at a comparable price to Conventional dentures! Contact us today to learn more about our new Digital dentures.

Are Digital dentures more expensive than Conventional dentures?

Our pricing methodology follows the provincial fee guide. In doing so, we provide our Digital dentures at a comparable rate of Analog or Conventional dentures. What does this mean for you? You are able to get a set of dentures that are much more accurate and fit better for the same affordable price!

Are Digital dentures more expensive than Conventional dentures?

Our pricing methodology follows the provincial fee guide. In doing so, we provide our Digital dentures at a comparable rate of Analog or Conventional dentures. What does this mean for you? You are able to get a set of dentures that are much more accurate and fit better for the same affordable price!

How long will it take to get Digital dentures?

If you already have an existing set of dentures, we can make reference to their fit & structure to streamline the process of making a new set. Your new set of dentures can be ready within as little as 10 days and 2 appointments. If you have never worn dentures, it will take 3-4 appointments, but your Digital dentures can still be completed within roughly 2 weeks.

What if I lose my dentures?

We are able to construct a new set of dentures for you within 1 day or even overnight. If you have a set of APPLE NeatFit™ Digital dentures, you will have access to a Digital denture file which we will also have ready in case of an emergency. Using this digital file, we are able to recreate your dentures in no time!

Partial Dentures FAQs

What is a Partial denture?

Partial dentures are a great solution if you’re missing some teeth and want to get your smile back. Partial dentures can either have an acrylic, metal, or thermoplastic framework with natural looking teeth attached that connects to your existing teeth with discrete clips. They are customized to each patients’ specific requirements to provide optimal support and to look as natural as possible.

Do Partial dentures need to be removed at night?

Removable Partial dentures should be taken off, cleaned, and stored at night. Doing so will give your jaw bones and gums a chance to rest and recover from the pressure of wearing your Partial dentures throughout the day.

What is the best type of Partial denture?

The most commonly used option when it comes to Partial dentures is Cast Partial dentures. The metal framework is strong, thoroughly supports replacement teeth, and is a longer lasting solution compared to Acrylic Partial dentures. Apple Dentures is proud to offer Hybrid Cast Partial dentures, which is the best of both worlds – long lasting and precise, and also durable and comfortable.

Can you eat normally with Partial dentures?

Absolutely. With custom tailored and designed Partial dentures you are free to eat all of the foods that you love. However, there may be a short adjustment period in which you need to get used to the feeling of having dentures in your mouth.

What is the difference between Full and Partial dentures?

Full dentures are needed for people who are missing all of their natural teeth — upper, lower or both. Custom-fabricated dentures from Apple Denture & Implant Solutions will allow you to enjoy the foods you love as well as restore your natural smile and your self-confidence.

If you have some teeth remaining, Partial dentures can be crafted to replace the missing teeth. These are for people who only need to replace some of their missing teeth. Custom dentures greatly improve your chewing and speaking ability while restoring your natural appearance.

Are Partial dentures noticeable?

Removable Partial dentures are a discrete solution to restore a person’s natural appearance. As they are customized to each patient’s specific requirements, they are made to fit perfectly, be discrete, and resemble the natural look of your existing teeth.

Suction Dentures FAQs

Do Lower Suction dentures need adhesive to stay in place?

No they don’t! Lower Suction dentures fit to the lower gums by creating a vacuum between the denture and gums. This vacuum between the denture and gums holds it in place.

Are Lower Suction dentures comfortable?

Of any type of denture, Lower Suction dentures are the most comfortable. That is because they don’t need any adhesives to stay in place that could be over or under used. The suction that the denture provides will take some getting used to but once the mouth has adjusted to the denture, it will feel very natural and comfortable.

Who is a good candidate for Lower Suction dentures?

Around 80% of patients are eligible for Lower Suction dentures. Even if a patient’s mouth is not capable of getting full suction with one of these dentures, they can still benefit from partial suction and have a very stable denture.

The only thing that would disqualify a patient for Lower Suction dentures is if they have recently had any teeth extracted from their lower jaw. These patients need to give their gums time to heal, and the force of the suction from the dentures can cause the recently formed wounds to open up, causing bleeding, increased risk of infection, and improper healing. Once their dentist or denturist determines that the patient’s gums have fully healed, they will become eligible for Lower Suction dentures again.

What are SEMCD or Suction dentures? Am I a candidate?

