dentures_plus

How Dentures Plus is changing people’s lives

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 00:12:47 GMT

Thousands of New Zealanders are afflicted with tooth loss, whether due to facial trauma, bone loss or simple decay. One of the most popular options for restoring their lost teeth is with dentures.

In order to address some common queries from denture-wearing customers and those considering getting dentures for the first time, we spoke with well-known dental clinician Ryan Carlton.

Ryan, who owns the Dentures Plus clinics in Christchurch and Kaiapoi, has a passion for restoring people’s confidence by delivering natural-looking and comfortable dentures. According to him, the dental industry has advanced significantly in recent years with new techniques and materials becoming available. “This has allowed us to provide a superior product to our clients. But the main reason we love working with them is when they tell us about the compliments they receive from friends and family about their teeth.”

Depending on the extent of your tooth loss, you may receive either a partial or complete denture. However, today’s dentures aren’t about just replacing what has been there before. More importantly, they are about being aesthetically pleasing while feeling like a natural fit in the mouth. This is why it matters if your denture maker has the capacity to deliver.

Caring environment

The team at Dentures Plus is committed to making every denture fitting appointment a positive experience for clients. Every aspect of denture work is carried out here, whether that be full, partial, implant or immediate dentures. It is the only clinic in Christchurch to have a laser welder specifically designed for the repair of metal partial dentures.

Occlusal splints or night guards are also available. These have become more common in recent years which can be a result of stress related trauma in the jaw.

Interestingly, Ryan’s team is a global one, including his wife, Marion, who is a German-trained dental technician. “Having such an international team has helped us extend our knowledge of the many different techniques out there,” Ryan says. “Our team hails from Europe, South East Asia, South Africa, and a few Kiwis of course.”

It is recommended that clients visit before their teeth are removed so the natural face shape can be appraised, thereby ensuring the denture is sculpted more realistically. This is when the expertise of the denture makers proves invaluable, resulting in dentures that are indistinguishable from real teeth.

The team at Dentures Plus is proud of transforming the lives of their customers, while giving them the confidence to smile once again. “It gives us a deep sense of satisfaction to be able to see our customers walk away with a new set of dentures, ready to enjoy their life fully,” Ryan says.

Outside of work Ryan has a passion for motorbike racing. He has recently begun the BEARS Motorcycle Racing Club Winter Series which has thrown some interesting weather conditions at them to say the least! Dentures Plus are also very active in growing the sport of motorbike racing in NZ, we have supplied a KAYO 150cc race bike to the TR20 Race Team. This enables 7-13 year olds to get an early start in the sport and pick up necessary skills early on. Currently riding the Kayo is 10 year old Deegan Kroeze and he is planning to race bigger bikes in Australia next year.

Common denture wearing problems and how to deal with them

Mon, 30 May 2022 01:37:19 GMT

Let’s get one thing straight – dentures can significantly improve the quality of your life, helping to restore basic oral functions and overall appearance.

With dentures, a patient can chew and digest food properly, speak clearly and smile with confidence. At the same time, there are some common issues that people may encounter, especially when they first get dentures. We spoke with Ryan Carlton of Dentures Plus about this aspect of dentistry. The dental clinician, who runs clinics in Christchurch and Kaiapoi, listed out five key problems experienced by denture wearers and how to deal with them.

Trouble eating: Like a toddler learning to walk, you may find eating difficult when you first get your new dentures. They can slip out of position and reduce your chewing efficiency and bite force. Swallowing large pieces of food and eating hard foods like nuts and seeds can be challenging. Ryan recommends softer foods and making sure you cut larger foods into smaller chunks before you eat them while you learn how to use your dentures.

Sore spots: Dentures can move around and rub on your gums. Loose-fitting ones can exert excess pressure on a particular area, resulting in sore spots which can be painful and make eating more difficult. Implant supported dentures offer an excellent solution because they are more stable.

Inconvenience: Just like regular teeth, dentures too need daily cleaning. You may need to remove your dentures daily before going to bed and clean them with a denture solution. Failing to clean them can result in thrush or other dental problems, which may shorten the lifespan of your dentures.

Social phobias: The fear of removable dentures slipping while eating, chewing or speaking to someone else, and causing embarrassing moments, may cause denture wearers to withdraw from social events such as family outings, get-togethers with friends and dating. This may lead to loneliness, isolation and even depression.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, why not book a free consultation at Dentures Plus to see if the team can remedy these problems for you and help restore your confidence through your smile.

It is highly recommended you have your dentures checked at least every two years. During this check, Ryan and his team will look for oral lesions and possible cancerous lesions, which if detected early can be easier to treat.

In safe, professional hands

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 23:23:48 GMT

Getting dentures doesn’t have to be a scary experience.

Having caring clinicians is key to feeling relaxed and comfortable, and that’s just what the team at newly re-branded Dentures Plus in Kaiapoi is very good at doing.

Dentures Plus recently acquired the former Affordable Denture Clinic in Kaiapoi and when its owner/clinician healthretires, will be operating from mid-March under its new name. In the Kaiapoi Village Arcade at 123 Williams Street, the clinic will have four clinicians, working between its Innes Road clinic and the Kaiapoi one.

Compliments about dentures

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 20:28:49 GMT

It says a lot about how far we have progressed in the making and fitting of dentures when those wearing them find themselves receiving compliments about their teeth.

Today’s dentures aren’t about just replacing what has been there before. More importantly, they are about being aesthetically pleasing while feeling like a natural fit in the mouth.

Ryan Carlton of Dentures Plus is committed to making every denture fitting appointment a positive experience for clients.

Every aspect of denture work is carried out here, whether that be full, partial, implant or immediate dentures. It is the only clinic in Christchurch to have the welder specifically designed for the repair of partial dentures.

Sports mouthguards and splints are also available.

Ryan’s team is a global one, including Ryan’s wife, Marion, who is a German-trained dental technician. “Having such an international team has helped us extend our knowledge of the many different techniques out there,” Ryan says.

Ryan recommends clients visit before their teeth are removed so the natural face shape can be appraised, thereby ensuring the denture is sculpted more realistically.

This is when the expertise of the denture makers proves invaluable, resulting in dentures that are indistinguishable from real teeth.

Needing dentures isn't usually something to celebrate.

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 00:30:34 GMT

Needing dentures isn't usually something to celebrate. However, there is no escaping the feel-good factor of Dentures Plus, a long-established denture clinic on Innes Road that's renowned for putting patients' minds at ease.

Owner and dental clinician Ryan Carlton achieves much of that himself. Bearded and friendly, he races motorbikes in his spare time and is a keen family man, bringing a down-to-earth energy to a process characterised by exquisite attention to detail.

Working alongside Ryan is a team that shares his passion for restoring people's confidence through their smiles.

This can be done through full, partial, implant or immediate dentures; the clinic does it all. It even has the city's only welder specifically designed for the repair of partial dentures.

Sports mouthguards and bite splints are also available. The clinic’s sports mouthguards are custom made for each patient and offer much more protection than an over-the-counter product, while being much more comfortable to wear.

Its bite splints offer relief for those who suffer from jaw dysfunction, clenching and grinding, which can be distressing, painful, and sleep depriving!

"Patients can either come to us directly or their dentist can send us moulds to work on," Ryan says, adding that miscommunication is less likely if patients visit the clinic.

If possible, it is also a good idea to visit before teeth are removed, because this helps the denture makers see the natural shape of a person's face.

