Frequently Asked Questions
Get expert answers to common questions about dentures, dental care, costs, and our services at Oak Park Dental & Denture Clinic Melbourne.
General Denture Questions
Q:How long do dentures last?
A: Most dentures last 5-10 years with proper care. However, your mouth changes over time, so dentures may need relining every 1-2 years to maintain a good fit. At Oak Park, we provide regular checkups to ensure your dentures remain comfortable and functional.
Q:Can I sleep with my dentures in?
A: We recommend removing dentures at night to give your gums a rest and prevent bacterial growth. Soaking them overnight in a denture cleaning solution helps maintain hygiene and extends their lifespan.
Q:Will dentures change how I look?
A: Modern dentures are designed to look natural and can actually improve your appearance by supporting facial structure. At Oak Park, we carefully match tooth color, shape, and size to create a natural-looking smile that suits your face.
Q:How long does it take to get used to dentures?
A: Most patients adjust within 2-4 weeks. Initially, you may experience increased saliva, minor soreness, or difficulty speaking. These issues typically resolve as your mouth adapts. We provide follow-up appointments to make any necessary adjustments.
Q:Can I eat normally with dentures?
A: Yes! Start with soft foods and gradually introduce harder foods as you adjust. Avoid very sticky or hard foods initially. With properly fitted dentures from Oak Park, most patients can eat a normal diet within a few weeks.
Q:What's the difference between full and partial dentures?
A: Full dentures replace all teeth in an arch (upper or lower), while partial dentures replace only some missing teeth and are held in place by clasps around remaining teeth. We help you choose the right option based on your needs.
Q:Are dentures covered by health insurance?
A: Most private health insurance policies with extras cover provide some rebate for dentures. Coverage varies by policy. We can provide quotes for your insurance claim. VDS and CDBS programs also offer government-funded options for eligible patients.
Q:Do dentures need special cleaning?
A: Yes. Clean dentures daily with a soft brush and denture cleaner (not toothpaste). Soak overnight in denture solution. Rinse after meals. Never use hot water as it can warp the denture. We provide detailed care instructions.
Cost & Payment Questions
Q:How much do full dentures cost in Melbourne?
A: Full dentures at Oak Park typically range from $2,500-$4,000 depending on materials and complexity. We offer payment plans and accept all major health funds. VDS-eligible patients may receive government-funded dentures.
Q:How much do partial dentures cost?
A: Partial dentures range from $800-$2,500 depending on type: acrylic partials ($800-$1,200), chrome partials ($1,500-$2,000), or flexible Valplast partials ($1,500-$2,500). We provide detailed quotes before treatment.
Q:Do you offer payment plans?
A: Yes, we offer flexible payment plans to make dentures affordable. Discuss options during your free consultation. We also accept all major health insurance and can process claims on the spot.
Q:How much does a denture reline cost?
A: Denture relines at Oak Park cost $200-$400 depending on type. Soft relines ($200-$250) last 12-18 months. Hard relines ($300-$400) last 2+ years. Same-day service available.
Q:How much do emergency denture repairs cost?
A: Emergency repairs start from $150 for simple cracks. Most repairs are completed in 1-2 hours while you wait. Complex repairs may cost $200-$350. We provide quotes before starting work.
Q:What is the Victorian Denture Scheme (VDS)?
A: VDS provides government-funded dentures for eligible Victorians (pensioners, healthcare card holders). If eligible, you receive free or heavily subsidized dentures. Oak Park is an authorized VDS provider. Check eligibility at our clinic.
Q:Does Medicare cover dentures?
A: Standard Medicare doesn't cover dentures. However, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) covers some dental work for children. VDS and DVA programs provide coverage for eligible adults. Private health insurance extras often provide rebates.
Q:Can I claim dentures on my health insurance?
A: Yes, if you have extras cover. Most policies provide $500-$1,500 annual limits for dentures. We process claims on the spot using HICAPS. Bring your health fund card to your appointment.
Procedures & Timeline
Q:How long does it take to get dentures?
A: Full dentures typically take 4-6 weeks from first appointment to final fitting. This includes: consultation, impressions, try-in, and final adjustments. Immediate dentures can be fitted same-day after extractions.
Q:How many appointments do I need?
A: Typically 4-5 appointments: (1) Consultation and impressions, (2) Bite registration, (3) Try-in and adjustments, (4) Final fitting, (5) Follow-up. Each appointment takes 30-60 minutes.
Q:What are immediate dentures?