Suction Lower dentures are known as SEMCD, Suction Effective Mandibular Complete Dentures. They are a type of a Complete Lower denture (replacing all missing teeth in the lower jaw) that is made utilizing unique Japanese techniques. It uses the remaining bone to support the denture and it uses the surrounding soft tissues in the mouth to make it stable, preventing it from moving in the mouth. This type of denture minimizes and sometimes completely eliminates the use of denture adhesives (denture glue) and can even be an alternative to dental implants. READ MORE

80% of people are candidates for this procedure. We need to perform a thorough oral assessment to give you the exact answer. Book a complimentary consultation with us to determine if you are a candidate for Suction dentures! CALL TODAY

How long do Lower Suction dentures last?

As is the case with any denture, they will need to be replaced eventually. Lower Suction dentures are made to last between 7 and 10 years. Proper denture care and daily cleaning will help the denture have a longer lifespan.

Can food get under Lower Suction dentures?

Because of how they work, it is less likely to get food trapped under a Lower Suction denture than it is for a conventional denture. Because of this, people with Lower Suction dentures are able to eat foods they wouldn’t be able to with conventional dentures. It is still possible for food to get trapped, so be sure to take the dentures out to clean them and the gums every day.

Implant Dentures FAQs

Can you sleep with Removable Implant Supported dentures?

Implant dentures should be removed and cleaned daily if you want them to last as long as possible. You should also remove them and soak in denture cleaning solution daily to get rid of any bacteria that may have found its way under the dentures. You shouldn’t leave your Implant dentures in your mouth while you sleep unless your dentist or denturist says it is safe to do so.

When can I wear dentures after implant surgery?

During the healing process after implant surgery, which usually lasts between 3 to 6 months, the implant posts will remain covered. During this time, you will be given a modified or temporary denture to use. Once the healing process has finished, your final dentures that will be attached to the implants will be provided to you.

How do you care for Removable Implant Supported dentures?

Your dentures need to be carefully cleaned every day. You will need to remove your dentures, carefully brush them with a denture brush and a non-abrasive denture cleanser and soak them in the cleaning solution. You will also need to clean the areas around the implant posts and your gums daily. Following these denture care guidelines will help prolong the life of the dentures and keep your smile straight and bright.

What foods or drinks should I avoid after dental implant surgery?

During the healing process after dental implant surgery, it is important to avoid the following kinds of foods and drinks:

  • Sugary or acidic foods and drinks like soft drinks, candy, citrus fruits or tomatoes.
  • Crunchy foods like chips, cookies, nuts and hard fruits.
  • Sticky or chewy foods like gum, raisins, or peanut butter.
  • Extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.
  • Spicy foods.
  • Alcoholic drinks.

These foods can lead to complications with your implants including infections, gum inflammation, or can move the implant posts causing them to not fuse to the jawbone properly and not function as intended.

How often should Implant dentures be replaced?

Dental implants are made to last a long time. A dental implant can last anywhere from 20 to 25 years if properly cared for. Having them inspected by your dentist or denturist every few years is a good idea to make sure the implants are in working order. Implant dentures should be replaced every 5-8 years depending on their type and wear of the teeth.

Did Digital dentures change the way Implant dentures are made?

Digital denture technology allows us to deliver more accurate results when dealing with Implant dentures. Computer design helps us create high-precision restorations using a variety of materials, ranging from temporary acrylic bridges to superb full-contour zirconia bridges to replace all missing teeth.

Denture Reline & Rebase FAQs

What is the difference between a reline and a rebase?

A denture rebase is a more comprehensive adjustment of your denture. Rather than replacing the lining on the tissue side of the denture, a denture rebase replaces all of the acrylic material in the base of the denture. This type of adjustment is used when the teeth are in good condition, but the base needs a large adjustment that can’t be solved by a reline alone.

How often should you have dentures relined?

This can depend on a number of factors. A soft reline will last between 1 and 2 years, while a hard reline can last between 2 and 3 years. Other factors include how well cared for the dentures are, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and the rate of degradation of the patient’s gums and bone structure.

Why is denture relining necessary?

Denture relining is a pretty routine procedure for denture wearers that helps ensure a comfortable fit. You should consider getting your dentures relined if:

  • Your dentures become loose
  • You feel pinching or rubbing on your gums
  • Your teeth are extracted 
  • Your dentures have just been repaired
  • You are experiencing constant discomfort

What is the difference between a hard reline and a soft reline?