That way, the denture can be sculpted more realistically.

Teeth are then positioned with the tiny twists and turns that make the final product indistinguishable from the real thing.

An artist's touch is required and experience counts for a lot.

Ryan and his wife Marion, a German- trained denture technician, bought Dentures Plus over seven years ago and have grown the business steadily.

The couple met while working at one of New Zealand's largest denture clinics, which helped them hit the ground running at Dentures Plus as they focused on applying the latest techniques and technology to the 20-year-old practice.

"We've got a laid-back atmosphere that really puts patients at ease, and a team that hails from all over the world. That's helped us extend our knowledge of the many different techniques out there," Ryan says.

Included among the services at Dentures Plus is denture care, with check- ups advised every one to two years to ensure good oral health and a comfortable fit.

Cleaning products are available over the counter and via the Dentures Plus website, including the stand-out cleaning solution Caldent.

In-house denture cleaning can also be performed at Dentures Plus using Caldent in conjunction with a specialised denture cleaning machine, producing in a few hours a result that would take a week at home.

Don’t forget your dentures!

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 21:32:24 GMT

From giving you a beautiful smile to helping you eat, talk and laugh, full or partial dentures are a lifesaver for the elderly or anyone with tooth problems.

With modern dentures appearing even more life-like, it’s a worthy investment - and they’re built to last too, with most quality dentures surviving up to 10 years. Yet just like regular teeth, they do require some maintenance to help them last the distance.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton advises that you get a professional checkup every two to three years to ensure the denture still fits well and there are no emerging problems.

The jaw naturally changes shape over time, so it is sometimes necessary to reline the denture's interior surface to restore a comfortable, moulded fit.

If a denture becomes damaged or starts to slip, bite force can be reduced, limiting the foods you can eat. Discomfort and sores are also more likely and there’s a higher chance of the denture slipping out mid-laugh or during a conversation.

Alternatively, if you’re tired of the movement or looseness of conventional dentures, Dentures Plus offers another option for you with implant supported dentures.

Clipping on to the implants, these dentures offer a better fit and more comfort, while making eating so much easier - and you can even eat a wider range of foods!

Not everyone is suitable for them however, so Denture Plus takes care to refer patients to an implant surgeon to check the bone quality and what options are available. If implants are possible for you, the clinic can then follow-up with a custom-made implant supported denture that’s perfectly designed for your mouth and will give you comfort for years to come.

Besides these, Dentures Plus provides a full range of denture services, including the provision of full, partial, implant and "immediate" dentures.

The friendly team can also check your existing dentures and give advice on how to look after them. Supplying cleaning products including denture baths, soft-bristle toothbrushes and Caldent cleaning solution, they really are a one-stop shop for dentures.

Ryan is especially looking forward to welcoming new and returning customers. After having surgery on his broken foot seven weeks ago (which really sped up the healing process), he’s now running at full speed again, busy helping clients and enjoying his motorbike racing.

Your daily denture cleaning regime

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 19:56:48 GMT

There’s a somewhat erroneous train of thought out there around the subject of dentures as to maintenance and cleaning, with some people believing that once their dentures are fitted, they can more or less forget about them.

Ryan Carlton of Dentures Plus cautions against this casual attitude. “Just because it’s dentures, it doesn’t mean they can be neglected. Dentures can harbour bacteria and build up plaque and tartar much the same as real teeth.”

Ryan recommends that those with a complete set of dentures have a check-up every 1-2 years, while those with partial dentures have a yearly check-up.

Another thing to be aware of as regards to denture oral health is any unusual lesions or abnormalities presenting in the mouth. “If oral cancer is discovered, for example, the earlier it’s detected, the better,” Ryan says.

Dentures Plus offers a cleaning service that treats dentures with the Australian made Caldent, a denture cleaning product that’s only available at denture clinics, and which Ryan attests “makes dentures look really good!”

For a daily cleaning regime, products such as brushes, baths and soaking solutions can be ordered online from Dentures Plus, ensuring all denture wearers have complete confidence that their smile is little short of fabulous.

A fitting smile

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 20:25:04 GMT

There’s a somewhat erroneous train of thought out there around the subject of dentures as to maintenance and cleaning, with some people believing that once their dentures are fitted, they can more or less forget about them. Ryan Carlton of Dentures Plus cautions against this casual attitude.

"Just because it’s dentures, it doesn’t mean they can be neglected. Dentures can harbour bacteria and build up plaque and tartar much the same as real teeth,” he says.

Ryan recommends that those with a complete set of dentures have a check-up every one to two years, while those with partial dentures have a yearly check-up.

Another thing to be aware of as regards to denture oral health is any unusual lesions or abnormalities presenting in the mouth.

“If oral cancer is discovered, for example, the earlier it’s detected, the better,” says Ryan.

New dentures can come with teething problems

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 03:58:44 GMT

Like a new pair of shoes, dentures worn for the first time often come with some teething problems, so to speak, as the body adjusts to its newest addition.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says renewed confidence, an attractive smile and the enjoyment of new foods awaits denture wearers, but a few bumps on the path there should be expected.

The unnatural feel of newly fitted dentures is the first thing most people experience, he says. However, this feeling of the mouth being too full will soon be replaced by a “new normal” and forgotten.

Similarly, the extra saliva produced as a response to having a foreign object in the mouth will go away as the body learns that the dentures are now part of you.

Until that happens, though, the mouth might try to dislodge the dentures, Ryan says, just as it would anything else that it doesn’t think should be there. This can make the dentures feel loose. However, this too will pass, along with the initial challenges of chewing.

Should sores form, these should be seen by a denture maker so adjustments can be made, Ryan says.

dentures plus christchurch

“It’s a bit like with new shoes where you might get a blister. But instead of letting them wear in, with dentures we actually make an adjustment.”

Dentures Plus provides full aftercare services regardless of where a person’s dentures were made. With its own products, though, a number of high-tech processes help produce a comfortable, snug fit from the outset.

After a free, no obligation consultation, an impression is made using a specialised material known as alginate, from which a denture is formed first in wax and then acrylic. Using acrylic allows for the most hard-wearing and true-to-form denture possible.

Friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere is matched by a willingness to share all the details of what is often an unfamiliar process for patients, Ryan says.

“For impressions, we use one of the most accurate alginates available. It’s in the mouth less than a minute and the one we’ve got now has a really nice bubblegum flavour to it."

“The wax then replicates the pink, acrylic part of the finished denture, and people can try wearing that to see how it’s going to look and feel when finished.”

Four or five visits to the clinic are usually required as the denture is refined, although much of the action occurs behind the scenes in the Denture Plus laboratory and plaster room.

With an artist’s vision, teeth are chosen and placed according to the client’s desired style, often with the tiny twists and turns to ensure the product is not only attractive but indistinguishable from the real thing.

“It’s about taking the time to deliver what the patient wants,” Ryan says.

A selection of top-quality cleaning products and solutions for home use are also available from Dentures Plus, either over the counter or online.

Looking after your dentures is not the same as looking after your teeth

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 03:37:02 GMT

Looking after your denture is important for both the health of your mouth and the denture. It’s not the same as caring for natural teeth, though, with specialised products required.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says the Caldent cleaning solution and a soft-bristle toothbrush are the two most important items.

Both are sold by Dentures Plus over the counter and via the clinic’s website, along with denture baths and a selection of pain-relief products.

