Losing your natural teeth can be a daunting experience, but you’re definitely not alone. Many Australians consider getting dental plates (commonly called dentures or “false teeth”) as a practical and affordable way to restore their smile and chewing function. Whether due to tooth decay, gum disease, injury, or cosmetic concerns, dentures offer a flexible solution for replacing missing teeth.
Modern dental plates, incorporating advanced dental prosthetics, have come a long way in terms of comfort, fit, and natural appearance. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dentures in Australia — from the types available to the pros and cons — so you can make an informed decision.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Replacing missing teeth is important for maintaining overall oral health and functionality. When a tooth is lost, the gap left behind can lead to several issues. Surrounding teeth may shift into the empty space, causing misalignment and affecting your bite. This can also lead to increased wear on remaining teeth and potential jaw pain. Moreover, missing teeth can make eating and speaking more challenging, impacting your daily life.
Beyond functionality, replacing missing teeth is important for aesthetic reasons. Gaps in your smile can affect your self-esteem and confidence. Teeth plates (dentures), dental implants, and partial dentures provide solutions to restore your smile, giving you a more youthful and complete appearance.
What Are Teeth Plates?
Teeth plates — or removable dentures — are custom-made prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. They’re designed to be taken in and out of your mouth and can be made to replace just a few teeth or an entire set.
Here are the main types of dental plates and denture solutions available:
1. Full Dentures (Complete Dentures)
These replace all teeth in your upper or lower jaw. Full dentures sit on top of the gums and are typically held in place by suction or a denture adhesive. They’re common in older adults or anyone who has lost most of their teeth.
2. Partial Dentures
Ideal if you still have some natural teeth, these plates fill in the gaps and clip onto existing teeth using small metal or plastic clasps. They’re a cost-effective way to restore several missing teeth at once, support and preserve the remaining healthy teeth, and prevent them from shifting.
3. Flexible Dentures
Made from soft, bendy materials like Valplast, these dentures are initially more comfortable and use gum-colored flexible clasps. They’re great for aesthetics and comfort, but might not last as long or offer the same stability as traditional plates.
4. Cosmetic or “Immediate” Dentures
These are often temporary dentures worn straight after tooth extraction. Commonly used for cosmetic purposes (like replacing a front tooth with a “flipper”), they’re designed to restore your smile quickly while your gums heal or until a more permanent solution is ready.
Regardless of the type, all dentures are custom-built to fit your mouth, typically made from acrylic resin, metal, or flexible nylon. They’re designed to match your natural teeth in shape and color for a discreet look.
Who Might Need Teeth Plates?
Dental plates are suitable for a wide range of people. You might consider getting one if you have a missing tooth, as gaps from missing teeth can affect your appearance and bite. Additionally, missing teeth can lead to increased strain on adjacent teeth and potential dental issues. Addressing missing teeth is crucial to maintaining oral health.
✔️ You Have Multiple Missing Teeth
Tooth loss from gum disease, injury, or decay is a common reason to get dentures, especially when multiple teeth are missing. Whether you’re older and have lost most of your teeth or younger and missing a few from an accident, dentures can help restore both function and appearance.
✔️ Implants or Bridges Aren’t an Option
Dental implants require good bone density and overall health — and they can be costly. Dental treatment with dentures offers a non-invasive and affordable alternative if implants or bridges are out of reach due to budget or medical reasons.
✔️ You Need a Temporary Fix
Dentures can serve as a stopgap while waiting for a more permanent solution, like implants. They’re also often worn during the healing period after extractions.
✔️ You Want Cosmetic Improvement
Even if missing teeth aren’t causing discomfort, gaps can affect your confidence. Dentures support your lips and cheeks, helping restore a fuller, more youthful look.
✔️ Other Treatments Aren’t Suitable
Some people can’t get bridges or implants due to weak adjacent teeth or poor bone support. In such cases, dentures are often the most practical and safe option.
How Are Teeth Plates Made and Fitted in Australia?
Getting dental plates isn’t a one-and-done appointment — it’s usually a multi-step process. Here’s what to expect:
1. Consultation and Examination
Your dentist (or a dental prosthetist) will examine your mouth, discuss your goals, and assess whether dentures are suitable. If necessary, they’ll also schedule any extractions.
2. Impressions and Measurements
Detailed moulds (or digital scans) of your mouth are taken to capture the exact shape of your gums and any remaining teeth. Your bite and jaw alignment are also recorded.
3. Try-In with Wax Model
You might try on a wax version for full dentures or complex partials first. This step helps ensure proper fit and aesthetics. You can request changes to tooth color, size, or positioning at this stage.
4. Final Fitting
Once the final denture is ready, you’ll return to have it fitted. Your dentist will check the fit and comfort and make small adjustments as needed.
5. Follow-Up Adjustments
It’s normal to feel some discomfort initially. Follow-up visits allow your dentist to tweak the denture for a better fit and comfort.
6. Ongoing Maintenance
Dentures can loosen over time as your gums and jawbone change. You may need a reline (a refitting of the plate) every few years. Eventually, a full replacement may be necessary every 5–10 years.
Pros and Cons of Dental Plates
Here’s how dental plates stack up against other tooth replacement options like implants and bridges:
Pros of Dentures:
- Affordable: Dentures are generally much cheaper than implants or bridges.
- Non-Invasive: No surgery required, making them ideal for people with health issues or dental anxiety.
- Quick Turnaround: You can replace a full set of teeth in weeks, not months.
- Easily Replaceable: If a denture breaks or wears out, it’s usually straightforward to fix or replace.
Cons of Dentures:
- Removable: Dentures can shift or move, especially lowers. You might need adhesives for extra hold.
- Adjustment Period: Takes time to get used to wearing and eating with them.
- Daily Maintenance: You’ll need to remove and clean them regularly and store them properly at night.
- Bone Loss: Dentures don’t prevent jawbone shrinkage like implants do.
- Reduced Taste Sensation: Full upper plates cover the roof of the mouth, which can affect taste and texture perception.
Taking Care of Your Teeth Plate
Proper care ensures your dentures last longer and remain comfortable:
- Clean daily using a denture brush and non-abrasive cleanser.
- Soak overnight in water or a denture-cleaning solution.
- Rinse after eating to remove food debris.
- Avoid hot water which can warp the material.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Teeth Plate?
Dental plates are a versatile, cost-effective, and practical solution for many Australians who are missing teeth. While they do require some adjustment and maintenance, they offer a non-surgical way to restore your smile, boost confidence, and improve your quality of life.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your oral health, lifestyle, and budget. A consultation with a dental professional — whether it’s a dentistor a prosthetist — will help you understand your options and choose what works best for your needs.