The difference between these types of relines lies in the materials that are used. A hard reline uses materials that are similar to the hardened materials used to make the base of the denture. A soft reline uses softer materials that tend to be more comfortable for the patient when wearing the denture.

Why would I need to get my dentures rebased?

A denture rebase is a more drastic adjustment of your dentures and is typically needed when the denture teeth are in great condition, but the acrylic base needs to be adjusted. A denturist might recommend getting your dentures rebased if:

  • The base of your dentures is becoming weak
  • Your dentures aren’t fitting comfortably
  • You’ve damaged or broken your dentures
  • You want to make your immediate dentures your permanent set of dentures

How often should you get your dentures rebased?

The exact timeframe varies from one patient to the next depending on how rapidly their gums change shape, how they maintain their dentures, and their oral hygiene habits. However, on average denture wearers should consider rebasing their dentures after 5 years to ensure a more comfortable and precise fit.

Can I reline my dentures myself?

We would not recommend you relining your dentures. Odds are that doing so on your own will result in your dentures not fitting properly, and will put you at risk of irritating your gums and accelerating the degradation process. In the best-case scenario, this will lead to the dentures needing more work to properly fix the lining, which will cost you more. In the worst-case scenario, you may need to have the denture replaced altogether.

Full Dentures FAQs

I need Full dentures - where do I start?

If you need Full dentures, the first step is to get in touch with us. Our denturists and licensed denture technicians have years of experience helping patients choose the right dentures for their needs. Depending on how many teeth you have lost, the overall health of your jaw structure, your aesthetic concerns and your budget we will recommend the best possible fit. Our process always begins with educating you about your oral health and then giving you the professional guidance you need to choose the denture treatment that best suits your requirements and lifestyle.

When are Full dentures recommended over Partial dentures?

Full dentures are recommended over Partial dentures when most or all your natural teeth are missing. If you only have a few teeth remaining, they are removed before Complete dentures are placed. Partial dentures are used when only a few teeth are missing, and work by clasping onto nearby natural teeth. If you are unsure which kind of dentures would be best for you, contact us today!

Is it possible to get Full dentures put the same day as teeth removal?

Yes, it is possible to have your teeth removed and dentures put in the same day. These kinds of dentures are called Immediate dentures and are popular with patients as they do not require you to live without your teeth while your jawbone and gums heal, and help you establish your speech patterns more easily. Contact us today if you are interested in Immediate dentures.

How do I clean my dentures?

Just like your teeth, dentures need daily care. Depending on the type of denture you use, they might be prone to absorbing stains over time. To clean your dentures, remove them and rinse them to remove loose food particles. Then, make sure to lightly brush your dentures with a specialized denture brush and non-abrasive cleaner. For more information read our article on How to Keep your Dentures White.

Will my eating habits be affected by my dentures?

While some kinds of Complete dentures affect your eating habits less than others, they all require some getting used to. You will need to learn how to chew properly with your new dentures, something which your denturist will advise you on. They will also recommend healthy foods which will not damage your dentures or cause discomfort. If you have more specific questions about how getting dentures will affect your eating habits, contact us today!

Immediate Dentures FAQs

How long does it take to make Immediate dentures?

It typically takes anywhere from 1-2 weeks to make Immediate dentures. Keep in mind that the fabrication process and timeline may vary from one patient to the next and depending on the clinic where they’re made. It may take several visits to your denture clinic to finalized your Immediate dentures.

How long do Immediate dentures last?

Immediate dentures are only meant to be a temporary solution for your missing teeth. They are typically worn for a period of 6-8 months while your gums heal after tooth extraction.

Immediate dentures won’t be as accurate as your final set of permanent dentures, but patients will occasionally get their Immediate dentures relined to be longer term solution.

Do Immediate dentures look natural?

Yes! Immediate dentures are created using a custom impression of your mouth and are designed to look and feel just like your natural teeth. Immediate dentures are made to mimic the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth.

When can I take my Immediate dentures out?

It’s important to not remove your Immediate dentures for a minimum of 24 hours after being inserted. After roughly 1-2 weeks, you can start to take your Immediate dentures out overnight to give your gums a chance to rest.

How much do Immediate dentures cost?

The cost of a set of Immediate dentures can vary significantly based on the complexity of the design, the materials used, and based on the clinic where you get them made. You can typically expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 – $3,000 on your set of Immediate dentures – but this price can vary.

Contact us to get a more accurate quote for your Immediate denture needs!

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