Ryan says a lot of people start running low on supplies after the holidays but they should avoid using toothpaste.

“Toothpaste is abrasive and can cause tiny scratches where food and plaque build up. That can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Caldent is by far the best option," he says.

“You should also be using a soft brush designed for dentures so you don’t wear down the teeth.

“The other thing to be careful of is that you don’t drop the denture, or it could lose its snug fit. It may be a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a basin full of water when doing the cleaning, just in case.”

A professional checkup is also advised every 2-3 years to ensure the denture still fits well and there are no emerging problems.

The jaw naturally changes shape over time, like every part of the body, so it is sometimes necessary to reline the denture’s interior surface to restore a comfortable, moulded fit.

If a denture becomes damaged or left until it starts to slip, bite force can be greatly reduced, limiting the variety of foods a person can eat. Discomfort and sores are also more likely and there is a higher chance of the denture slipping out mid-laugh or during a conversation.

Ryan says at that point, people lose the main benefits a denture provides, including a better diet and more social confidence.

“Getting dentures is a sizable investment and they may last 10 years, but you do need checkups.

“We look at the denture, gums, any remaining teeth and the tongue for abnormalities such as potential oral cancers or growths – things that can become major problems if they go unnoticed.

“If we catch an issue with the denture early on, it's usually a simple fix,” he says.

Dentures Plus provides a full range of denture services, including the provision of partial, full, implant and “immediate” dentures.

Ryan says after the disruptions of 2020, everyone at the clinic is now looking forward to the new year. He will be on light duties until the end of January, though, after breaking his foot dirt-biking.

The pastime is characteristic of the friendly, down-to-earth team who match their professionalism with plenty of support and good cheer.

“We take our job seriously but we do love to see our patients smile,” Ryan says.

Call Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517 . The clinic is located at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans.

Get the most out of your dentures

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 01:41:41 GMT

To get the most out of a denture, regular maintenance and staying alert to the natural changes in your jaw’s shape is vital. Otherwise, the benefits to appearance and diet will soon start to reverse as discomfort and the risk of infection rises.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton and his team produce dentures of all kinds, including partial, full, implant and “immediate” dentures for fitting the same day teeth are removed.

He says all styles require ongoing care but even the most diligent brusher won’t be able to prevent their jaw changing shape over time.

Both issues are critical to the effectiveness of a denture.

“If your denture is slipping, you’ve got a problem,” Ryan says. “It could be that cleaning wasn’t regular or the cleaning solution wasn’t very effective. This can allow plaque and calculus to build up not only on the teeth but also the denture itself, because that’s also a hard surface.

“Bacteria can then multiply, which causes bad breath and makes it more likely you’ll get sore gums, ulcers and an infection. You need to manually brush dentures to remove food debris and also soak them to remove stains, bacteria, plaque and calculus,”

To ensure a good clean, Ryan recommends the Caldent cleaning solution.

Caldent is much better than anything sold in supermarkets, he says, and costs only $25 for a four-month supply when bought from Dentures Plus, either online or over the counter.

The clinic also has a specialised ultrasonic cleaning machine that together with Caldent can produce a clean in a few hours that would normally take a week at home.

A tricker issue than cleaning is maintaining the fit of a denture over the long term.

Dentures might last 10 years or more but they require checkups every 2-3 years to ensure people continue receiving the benefits of the investment they have already made.

When the underlying bone changes shape as a natural part of ageing, gaps between the gum and denture can form, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and making slippage likely.

The solution may be a reline. This involves resurfacing the inside of a denture to return the snug fit of new.

Ryan says the easiest way to avoid problems is with a regular checkup programme.

“It's like a warrant of fitness for your mouth. We look at the denture, gums, any remaining teeth and the tongue for any abnormalities such as potential oral cancers or growths – things that can become major problems if left unchecked.

“A loose denture can cause a lot of problems that are unnoticeable at first but then suddenly flare up. If we catch a problem early on, it's usually a simple fix to get you back on track,” he says.

Dentures Plus operate one of the most advanced denture clinics in Christchurch with a friendly, long-serving team who regularly welcome new patients. Services available to everyone, no matter where their denture was made.

To find out more contact Dentures Plus, on 03 385 5517. The clinic is located at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans.

There is no escaping the feel-good factor of Dentures Plus

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 01:48:00 GMT

Getting dentures isn’t usually something to celebrate but there is no escaping the feel-good factor of Dentures Plus, a long-established denture clinic in St Albans renowned for putting patients’ minds at ease.

Working alongside Ryan is a team who share his passion for restoring people's confidence through their smile.

This can be done through full, partial, implant or immediate dentures – the clinic does it all. They even have the city’s only welder specifically designed for the repair of partial dentures.

Sports mouthguards and bite splints are also available.

Manufacturing of dentures is done onsite using a high-tech laboratory and a decidedly messier plaster room – that's the “fun” room, Ryan says – before a final denture is made using the acrylic-injection method for the snuggest-fitting, most durable dentures the industry can make.

"Patients can either come to us directly or their dentist can send us moulds to work on,” Ryan says, noting that miscommunication is less likely if patients visit the clinic.

Visiting before teeth are removed is an especially good idea because it helps the denture makers see the natural shape of a person’s face. That way, the denture can be sculpted more realistically.

Teeth are then positioned with the tiny twists and turns that make the final product indistinguishable from the real thing. An artist’s touch is required, and experience counts for a lot.

Ryan and his wife, Marion – a German-trained denture technician – bought Dentures Plus six years ago and since then have grown the business steadily.

The couple met while working at one of New Zealand’s largest denture clinics, which helped them hit the ground running at Dentures Plus as they brought a focus on applying the latest techniques and technology to the 20-year-old practice.

“We've got a laid-back atmosphere that really puts patients at ease, and a team that hails from all over the world. That's helped us extend our knowledge of the many different techniques out there,” Ryan says.

Included in the services at Denture Plus is denture care, with checkups advised every 1-2 years to ensure good oral health and a comfortable fit.

Cleaning products are available over the counter and via the Dentures Plus website, including the standout cleaning solution Caldent. This is far superior than any cleaner sold in supermarkets, Ryan says.

In-house denture cleaning can also be performed at Dentures Plus using Caldent used in conjunction with a specialised ultrasonic machine to produce in a few hours a result that would take a week at home.

For a free, no-obligation consultation, call Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517

When you need dentures, going without is a struggle.

Thu, 28 May 2020 00:58:51 GMT

Foods are limited, smiling brings embarrassment and every day you retreat a little more from social situations. Gradually, the physical and mental pressures take their toll.

So it was with relief that many Cantabrians welcomed the return of Dentures Plus with alert level 2, as one of Christchurch’s most popular and best-equipped denture practices resumed its full suite of services.

Full, partial, implant and immediate dentures, for fitting the same day as teeth are removed, are provided by the St Albans clinic.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says all staff were retained during the lockdown, which allowed them to hit the ground running as appointments were rebooked and new inquiries fielded.

“Our normal cross-infection protocols are very helpful at this time so people should feel comfortable coming in and talking to us about their needs. Our hygiene standards are always very high,” he says.

Ryan notes that it is a good idea to visit the clinic before getting teeth removed, because seeing the natural shape of a person's face helps the denture makers shape the denture and place the teeth in an attractive, highly realistic way.

“We often make dentures on behalf of dentists but it’s better if we can speak to the patient directly and hear what it is they’d really like. That’s the secret to a great set of dentures,” he says.

