Having teeth extracted can be a difficult event.

Six months later, a touch up is usually required to account for changes in gum and bone shape. “They’re not holding teeth anymore so their shape changes to reflect that,” Ryan says.

A “re-line” at this point involves Ryan or one of the clinic’s team of experienced clinicians and technicians removing up to 90 per cent of the initial acrylic denture. A new piece is then made from a fresh mould.

Patients can now expect their “immediate” denture to essentially become a permanent denture.

Checkups are an important part of future care, however, and there are several telltale signs that a fit might need adjusting, Ryan says.

These include slipping and frequent sore spots, staining or plaque build-up, and increased reliance on the sticky paste often applied for added grip.

Ryan says people who don’t yet have a dentist can still discuss their denture needs with the clinic, and they have a number of contacts with dentists across the city they can refer people to.

“We always go through everything with the patient and make sure they’re well involved in the process,” he says.

Dentures Plus also supplies high-quality cleaning solutions and other equipment for denture care, available through a new website for easy shopping.

For a free consultation or to find out more, contact Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517 or at denturesplus.co.nz. For over-the-counter purchases, visit the clinic at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans.