Denture FAQ's Calgary
If you’re considering dentures, some of these questions are probably on your mind ...
Starting dentures can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what’s normal and what’s not. At Swiss Denture, we take time to explain each step, answer your questions, and focus on comfort from the very beginning — so nothing feels rushed or uncertain. LEARN MORE
Dentures may become the right solution when teeth are severely damaged, missing, or no longer functioning properly. A denturist can evaluate your situation and explain whether dentures could restore comfort, appearance, and daily function. LEARN MORE
Many patients worry their dentures will look fake or unnatural. Modern dentures are designed to closely match natural teeth and facial features.
Missing teeth lead to bone-loss and can lead to a sunken appearance. Well-designed dentures help support the lips and cheeks and can improve the appearance of facial structure.
Patients often want to know if tooth shape, shade, and size can be personalized. We recommend bringing a photograph of your natural smile to help guide your denturist’s design choices.
Modern dentures are designed to restore everyday comfort and confidence. Most people adapt well with proper guidance, learning how to eat, speak, and care for dentures as they become a natural part of daily life. LEARN MORE
Dentures are not limited to any specific age. People of many ages choose dentures when teeth can no longer be restored. The important question is whether dentures support your long-term comfort and oral health. LEARN MORE
A common fear is that dentures will slip while talking, laughing, or eating. Well-fitted dentures should stay securely in place, although adhesives may be recommended in some cases.
Properly made dentures should feel stable during everyday activities like speaking and eating. If dentures frequently loosen or slip, it may indicate changes in the gums or a need for adjustment. LEARN MORE
Choosing a denturist in Calgary involves more than technical skill. Experience, careful listening, and personalized care are essential. A consultation helps you determine whether the approach and communication feel right for you. LEARN MORE
People often worry about which foods they will have to give up. While dentures allow many people to return to a normal diet, there is usually a learning period. Hard, sticky, or very chewy foods may continue to be more difficult to eat.
Some patients notice a temporary change in taste perception with upper dentures because the palate is covered.
New wearers sometimes notice temporary changes in speech, such as a slight lisp when pronouncing “s” or “f” sounds. This typically improves as the tongue and muscles adapt.
Most people adapt within the first few weeks, though it can take several weeks to a few months for dentures to feel completely natural. Follow-up adjustments are common during this time.
Some patients worry about stability during activity. Generally, properly fitting dentures will remain secure during sports or physical activity, but a mouthguard may be recommended.
Patients commonly worry about discomfort from extractions and the denture fitting process. There is pain and swelling associated with the removal of natural teeth, so the initial period after extractions can be uncomfortable. Your dentist or oral surgeon can provide information about pain management during this process, while your denturist ensures that the denture is as comfortable as possible during the initial healing phase.
Some mild soreness or pressure is common when first wearing dentures, but persistent pain is not normal and should be addressed with adjustments.
It’s normal for new dentures to require a short adjustment period. Minor pressure or irritation can occur initially, but careful fitting and small adjustments help ensure dentures become comfortable for everyday use. LEARN MORE
Patients often want to know how to manage gum irritation and when to return for adjustments, which are very common during the first few weeks. The best way to address sore spots is to contact our office to arrange an appointment with your denturist.
It is generally recommended to remove dentures at night to allow the gums and tissues to rest and to reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
The cost of dentures varies depending on the type of denture, materials used, and the complexity of the case. A consultation allows a denturist to explain available options and provide a clear estimate. LEARN MORE
Dentures typically last 5–8 years, although relines or adjustments are often needed sooner as the jawbone changes over time.
Dentures require daily cleaning with denture-specific products. Regular toothpaste can be too abrasive.
Some patients benefit from adhesives for added stability, though well-fitted dentures may not require them.
Many patients mistakenly believe they no longer need dental visits. Your denturist may be the only professional who thoroughly examines your mouth and screens for abnormalities, which is why regular denture checkups are so important.
Patients often ask if dentures can be placed on the same day as tooth extractions so they do not have to go without teeth. Immediate dentures address this need, as they are placed immediately after extractions. These are also sometimes called surgical dentures.
The number of appointments required to make new dentures varies depending on the complexity of the case. Your denturist can clarify the expected number of visits after your oral examination.
Multiple follow-up visits for adjustments are very normal, especially during the first few weeks as your mouth adapts to the dentures.
Dentures may appear unnatural when the shape, size, color, or positioning of the teeth is not properly balanced with facial features. Careful denture design can significantly improve a natural and comfortable appearance. LEARN MORE
Over time, natural changes in the gums and jawbone can affect how dentures fit. When dentures feel loose or uncomfortable, adjustments, relines, or new dentures may be needed to restore stability. LEARN MORE
How long does it take to make dentures?
The process normally takes a few weeks. First you will come in for a few appointments where we will take impressions of your mouth and bite records before you get the chance to try out your completed teeth.
Dentures are all made by hand, and taking the time to ensure they are the right fit helps avoid the need for refits and adjustments in the future.
Do dental implants hurt?
One of the largest roadblocks to receiving necessary treatment for many people is the fear of pain. The reality is that any minor pain associated with dental implant treatment can easily be treated with over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen.
The overwhelming response from our patients is they are surprised at how little pain they felt!
How should I care for my dentures?
Many of my patients want to know how to correctly clean their dentures. The most important thing to do is to remove your dentures from your mouth and brush them with a denture toothbrush. Afterwards it’s important to also soak them in an approved denture cleaner. It’s very important not to use bleach or any other household chemicals as they can damage the denture and slow absorb into the plastic and leech back into your mouth later. The reason why soaking your dentures is so important is because it’s the only way to effectively disinfect the denture.
Once they’ve finished cleaning and you remove them from the solution, it’s very important to rinse them thoroughly. With proper care and maintenance, your denture should last you five to seven years.
If you have any questions or concerns about your dentures or your oral health, please contact us for a free consultation.”
How much do dental implants cost?
We need to meet you in person to determine if
1) you are a candidate and
2) what you want to achieve. To determine candidacy, we need to determine if you have enough bone and whether it is of sufficient quality for dental implants.
Once we’ve determined what’s possible, we can then talk about the next step.
Do you want fixed teeth or removable teeth? All of these questions can be answered by coming to see us for a consultation.
What is a surgical denture?
A surgical denture is inserted after natural teeth are removed. It’s not uncommon in the first few days after your teeth are removed to experience swelling, discomfort and difficulty chewing. Your denture will initially feel very snug but will loosen up as the swelling goes down, and you are encouraged to come see us for follow-up care, which include temporary relines and adjustments, to ensure the most comfortable fit.
Your gums will look almost completely healed after a month or so but the bone beneath the surface heals more slowly and can take six months to a year to completely heal depending on your overall health.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
What people really want to know is: How long will I be without my teeth? From Day 1, you will have teeth in your mouth and be able to talk, smile and eat naturally. During this time, your bone and the implant will need about four to eight months to completely heal. At that point we can complete your treatment. Make an appointment today!