Dentures Plus makes dentures using the acrylic-injection method, which ensures durability as well as the snuggest fit possible.

Teeth come from Germany and are in good supply, as are other key items at the clinic, which has a 3D printer for impression trays and the city’s only welder designed to repair partial dentures.

Ryan spent time with his family during the shutdown – he and his wife Marion, a denture technician, have two young daughters, Linda, 7, and Holly, 5. However, he says everyone at the clinic has enjoyed seeing patients again.

“Helping people is what it’s all about so it’s great to be back. If you’re new to dentures and feel a bit unsure, or you’re a longtime wearer who’s due for a checkup, we’d love to help,” he says.

Checkups are advised every two years or annually if you still have some natural teeth.

Considered a “warrant of fitness for your mouth”, checkups allow issues to be identified and corrected before they become serious problems. The focus is usually on the fit of the denture but wider issues, such as the risk of oral cancers, can also be monitored.

To support regular cleaning at home, Dentures Plus sells a variety of care products, including the Caldent cleaning solution, which Ryan says is far superior to anything found in supermarkets. Products can be purchased over the counter at Dentures Plus or through its website.

For a free consultation or to find out more, call Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517

Are dentures easier than natural teeth?

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 23:38:46 GMT

It’s an all too common misapprehension that those with dentures have an easier time of it than those with natural teeth.

Because they look just as good as natural teeth, and because they generally last around five to ten years, there’s this “wear ‘em and forget about ‘em” belief around dentures that, however good it sounds, is not the reality.

Just like natural teeth, dentures come with problems too, and these can only be picked up by maintaining a regular denture check-up. Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton recommends at least every two years, but if there are natural teeth as well, then every year.

A regular denture problem can be ill-fitting dentures, which can cause soreness, ulcers and makes eating difficult. Visual checks for possible oral cancers and other abnormalities are also carried out in check-up visits.

As with natural teeth, the cleaner the denture is, the easier it is to maintain oral health. Dentures need to be cleaned daily with a denture toothpaste and brush to help reduce bacteria in the mouth, as well as to tackle stains, and plaque and tartar that can accumulate on dentures.

Caldent Denture Cleaner can effectively remove years of stains and built up plaque and tartar deposits. With beneficial results showing in a few days, it’s very popular with Dentures Plus clientele.

Dentures Plus are highly experienced dental professionals committed to providing the best quality service in dentures maintenance and oral health.

Dentures could mark the beginning of a new life!

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 23:47:41 GMT

For a lot of people, getting dentures marks the beginning of a renaissance in their lives, a time when smiles can be flashed without embarrassment, new foods become available, confidence soars and social occasions are looked forward to in a way they might not have been for decades.

It can be a remarkable transformation, says denture clinician Ryan Carlton, the owner of Dentures Plus.

But it doesn’t last by itself, he notes. To get the most from dentures, ongoing care and checkups are vital.

Ryan recommends a checkup every two years or annually if a person still has some of their natural teeth.

The jaw, like the rest of the body, changes shape as it ages and this can affect the fit of a denture, he explains. Sores and painful infections can result, while space is created for bacteria and plaque to build up, contributing to bad breath and growing discomfort.

Checkups are an important way to head off problems before they become more serious, Ryan says.

“It’s like a warrant of fitness for your mouth. We look for signs of tooth wear and ill-fitting dentures, which are one of the main causes of soreness, ulcers, and difficulty eating. We also do a visual check for possible oral cancers and other abnormalities. “ If we can catch issues with a denture early, it’s usually an easy fix.”

Ryan says people who don’t act might find themselves unable to eat anything but soft foods, which then undoes the gains of a more varied diet.

Signs that dentures need adjusting or replacing include sore gums, sore natural teeth or dentures that slip or break frequently.

“Some people notice they just aren’t happy with the appearance of their dentures. That’s important too because dentures do a lot for a person’s confidence and provide real benefits to mental wellbeing. So we make all our dentures as attractive and lifelike as possible,” Ryan says.

Dentures Plus is one of Christchurch's most advanced denture clinics, providing full, partial, immediate and implant dentures from a friendly, high-tech facility in St Albans. Among their equipment is the South Island’s only welder designed specifically for the repair of partial dentures.

Onsite denture-cleaning is also available using a specialised ultrasonic device with the Caldent cleaning solution. This provides a clean in a few hours that would normally take a week at home.

Dentures Plus sells Caldent and other care items over the counter and online. It is more effective than anything found on supermarket shelves, and at $23 for a four-month supply is also highly affordable.

There is no substitute for regular maintenance, though.

“I recommend at least twice-daily brushing in addition to using Caldent for regular soaking to help remove stains and plaque and tartar buildup. The cleaner the denture, the easier it is to maintain oral health.”

Checkups are available at Dentures Plus regardless of where a denture was made.

To find out more, call Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517. The clinic is located at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans.

Dentures Plus are a friendly bunch...

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 00:33:03 GMT

When not seeing patients or sculpting attractive, ultra-realistic dentures, Ryan Carlton can often be found tearing around a racetrack on his motorbike.

The owner of Dentures Plus, Ryan is a key figure in this month’s Sound of Thunder racing meet, being held February 22-23 at Mike Pero Motorsport Park, Ruapuna.

He has sponsored the event through his clinic for the past four years while also competing at speeds sure to test even the steadiest pair of hands in the lab.

The change of pace is a welcome chance to blow off steam, he says.

It also shows the modern face of an industry that, while often supporting older patients, is filled with professionals who in many cases are robust, down-to-earth characters with a knack for taking the pressure out of denture consultations.

Bearded, tattooed and with a ready smile, Ryan also has a young family to cheer him on from the sidelines.

“I’ve really got three passions,” he says. “My family, racing and making dentures. The last one surprises some of my racing friends but I really enjoy helping people get dentures. It makes such a difference to a person’s quality of life so being able to be part of that by giving them a beautiful new smile again is really rewarding. Of course, some people think it’s the racing that’s a little incongruous.”

Ryan hasn’t always been a biker. It wasn’t until 2016 that he took up the pastime – two years after becoming owner of Dentures Plus and almost 20 years since he became a qualified denture clinician.

"I mainly focus on BEARS racing but I also love street racing, especially the Greymouth Street Race held over Labour weekend,” he says.

“This month’s Sound of Thunder is going to be huge. It’s the fourth year Dentures Plus has been sponsoring it and it keeps getting better. You get the motorbike enthusiasts out there but also lots of families. Some of the kids have an absolute blast.”

Ryan will be competing on his American-built 2010 Buell, hoping for a repeat of last year when he won all four of his races in the Milwaukee Iron 4v class.

The event is only a short break for Ryan, though, as strong demand for services from Dentures Plus keeps the whole team busy year-round at the Innes Rd clinic.

Dentures Plus is one of the South Island’s most advanced denture makers, with an array of high-tech equipment including a 3D printer and the city’s only welder designed specifically for repairing partial dentures.

“We’re a friendly bunch who work hard and play hard. Well, I do, at least,” Ryan says with a laugh.

New patients are always welcome, he adds, and new fans at the racetrack even more so.

The Sound of Thunder is being held February 22-23 at Mike Pero Motorsport Park, Ruapuna. Tickets cost $20 per day with free entry for kids.

To get in touch about dentures, call Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517

Dentures Plus Feature in The Press - Health & Wellbeing secion

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 23:27:28 GMT

It can be tough having bad teeth or slipping dentures in the season of smiles.

