Can I test a trial denture before committing?
Introduction
Choosing the right denture is a crucial decision that impacts your oral health, comfort, and appearance. It’s only natural to wonder if you can test a trial denture before committing. The answer is: Yes, in many cases, you can. This blog post will explain the process and what you should expect when selecting your denture.
What is a Trial Denture?
A trial denture is a version of the final denture that is used to verify the colour, shape, and fit before the final product is manufactured. The purpose of a trial denture is to ensure that the patient is completely satisfied with the proposed solution before committing to the final version.
How Does the Trial Denture Process Work?
Once your dental professional has taken impressions of your mouth, they’ll create a trial denture. This denture is typically made of the same material as the final product – which could be acrylic, chrome, flexible (such as Valplast), injection moulded, or even 3D printed. It’s important to note that the cost of your denture may vary, depending on the type of denture and the provider.
During your fitting appointment, you’ll have the opportunity to wear and test this trial denture. This is your chance to provide feedback about the fit, comfort, appearance, and function of the denture. If adjustments are needed, your dental professional can make them to the trial denture before the final version is created. It’s important to remember that denture adjustments and relines are a common part of regular denture care.
Who Can Fit Your Denture?
Whether you’re opting for a full or partial denture, it’s essential to know who can fit your denture. Partial dentures must be prescribed and fitted by a dentist. Full dentures, on the other hand, may be fitted by Clinical Dental Technicians (GDC).
Expected Lifespan of Different Denture Types
The expected lifespan of your denture depends on the material used. According to the official guide ‘Everything You Need to Know About Dentures‘, standard acrylic dentures last for 1-3 years. High-impact acrylic dentures have a lifespan of 3-5 years, flexible dentures also last for 3-5 years, and chrome dentures can last for 8-12 years.
Conclusion
Choosing the right denture is a significant decision. Thankfully, the use of trial dentures allows you to test the product before committing fully. This allows for any necessary adjustments to be made, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction with the final product. Always consult with a dental professional to discuss your options and find a solution that best suits your needs. Remember, the cost of dentures can vary, so check out our guide to denture costs in the UK for more information.
If you have any more questions or need more information on dentures, feel free to contact our team of professionals at Smiles Centre or visit the NHS website for trusted dental advice.
