Filling in the gaps so you can smile again

Advertiser content for The Denture Centre.

The Denture Centre in Launceston, is part of the largest denture provider group in Tasmania, covering Hobart, Moonah, Launceston, Deloraine, Scottsdale, Ulverstone and Burnie.

The scope of practice for dental prosthetists covers a wide-ranging age group, from teens to the old age of 100.

If you have suffered tooth loss for any reason (ie accidental loss, decay or gum disease), dentures can be a very good replacement for function and appearance.  

Nothing, of course, can ever replace a natural tooth, but their profession can deliver a functional alternative.

From a one tooth denture to a full mouth restoration, this is the primary role of the dental prosthetist, who is highly skilled in this unique profession.

The restoration of a smile can have significant impact on the self esteem for a patient. That’s why The Denture Centre works with the patient to achieve a natural appearance, giving them involvement in the outcome. Patients are encouraged to give as much feed back during the process as possible.

Providing photos and family history are often sought to give them their personalised look. Colour, shape, mould and set-up are all areas of the creative process.

“Quality of the actual tooth structure has been enhanced with state of the art technology, and we at The Denture Centre, provide our patients with a choice of the very best European products and techniques” senior prosthetist Russell Brownlie said.

“Our regular attendance at trade expos, Professional Development Seminars and Conferences, provides us with all the latest up to date information and technical advice.”

The basic principles of denture making traditionally date back to the ‘lost wax process’, and is centuries old, but modern dentures are still individually handcrafted, requiring many hours and fine motor skills of the technician.

Mr Brownlie has 50 years experience in the profession, 42 of which have been in private practice at The Denture Centre.

He has served for 30 years on the National Board, and currently holds the position of National Vice President of the Association for Dental Prosthetists (ADPA Ltd).

“I have been involved in the administration of the profession, both at State and National levels, and it is exciting to see digital dentistry emerging, whereby some of the traditional processes will become obsolete over time. Oral scanning will replace the necessity of mouth impressions, and 3D printing will greatly reduce the production time.”

The oral mucosa (gums) changes over time, requiring denture wearers to have their appliance regularly checked for fit and function. Natural chewing motion will create some wear that needs to be addressed to maintain appearance and function.

Dentures do not last forever and should ideally be replaced on a regular basis, say four to five years, following consultation and examination by your Dental Prosthetist.

Oral health has a major influence on your general health, so a regular check-up is always encouraged by The Denture Centre.

“Also, it cannot be emphasised enough, the wearing of a professionally fitted mouthguard for anyone participating in contact sport,” Mr Brownlie said.

“Our brand “Oral Armour Mouth Guards” was created following a sporting match incident in the 80s when a family member received a blow to the mouth, resulting in the loss of four teeth. Quite dramatic for a teenager!

“Our new location in Launceston, 259 Charles Street, offers our patients the convenience of off- street parking, a welcoming lounge, and caring staff to assist in the overall positive experience for our patients,” he continued.

“We cater for all Health Funds, with on site claiming, and offer the added advantage of our new National Dental Plan, (Certegy Ezi-Pay) making the very best dental treatment more accessible.

“We were the first Denture Clinic in Tasmania to offer this plan, and an application is provided on-line at our Launceston clinic.”

For more information and on-line appointments visit: www.thedenturecentre.com.au.

Advertiser content for The Denture Centre.