A well-made set of dentures can do wonders for a person’s confidence and self-esteem by giving them a smile to be proud of. Dentures also make it possible to enjoy a wider variety of food, taking the stress out of group dining and ultimately leading to better physical health as diets improve.

Yet many people will be approaching Christmas and summer get-togethers with a sense of trepidation. Embarrassment over missing teeth or concern that an existing denture could slip out mid-laugh can take much of merriment out of the season.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says his clinic often makes dentures for people who later say they wish they had acted sooner.

Ryan says while it may be too late for new dentures to be finished before Christmas – the process takes several visits over a number of weeks – what a lot of people need most is simply some encouragement to get started.

“Anything to do with your teeth can be quite an intimate process, which some people find worrying. We’ve got a very friendly and relaxed clinic, and that puts people’s minds at ease quite quickly. But it’s reaching out for that first appointment which can be hard," he says.

“Dentures can make a big difference to someone's quality of life so helping them access that support can be very special way to show you care."

Dentures Plus provides free initial consultations and has full manufacturing facilities onsite.

The clinic’s equipment is among the most advanced in the world, with dentures made using the industry-leading acrylic injection method. A specialised welder is available for repairs to partial dentures and a 3D printer was recently added.

All types of denture are made at the Innes Rd clinic, including full, partial, implanted and “immediate” dentures for fitting the same day teeth are removed.

If people who already have dentures, maintenance is a must.

Tartar grows on hard surfaces. This is usually limited to teeth, however the surface of dentures provides a larger area for the hardened plaque to cover, which can cause bad breath and a poor fit, leading to discomfort, sores and possible infection.

The jaw also changes shape over time, making it strongly advised denture wearers have a checkup every 2-3 years.

“It’s like a warrant of fitness for your mouth,” Ryan says. “We can make sure everything is okay and identify any problems early, including health-related issues like oral cancers.”

A variety of denture care products are also available from Dentures Plus. This includes the standout cleaning solution Caldent.

For urgent cleaning, Dentures Plus offers a same-day service that combines Caldent with a specialised ultrasonic machine to produce a result in a few hours that would take a week at home.

* For a free consultation or more information, call Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517 . The clinic is located at 396 Innes Road, St Albans.

New techniques in denture application

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 12:00:00 GMT

When it comes to denture care, advancements in technology and attitudes have changed the game in recent years.

Leading dental experts have been adapting and introducing new techniques in denture application, resulting in dentures with the look, feel and function of natural teeth.

Established in the late 1990s, Dentures Plus has grown to become one of the most experienced dental labs in the country, manufacturing full and partial dentures, implant retained dentures, flexible partial dentures, bite splints, denture repairs, relines and custom-made mouth guards.

There are many reasons people choose dentures, implants and bridging, including those who have lost teeth due to an accident, medical issues or have had poor oral health. All dentures are personally designed and created for the client, to ensure a more comfortable and natural fit.

At Dentures Plus, many options are available, and during your initial consultation we can explain those different options for you and help you make the right decision.

To help return your winning smile and confidence, give Dentures Plus a call today for a no-obligation, free consultation, to discuss the latest advances in technology with a highly-skilled professional.

For more information, visit www.denturesplus.co.nz

3D printers behind this latest denture development

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 12:00:00 GMT

Dentures have come a long way since the ancient Italians started filling gaps with animal and human teeth in the seventh century BC.

There are now 50 million dentures produced globally each year, including a small but growing number of “digital dentures”.

The 3D printers behind this latest development have been making inroads for several years, as the technology and materials used continue to improve.

This month, Dentures Plus is installing its own 3D printer as part of a looming change for the industry that should eventually make dentures more accessible, affordable and accurate.

The clinic’s German-designed Kulzer printer is unlikely to be used for permanent dentures – the technology isn’t quite there – but it will provide a new option for temporary dentures and impression trays.

It will streamline some of the processes and give us a good head start on digital dentures. There is less wastage of material and it should be more accurate, but at first it’s mainly going to be used as a diagnostic tool.

Dentures Plus is already one of the best-equipped denture clinics in Christchurch, with the city’s only welder specifically designed for denture repairs, and manufacturing facilities spread across several rooms.

The team currently make dentures using the acrylic injection method, the industry’s gold standard for producing snug, hard-wearing dentures. The process isn’t about to change, although behind the scenes it is likely the 3D printer will play a growing role in planning for dentures.

The clinic makes full, partial, implant and immediate dentures – for fitting the same day teeth are removed – and also has an online store selling maintenance essentials.

These include the Caldent cleaning solution, which Ryan says is by far the best denture cleaner on the market. There are also brushes, baths and treatments for pain relief.

Strong demand for services from Dentures Plus often sees the clinic booked weeks in advance, which means for people keen to get new dentures before Christmas, now is the time to plan.

To find out more, contact Dentures Plus on 03 385 5517 or visit denturesplus.co.nz. The clinic is located at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans.

Canterbury Special Children’s Christmas Party

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 12:00:00 GMT

Canterbury Special Children’s Christmas Party

Dentures Plus is delighted to be a long term major sponsor of the Canterbury Special Children’s Christmas Party. The special children’s Christmas party is Canterbury’s largest party for special children. SCCP works closely with local charities, schools, community groups and government organisations to select these special children. The children invited are unfortunately suffering from one or more of the following: Life threatening illness, physical and intellectual impairment, domestic violence and/or living in underprivileged circumstances.

The goal is simple: To put smiles on these children’s faces for at least one day of the year!

Implant, regular or immediate dentures - what is the right fit for you?

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 12:00:00 GMT

No matter how realistic they appear, dentures are never as good as well-maintained natural teeth, so anything that improves fit and function is a big deal.

Most first-time denture wearers opt for traditional floating dentures, although it is telling that longtime users keen for a better experience usually go for implants. Implants cost more than floating dentures but few people who make the switch ever regret it.

Using small clips embedded in the jaw, implant-retained dentures provide a stronger bite and put an end to worries that a denture could come loose mid-laugh or while eating.

You might have only half your bite force with a full lower denture. That can be greatly increased with implants, which makes eating much more pleasant and increases the range of foods you can eat. Getting the implants is a simple procedure but it can make the denture much more stable.

People with dentures are often limited to foods they can eat successfully, which can present problems when going to a restaurant or a friend’s house for dinner. For some people, the pain and embarrassment of poorly fitting dentures is enough to stop them going out at all.

With implants, the denture can still be removed for cleaning or any other time the wearer wants, but when attached will stay securely in place.

The clips that hold the denture are implanted by an oral surgeon or dentist and usually take a couple of months to bed in.

The denture, meanwhile, is prepared by a specialist clinic such as Dentures Plus, which has one of the best-equipped facilities in Christchurch.

Implant, regular and “immediate” dentures – which can be fitted the same day teeth are removed – are custom-made for patients using high-tech fabrication processes at the St Albans clinic.

Acrylic is used to produce hard-wearing dentures with the snuggist, most true-to-form fit the industry can provide, while teeth are painstakingly positioned with the tiny twists and turns that ensure a finish indistinguishable from the real thing.

Sometimes a patient’s existing denture can be used for attaching to implants.

Dentures of all kinds require proper upkeep if they are to remain comfortable and free of the bacteria that can cause bad breath. Unfortunately, most cleaning solutions sold in supermarkets do a poor job of removing the plaque and bacteria that can build up on not only the teeth but also the denture, by far the best cleaning product is Caldent.

