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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often — about dentures, the process, costs, and what to expect at your first appointment.

Getting Started
Do I need a referral to see a denturist?

No referral is needed. In Alberta, you can contact a Registered Denturist directly to book a consultation — no dentist referral required.

Is the initial consultation really free?

Yes. Your initial consultation is free. It's a chance to meet, discuss your situation, and understand your options — with no commitment required and no obligation to proceed.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

If you have existing dentures, please bring them with you. It's also helpful to bring your insurance card if you have dental coverage, and any information about recent dental work. Most importantly, bring your questions — we're here to help you understand your options.

What is a denturist, and how are they different from a dentist?

A denturist is a regulated health professional who specializes in the design, fabrication, and fitting of dentures. In Alberta, denturists are regulated health professionals and can see patients directly — without a dentist referral.

Implant-Supported Dentures
What is an implant-supported denture?

An implant-supported denture is a denture that attaches to dental implants placed in the jawbone, rather than resting on the gum alone. The implants act as anchors, providing significantly more stability than a conventional denture. This can be especially helpful for lower dentures, which tend to be less stable due to tongue and jaw movement.

Does the denturist place the implants?

No. Dental implants are placed surgically by a dentist or oral surgeon. As a Registered Denturist, Bradi Bailer designs and fits the denture that attaches to the implants — but does not perform the implant placement procedure. If you're interested in implant-supported dentures and don't yet have a dental provider for the placement, we can help point you in the right direction.

Am I a candidate for implant-supported dentures?

Suitability for implant-supported dentures depends on factors like your jawbone density, overall health, and personal preferences. We can discuss whether implant-supported dentures are worth exploring at your consultation, and coordinate with a dentist or oral surgeon for an assessment of the implant component.

Types of Dentures
What is the difference between a complete and a partial denture?

A complete denture replaces all of the teeth in one or both jaws. A partial denture is used when some natural teeth remain — it is supported by the natural teeth to fill the gaps and restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably. We'll help you determine which is appropriate for your situation at your consultation.

What is an immediate denture?

An immediate denture is a denture that is made before your teeth are extracted, so it can be placed right away after the extractions. This means you won't go without teeth during the healing period. As your jaw heals and changes shape, the immediate denture will likely need to be relined or replaced within the first year.

Can I get a denture on just the top or just the bottom?

Yes. Complete dentures can be made for the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both. Upper dentures tend to have better suction and are often easier to adjust to. Lower dentures can be more challenging due to the tongue and jaw movement — implant-supported options are sometimes recommended for the lower jaw for this reason.

Fitting & the Process
How long does it take to get new dentures?

The timeline varies depending on the type of denture and your individual circumstances. In general, the process involves several appointments over a few weeks — for impressions, measurements, try-in, and delivery. We'll give you a clear timeline after your initial consultation so you know what to expect.

Will my new dentures feel natural right away?

It takes time to adjust to new dentures. Most patients find that eating and speaking feel different at first, but improve significantly over several weeks as dentures integrate with your body. We include follow-up adjustments as part of the process — if something feels uncomfortable, please don't hesitate to call us. Adjustments are a normal part of getting dentures right.

How often do dentures need to be replaced or relined?

Dentures don't last forever. Over time, the fit changes as your jawbone naturally changes shape — this is normal and expected. Most dentures benefit from a reline within the first few years, and a full replacement is often recommended every 5 to 7 years. Annual check-ups help us monitor fit and address changes early.

My existing dentures are from another clinic — can you assess them?

Yes, we're happy to assess dentures that were made elsewhere. Whether you're new to Edmonton, looking for a second opinion, or simply want to understand the condition of your existing dentures, we can help.

Costs & Insurance
Does insurance cover dentures?

Many dental insurance plans include coverage for dentures, though the amount covered varies by plan. We offer direct billing to many insurance providers. Bring your insurance card to your first appointment and we'll help clarify what your plan covers.

Do you offer direct billing?

Yes. We offer direct billing to many insurance plans. This means we bill your insurer directly and you pay only any remaining balance. We'll confirm your coverage details before treatment so there are no surprises.

How much do dentures cost?

The cost of dentures depends on the type of denture, the materials used, and the complexity of your individual situation. We're happy to discuss fees clearly and in full during your consultation — we believe in transparency so you can make an informed decision. All fees are applied equally to all patients for the same procedure.

Caring for Your Dentures
How should I clean my dentures?

Remove your dentures and rinse them after eating. Brush them daily with a soft-bristled denture brush and denture cleaner — not regular toothpaste, which can scratch the surface. When not in your mouth, store dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution to prevent them from drying out and warping.

Should I sleep with my dentures in?

Generally, it's recommended to remove your dentures at night to allow your gum tissues to rest. Store them in water or a soaking solution overnight. We'll give you specific guidance based on your situation at the time of delivery.

What should I do if my denture breaks?

Call us as soon as possible. We offer denture repairs and will do our best to see you promptly. Please don't try to repair a broken denture yourself with glue — household adhesives can damage the denture material and may make a professional repair more difficult.

Call us at (780) 436-7386

Still Have a Question?

We're happy to help. Give us a call or book a free consultation — no question is too small.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Your first consultation is free — and it's just a conversation. Come in, ask your questions, and we'll take it from there.