A: Immediate dentures are fitted immediately after tooth extractions, so you're never without teeth. They require more adjustments as gums heal and shrink. After 3-6 months, they may need relining or replacement with conventional dentures.
Q:Do I need to have all my teeth removed for dentures?
A: Not necessarily. Partial dentures work with remaining teeth. Full dentures require all teeth in that arch to be removed. We assess your situation and recommend the best option. Some patients keep healthy teeth and use partials.
Q:Is getting dentures painful?
A: The denture-making process itself is painless. If extractions are needed, local anesthetic is used. New dentures may cause minor soreness initially as your mouth adjusts. We make adjustments to ensure comfort.
Q:Can dentures be made in one day?
A: Emergency repairs can be done in 1-2 hours. Relines can be done same-day. New dentures require multiple appointments over 4-6 weeks for proper fit and appearance. Rushing the process compromises quality.
Q:What happens at the first appointment?
A: We examine your mouth, discuss your needs and expectations, take initial impressions, explain options and costs, and create a treatment plan. This consultation is free at Oak Park. No obligation to proceed.
Maintenance & Care
Q:How often should I get my dentures checked?
A: Annual checkups are recommended. We check fit, look for wear or damage, and assess if relining is needed. Regular checkups prevent problems and extend denture lifespan. Book your checkup at Oak Park today.
Q:What do I do if my dentures break?
A: Don't try to repair them yourself with glue - this can cause further damage. Call Oak Park immediately for same-day emergency repair. Most repairs are completed in 1-2 hours. We keep common parts in stock.
Q:Why are my dentures loose?
A: Gums and bone naturally shrink over time, causing dentures to loosen. This typically happens after 1-2 years. A reline adds new material to restore fit. If very loose, replacement may be needed. Book a reline assessment at Oak Park.
Q:Can dentures be whitened?
A: Denture teeth can't be whitened like natural teeth. However, professional cleaning removes stains. If dentures are severely discolored, replacement may be needed. Proper daily cleaning prevents most staining.
Q:How do I prevent denture odor?
A: Clean dentures daily, soak overnight in denture solution, rinse after meals, and brush your gums and tongue. Odor usually indicates bacterial buildup. Professional cleaning at Oak Park removes stubborn deposits.
VDS & CDBS Programs
Q:Am I eligible for the Victorian Denture Scheme?
A: You may be eligible if you hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or DVA Gold Card and meet income/asset tests. Oak Park can check your eligibility. Bring your card to your free consultation.
Q:What does VDS cover?
A: VDS covers full or partial dentures, denture repairs, and relines for eligible Victorians. Some services are free, others have small co-payments. Oak Park is an authorized VDS provider and can explain your entitlements.
Q:What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
A: CDBS provides up to $1,095 over 2 years for dental services for eligible children aged 0-17. Covers checkups, X-rays, fillings, and extractions. Oak Park is a CDBS provider. Check eligibility through Medicare.
Q:Does DVA cover dentures?
A: DVA Gold Card holders receive full coverage for dentures and dental care. White Card holders may receive coverage for service-related conditions. Oak Park is a DVA-approved provider. Bring your DVA card to your appointment.
Q:How do I apply for VDS?
A: You don't apply separately - eligibility is automatic if you hold the right concession card. Oak Park checks eligibility and processes VDS claims for you. Book a free consultation to check your eligibility.
Emergency Services
Q:Do you offer same-day denture repairs?
A: Yes! Most denture repairs are completed in 1-2 hours while you wait. Call Oak Park as soon as your denture breaks. We prioritize emergency repairs and keep common parts in stock. Available Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm.
Q:What if my denture breaks on the weekend?
A: Call our emergency line and leave a message. We'll contact you first thing Monday morning. For urgent cases, we can arrange weekend appointments. Avoid using broken dentures as they can cause injury.
Q:Can you fix a cracked denture?
A: Yes, most cracks can be repaired. Bring both pieces to Oak Park. Don't try to glue it yourself - improper repairs can make professional repair impossible. Most crack repairs are completed same-day.
Q:What if I lose a tooth from my denture?
A: We can replace lost teeth same-day in most cases. Bring the denture and the lost tooth (if you have it) to Oak Park. We match the tooth color and shape for a seamless repair.
Q:My denture is causing sore spots - what should I do?
A: Don't continue wearing a denture that causes pain. Call Oak Park for an adjustment appointment. Most adjustments take 15-30 minutes. Sore spots can lead to ulcers if not addressed promptly.
Still Have Questions?
Our friendly team at Oak Park is here to help. Book a free consultation today.