Known to be the gold standard in denture cleaning solutions, Caldent is sold over the counter at Dentures Plus or online through our website. Solution baths, brushes, pastes and options for pain relief are also available.

We offer a free consultation to allow us to evaluate your dentures and give you all the options

Dentures Plus is located at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans. Call us on 03 385 5517 or shop online at denturesplus.co.nz.

Improve fit and function

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 12:00:00 GMT

No matter how realistic they appear, dentures are never as good as well-maintained natural teeth, so anything that improves fit and function is a big deal.

Most first-time denture wearers opt for traditional fitting dentures, although it is telling that longtime users keen for a better experience usually go for implants.

Using small clips embedded in the jaw, implant-retained dentures provide a stronger bite and put an end to worries that a denture could come loose mid-laugh or while eating.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says implants cost more than traditional dentures but few people who make the switch ever regret it.

“You might have only half your bite force with a full lower denture. That can be greatly increased with implants, which makes eating much more pleasant and increases the range of foods you can eat."

“Getting the implants is a simple procedure but it can make the denture much more stable.”

Ryan says people with dentures are often limited to foods they can eat successfully, which can present problems when going to a restaurant or a friend’s house for dinner. For some people, the pain and embarrassment of poorly fitting dentures is enough to stop them going out at all.

With implants, the denture can still be removed for cleaning or any other time the wearer wants, but when attached will stay securely in place.

The clips that hold the denture are implanted by an oral surgeon or dentist and usually take a couple of months to bed in.

The denture, meanwhile, is prepared by a specialist clinic such as Dentures Plus, which has one of the best-equipped facilities in Christchurch.

Implant, regular and “immediate” dentures – which can be fitted the same day teeth are removed – are custom-made for patients using high-tech fabrication processes at the St Albans clinic.

Sometimes a patient’s existing denture can be used for attaching to implants.

“We offer a free consultation to allow us to evaluate your dentures and give you all the options,” Ryan says.

Dentures of all kinds require proper upkeep if they are to remain comfortable and free of the bacteria that can cause bad breath.

Unfortunately, most cleaning solutions sold in supermarkets do a poor job of removing the plaque and bacteria that can build up on not only the teeth but also the denture, Ryan says.

By far the best cleaning product is Caldent, he says.

Known to be the gold standard in denture cleaning solutions, Caldent is sold over the counter at Dentures Plus or online through the clinic’s website. Solution baths, brushes, pastes and options for pain relief are also available.

Exciting things happening in the world of dentures!

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 12:00:00 GMT

“There are exciting things happening in the world of dentures. We’ve really embraced the digital age and its associated technology. ”

Ryan Carlton of Dentures Plus has recently been to IDS, the leading global trade fair of the dental industry in Cologne, Germany. “IDS presents the most important concepts and advances for the practices and laboratories of today and tomorrow. I was looking in particular at 3D printing of dentures.“

Ryan says that 3D printing of dental appliances is not only accurate, but it is quick, helps to streamline the making of high quality polymer-based dentures and is far less messy than creating plaster models. It also reduces the amount ofmaterial required and is a rather more pleasant experience for patients.

"As 3D printer techology becomes more accessible the cost of use is also going down. I have been waiting for an all-in-one system that covers virtually the whole process and that is now available from a company called Kulzer. My patients can look forward to 3D printed dentures when I introduce the tecnhnique over the next few months. It will be great for them and stimulating for me as well.“

Don't skip out on your denture care!

Wed, 01 May 2019 12:00:00 GMT

Dentures are a significant investment with massive payoffs by way of improved diet, appearance and self-confidence, so it makes sense to maintain them.

However, many people either skip their daily maintenance, use a substandard cleaning product or are missing the regular in-clinic check ups so important for a lasting good fit, this most commonly shows as bad breath.

With tartar and bacteria able to form on the hard surfaces of dentures as well as teeth, people need to take care to clean the hidden and visible parts of a denture

For this, Caldent is the best cleaning solution on the market. Made in Australia, Caldent is dissolved in warm water and used to soak dentures for 15-30 minutes before a light brush to remove plaque and staining. An overnight soak might be necessary the first time but then once a week is usually enough.

Caldent is much better than anything you’ll find in the supermarket, which makes it one of the most important products for someone with dentures to have.

If plaque and calculus are allowed to build up, it can change the fit of the denture and cause irritation and soreness to the gums. There's also a chance of ulcers and infection.

Dentures need manual brushing to remove food debris but they also need to be soaked to remove stains, bacteria, plaque and calculus.

Caldent is available over the counter at Dentures Plus or via our website for home delivery. A box of 16 single-use sachets which is enough for four months costs $23.

For especially hard-to-clean dentures, the clinic has a specialised ultrasonic cleaning machine that in a few hours can produce a result that would take a week at home.

There is more to denture maintenance than just cleaning, though. Teeth wear and eventually need replacing, and normal changes in the shape of the mouth over time can require dentures to be adjusted or replaced.

Once dentures lose their snug fit and start to slip or pinch the gum, eating becomes more difficult, soreness increases and the likelihood of infections grows, to avoid this, professional checkups every 2-3 years are advised.

It's like a warrant of fitness for your mouth. We check the denture, gums, any remaining teeth and the tongue for abnormalities such as potential oral cancers or growths that could turn into a major problem if left unchecked.

A loose denture can cause a lot of unnoticeable problems and disguise issues that could flare up. But if we catch problems early, it's normally a simple fix to get you back on track.

Dentures Plus provides full and partial dentures in a variety of styles, as well as repairs, having the city’s only welder specifically designed for dentures.

Our online shop supplies denture care products, including cleaning pastes and solutions, denture baths, brushes and gels, sprays and solutions for pain relief.

Dentures Plus is located at 396 Innes Rd, St Albans. Call us on 03 385 5517 or shop online at denturesplus.co.nz.

Dentures Plus - Work Hard - Play Hard

Sat, 27 Apr 2019 12:00:00 GMT

Dentures patients quickly find a lot to smile about as they show off their new teeth, but for the man who makes some of the city’s finest dentures, there’s nothing like motorbike racing to bring out a grin.

Ryan Carlton is the owner of Dentures Plus, and while the clinic in St Albans is bright and clean, Ryan’s spare time is decidedly grubbier, with black leathers, the smell of fuel and the roar of the racetrack filling his weekends.

This month, Ryan’s two passions come together with the Sound of Thunder motorbike racing event at Ruapuna, for which Dentures Plus is the major sponsor.

Ryan will be competing in two classes at the February 23-24 race meeting, and the picture of him tearing around the track, inches from the asphalt, helps explains how Dentures Plus has become one of the city’s most welcoming and down-to-earth practices.

It is also one of Christchurch’s best-equipped clinics, providing new dentures, repairs and refits for patients and dentists from across New Zealand.

Ryan took over the business in 2014, following a period in New Brighton and before that 10 years with the country’s largest denture lab. It was there he met his wife-to-be, Marion, a German-trained denture technician who today helps make up the highly skilled team at Dentures Plus.

With multiple rooms for full denture services, they use the latest techniques and technology to create dentures with a fit and style unique to each person.

The work is precise and has little margin for error. The racetrack holds similar challenges for Ryan, but it’s also a chance to blow off steam so he’s fresh and attuned when seeing patients, he says.

Raised in Fairlie and Dunedin, he didn’t start motorbike racing until 2016, nearly 20 years after he started making dentures.

“I played a lot of ice hockey in Dunedin but I didn’t start racing until a friend loaned me his bike for a race at Ruapuna, and that was all it took – I was hooked,” he says.

“I mainly focus on BEARS racing but I also love street racing, especially the Greymouth Street Race held over Labour weekend.

“Dentures Plus sponsored the Sound of Thunder in 2017 and 2018 and this year I’m the major sponsor. Riders and bikes travel from all over New Zealand, as well as some from Australia and sometimes even further abroad. We also sponsor some other riders to help them do what they love.”

Ryan will be riding his 2010 Buell in two classes at this month’s Sound of Thunder: Milwaukee Iron, for American-built bikes, and Formula One.

With any luck, he’ll be smiling as freely as his patients by the close of weekend.

Dentures Plus going 3D

Sat, 27 Apr 2019 12:00:00 GMT

“There are exciting things happening in the world of dentures. We’ve really embraced the digital age and its associated technology. ”

Ryan says that 3D printing of dental appliances is not only accurate, but it is quick, helps to streamline the making of high quality polymer-based dentures and is far less messy than creating plaster models. It also reduces the amount of material required and is a rather more pleasant experience for patients.

"As 3D printer technology becomes more accessible the cost of use is also going down. I have been waiting for an all-in-one system that covers virtually the whole process and that is now available from a company called Kulzer. My patients can look forward to 3D printed dentures when I introduce the technique over the next few months. It will be great for them and stimulating for me as well.“

Dentures make a difference to the mental wellbeing of wearers every day

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 11:00:00 GMT

Dentures make a difference to the mental wellbeing of wearers every day by boosting the confidence, and to their physical health by opening up diets to a wider range of foods.

These benefits – and their absence – are never felt more acutely than during the festive season.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says a lot of people in need of new or better dentures approach social events with trepidation.

Worries over appearance, being unable to eat the same food as others and what would happen if a denture slipped out usually top the list of concerns.

But while there are solutions for all scenarios, people often need help taking the first step, Ryan says.

Dentures Plus has a naturally relaxed and friendly environment to ease people into the life-changing transformation dentures can herald. Questions and support people are welcomed and great care is taken to produce highly realistic dentures that look and fit exactly how the patient wants.

“It’s not a scary process and we can help people before or after they've seen a dentist for extractions. If they need, we can recommend a dentist,” Ryan says.

“There are some people who are busy looking after everyone except themselves, so helping someone like that get dentures can really mean a lot, especially at this time of year.”

Patients at Dentures Plus have access to one of the best-equipped clinics in Christchurch. As well as standard full and partial dentures, there are “immediate” dentures for wearing the same day as teeth are extracted, and implant dentures, offering the securest fit of all.

All are made using the acrylic injection method that ensures the most precise fit the industry can produce, for long-term comfort and durability.

Even the best made dentures need adjusting or replacing as the gums and jaw change shape with age, though.

There are wider health issues to consider, too, and as such Ryan recommends a checkup at least every 2-3 years, even if everything seems fine.

"It's like a warrant of fitness for the mouth," he says. “We check the denture, gums, any remaining teeth and the tongue for abnormalities such as potential oral cancers or growths that could turn into a major problem if left unchecked.

“If you've got a loose denture, that can cause a lot of unnoticeable problems and disguise potential issues that could flare up. But if we catch problems early, it's normally simple to fix and get you back on track.”

Denture care products are also available from Dentures Plus, either over the counter or via the website.

This includes the industry-leading Caldent solution, which Ryan says cleans far more effectively than anything sold in supermarkets.

For urgent denture cleaning – before a Christmas party or holiday away, for example – Dentures Plus can provide a one-day clean using Caldent with a specialised ultrasonic machine. This gives a result in a few hours that would take a week at home.

Dentures Plus Team

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 11:00:00 GMT

When coming to Dentures Plus, it’s not just one person you see or who works on your case. Rather, there is a team of skilled people at the St Albans clinic helping make the experience a successful and enjoyable one.

Practice manager Paulette Dench is the friendly face greeting visitors once through the door. She helps get patients settled in and, if it’s their first time visiting, will supply the the “new patient” form to fill out.

With its own onsite laboratory and denture-making rooms, much of the action at Dentures Plus happens behind the scenes.

Central to this aspect is Marion Carlton, one of the owners of Dentures Plus and a German-qualified dental technician. She applies her artistic skills to crafting beautiful sets of personalised dentures.

An artist by nature, she has a number of her works gracing the walls of the waiting room and reception area.

Another key member of the team is Paula Brickman, who has worked at Dentures Plus for about 20 years. Her love of arts and crafts is what lead her into the industry and continues to fuel her love for making dentures.

Seeing patients directly, meanwhile, are the clinicians – reassuring and informative people who guide patients through the whole denture process, from taking initial mouldings to helping them select the teeth for the look they want.

They will also discuss any last-minute tweaks patients might might want before the model, initially made in wax, is set in durable acrylic.

Clinician Nicole Yee has been at Dentures Plus for more than six years. Currently, in her third and final year of studying for a maxillofacial master’s qualification, she will soon be able to make and fit prosthetics devices such as false eyes, ears and noses. It is a significant skill set that will complement her already advanced denture-making abilities.

The other clinician at Dentures Plus is co-owner Ryan Carlton.

It was Ryan’s love of artwork and metalwork at high school that lead him into the industry. Nowadays, when he’s not at seeing patients, sculpting dentures or getting messy in the clinic’s plaster room, he can often be found at the racetrack with his motorbike racing with friends.

Ryan is keen to see others follow their passion for motorbike racing and to help provides a little sponsorship for a few riders, one those being Dillon Telford, who is currently racing in Italy and living his dream.

Dentures Plus also stocks everything needed to keep dentures clean and hygienic, with purchases available either over the counter or via this website.

Taking your teeth for granted can end up costing you dearly

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 11:00:00 GMT

Taking your teeth for granted can end up costing you dearly, and it’s the same with dentures, which have their own special maintenance needs.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says keeping dentures clean is vital for good hygiene and comfortable long-term use.

Bad breath is one of the first signs dentures may may need closer attention, although the bacteria contributing to the odour are not always obvious to wearers, Ryan says.

A closer look will often reveal an accompanying buildup of plaque and calculus on the denture, including its hard-wearing acrylic “gum” part – an area that with natural teeth is not available for brushing.

Ryan says plaque and calculus, or tartar, provide an ideal environment for bacteria to hide and multiply, and its removal is important for both oral hygiene and comfort.

“If plaque and calculus are allowed to build up, it can change the fit of the denture and cause irritation and soreness to the gums. There’s also chance of ulcers and infection.

“Dentures need manual brushing to remove food debris but they also need need to be soaked in a cleaning solution such as Caldent. This helps remove stains, bacteria, plaque and calculus.”

Checkups at a denture clinic should also be scheduled every two to three years to ensure potentially serious issues aren’t going unnoticed.

Given dentures' initial cost and their importance for diet, self-esteem and social confidence, looking after them is a relatively small price to pay, Ryan says.

“A consultation every two or three years is a good idea even if everthing seems fine. It’s a bit like a warrant of fitness for the mouth.

“At Dentures Plus, we check the denture, gums, any remaining teeth and the tongue for any abnormalities such as potential oral cancers or growths that could turn into a major problem if left unchecked.

“A loose denture can cause a lot of unnoticeable problems and disguise potential issues that could flare up. If we catch these problems early, it’s normally simple to fix and get you back on track.”

Dentures Plus provides a full suite of denture services at its St Albans clinic, which has a laboratory and full denture-making facilities alongside its consultation rooms. It is one of the few facilities in New Zealand with a laser welder made specifically to repair partial dentures.

Cleaning products, including brushes, solutions and bathes for dentures, are sold over the counter and via the Denture Plus website.

Caldent is easily the best cleaning solution on the market and far superior to anything in supermarkets, Ryan says.

For people who want to restore their dentures quickly, Dentures Plus also offers a cleaning service that uses an specialised ultrasonic machine in combination with Caldent. This can produce a result in a few hours that would take a week at home.

Dentures Plus is proud to support NZ Superbike Team TR20

Sun, 15 Jul 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Dentures Plus is proud to support NZ Superbike Team TR20

Dentures Plus is proud to support NZ Superbike Team TR20 racing in Italy again this season. Rider Dillon Telford and his partner Jo Taylor (mechanic, organiser, promo girl), are in the middle of their second season racing in Italy. This year they are riding the Gabro Racing Team Aprilia Tuono, and in his first race this season Dillon took the bike on its fastest lap around the MotoGP track Mugello!

Dillon and Jo have sacrificed everything to get back to Italy for this season and are on a shoe string budget. If you want to follow their progress head over to their facebook page TR20, you can also become a Patreon member and donate to their dream, any little bit helps. As a patreon member you will receive updates and news before the general public.

Show your support and help this Kiwi couple live their dream motorbike racing.

Implant-supported Dentures

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 12:00:00 GMT

Dentures can be hard to get use to, and even people who have worn dentures for years can still struggle with eating and the movement that can occur.

Getting new dentures or a reline can often solve these issues, but not always, especially with a full lower denture.

Dentures Plus owner Ryan Carlton says people might have only half their bite force with a full lower denture, so anything that improves the fit and reduces slippage of the denture is extremely helpful.

Implant-supported dentures are one of the best solutions here, Carlton says.

Essentially an upgrade to floating dentures, they clip onto tiny metal implants that remain in the gum, allowing people to remove the denture whenever they want but providing much greater security when attached.

“They can greatly improve your bite force, which makes eating much more pleasant and increases the range of foods you can eat.

“Denture wearers are often limited to what foods they can eat successfully, so going out to restaurants or a friend’s house for dinner can present a lot of problems – some people will avoid going out altogether to avoid the pain and embarrassment.

“Getting the implants is a simple procedure but it can make the denture much more stable,” Carlton says.

Implants are placed by an oral surgeon or dentist and usually take a couple of months to bed in before the denture is fitted.

Implant, regular and “immediate” dentures, either full or partial, are made by Dentures Plus at its St Albans clinic.

In every case, the denture is customised to the wearer’s preferences, using the acrylic for the most comfortable fit possible and high-grade teeth that are positioned with the tiny twists and turns that make them indistinguishable from the real thing.

Sometimes a patient’s existing denture can be used for attaching to implants.

“A free consultation with us will allow us to evaluate your dentures and give you all the options,” Carlton says.

While implant dentures are a popular choice among people who already have dentures and want to improve their experience, first-time wearers often opt for “immediate dentures”. These are fitted the same day teeth are extracted and allow people to avoid the embarrassment of walking around without teeth.

With all denture types, proper upkeep is essential if they are remain comfortable and free of the bacteria that can cause bad breath.

Unfortunately, many cleaning solutions sold in supermarkets do a poor job of removing the plaque and bacteria that builds up not only on the teeth but the denture itself, Carlton says.

The best cleaning product by far is Caldent, he says. Dentures Plus sells this directly to the public either over the counter its clinic on Innes Rd or online via its website.

Other cleaning products, such as solution baths, brushes and pastes, are also available.

Immediate Dentures

Thu, 24 May 2018 12:00:00 GMT

You start the day with bad teeth and gaps in your smile and end it beaming proudly to all and sundry. Such is the effect of immediate dentures.

Fitted the same day as teeth are extracted, immediate dentures are the top choice for most first-time denture wearers, says clinician Ryan Carlton, the owner of Dentures Plus in St Albans.

As well as allowing people to avoid the embarrassment of a collapsed-looking face, they also help gums heal after teeth have been removed, acting as a bandage over tender tissue, he says.

Dentists fit such dentures immediately, however, the actual crafting of dentures is done by specialized clinics, and choosing a clinic independently gives people added control over quality, Carlton says.

Dentures Plus operates one of the most technologically advanced clinics in New Zealand and regularly produces dentures for dentists around the country. It is also home to the only laser welder in Christchurch specifically designed for the repair of metal partial dentures.

Patients who visit the clinic directly find a relaxed, friendly environment that soon puts them at ease, says Carlton, a motorbike enthusiast often found at the racetrack in his spare time.

“There are a variety of reasons people might need to get teeth extracted, and getting your first set of dentures can be quite a daunting decision to make. We always try to make people feel as comfortable as possible about it. We also keep them informed through the whole process,” he says.

Gums change shape quite soon after teeth are extracted, so follow-up visits to adjust dentures are usually required a week or two after they are first fitted. There is no charge for this at Dentures Plus.

After about six months, once the surrounding bone and gums have settled into their new shape, a final reline is made and “immediate dentures” become permanent.

The teeth, carefully chosen and positioned according to clients’ wishes, remain the same throughout.

To maintain dentures in good condition, Dentures Plus supplies the industry-leading Caldent cleaning solution, either over the counter at the clinic on Innes Rd or via its website.

“It’s the best stuff on the market. It works far better than anything else,” Carlton says.

“Sometimes people have bad breath and it’s actually coming from the denture. Plaque and tartar will build up on any hard surface and that can lead to sores and bacteria. Soaking in Caldent removes all that and gets the denture back to the nice clean acrylic.”

Anyone unsure which dentist to see for extractions can get a referral from Dentures Plus at their first consultation, which as with aftercare, is free.

Problems Associated with their Dentures

Sun, 29 Apr 2018 12:00:00 GMT

People may not be aware of any problems associated with their dentures. When they develop slowly over time, they adapt and think it is normal.

“Common issues we see with denture wearers are sore or irritated gums, difficulty eating properly, loss of lip or facial support, more wrinkles around the mouth, sore jaw, increased headaches, loose or slipping dentures, and sores at the corners of the lips,” says Ryan Carlton of Dentures Plus.

He says pressure and or rubbing can be quite painful, usually a result of chewing but also clenching of teeth or bruxism (grinding the teeth). Other causes may be hard foods, like small seeds getting underneath dentures, or denture teeth that need adjusting, relining or replacement.

Worn or ill-fitting dentures can make it hard to chew and eat properly. As the teeth flatten off over time it’s harder to cut and chew food effectively. Worn teeth also lose their height and bring the lower jaw up further, compressing the lips and giving the face a sunken-in look, more wrinkles, and sores at the corners of the lips. “Dentures need to be replaced to resolve this. Worn teeth can also lead to a sore jaw and headaches as it puts more pressure on the joint and surrounding muscles.”

“Many patients worry new dentures will make them look ‘horsey’ or ‘all teeth’, but although they may show a little more teeth with new dentures, they should look natural - like they belong to the face. At Dentures Plus we make sure each patient is very happy with the final result, including their look and smile.”

Teething problems