All You Need to Know About Dental Prosthetists | Buderim
Dental prosthetists play a vital role in the field of dental care, particularly when it comes to treating patients with missing teeth.
According to the Australian Dental Prosthetist Association, dental prosthetists are "independent practitioners in the assessment, treatment, management and provision of removable dentures, and flexible removable mouthguards used for sporting activities." Essentially, they are experts in creating and fitting dentures.
So many of our patients say that their dentures improve the quality of their life. It’s easy to forget or underestimate how missing teeth can have a significant impact on an individual's self-esteem, oral health and overall well-being.
How Darius Northey, a Buderim Dental Prosthetist, Can Help Transform Your Smile
At All Smiles Denture Clinic, we're proud to have Darius Northey as our dental prosthetist.
Darius has mastered making natural looking dentures that fit perfectly, providing his patients with a comfortable and confident smile. Whether you require new dentures or denture repairs, Darius is experienced in both and can provide you with exceptional care.
If you're in the Sunshine Coast area and in need of dentures, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us and experience the exceptional care that Darius and our team provides.
With Over 27 Years of Experience
For over 27 years, Darius Northey has been making high quality dentures.
In 2006, he opened the All Smiles Denture Clinic to provide the best personalised denture services to his patients.
One benefit of having a dental prosthetist like Darius, who has many years of experience and training, is that he has developed a high level of expertise and skill in creating and fitting dentures.
This experience directly relates to you getting comfortable and natural-looking denture that fit properly, improving both the function and appearance of the patient's teeth.
Do I Need a Referral From a Dentist to Have Dentures Made?
No.
You can get dentures made with a prosthetist without seeing a dentist. We often work closely with dentists, so referrals are not required but are welcome!
If you have not seen a dentist for a long time, we will often recommend you see a dentist to check your complete oral health. It’s important to check the health and longevity of any remaining or existing teeth.
When Do I Need a Referral From a Dentist?
Dental prosthetists may take impressions and records required for the manufacture of:
• Various types of splints;
• Sleep apnoea/anti-snoring devices;
• Immediate dentures; and
• Immediate additions to existing dentures.
These procedures require written referrals to and from dentists and any appliance or device manufactured under such arrangement must be planned, issued and managed by the treating dentist.
— ADPA, source
A dental prosthetist is an independent practitioner who works closely with dentists to ensure the best possible oral care for their patients.
Although they work independently, dental prosthetists will collaborate with dentists as required, especially for procedures like implant retained overdentures, where a structured professional relationship between the two is necessary.
By working in tandem, dental prosthetists and dentists can deliver comprehensive and effective oral care to patients.
What Type of Services Do Dental Prosthetists Offer?
• Denture Repairs & Relines
• Denture Additions
• Denture Cleans
• Implant Dentures (Overdentures)
• Partial Dentures
• Full Upper & Lower Dentures
• Metal Dentures
• Metal Free Dentures
• Digital Dentures
• Digital Impressions
• Immediate Dentures
• Flexible Dentures
• Pekk/Peak Dentures
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Prosthetists
Here are some frequently asked questions about prosthetists, denture clinics, and All Smiles Denture Clinic:
What is the difference between a dental prosthetist and a dentist?
Dental prosthetists specialise in removable dentures, while dentists have a broader scope of practice that includes other dental treatments like fillings, extractions, and root canals.
What should I expect during my first visit to All Smiles Denture Clinic?
During your initial visit to the denture clinic, we will assess your needs and determine the type of denture that would be suitable for you. We will then provide you with a quotation with a written estimate of costs.
We will walk you through the process and provide you with detailed information about the quality dental materials and teeth that we use. We will also discuss your requirements, including aesthetics and long-term options.
On average, the cost of full upper and lower dentures in Australia is between $3,800 and $5,500. This price range serves as a rough estimate and may vary depending on the specific needs and requirements of each patient.
How long does it take to get dentures made?
Generally speaking, usually our patients need 4 appointments. After your initial consult, we will book all your appointments in advance.
Our lovely ladies at the front desk are super helpful when it comes to doing this.
What training & qualifications do dental prosthetists have?
Dental prosthetists have completed a Diploma of Dental Prosthetics or a Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Technology. They are legally required to be registered nationally with the Dental Board of Australia.
Dental Board of Australia is responsible for registering all dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental and oral health therapists, and dental specialists. They must abide by the same registration criteria, guidelines, and codes of practice as other dental professionals.
Regulatory Requirements of A Dental Prosthetist in Australia
Like all other dental practitioners, dental prosthetists are required to fulfill a minimum of 60 hours of Continuing Professional Development activities during a three-year period.
Additionally, they must adhere to the guidelines and codes established by the Dental Board of Australia. These requirements specify that dental prosthetists, among other requirements, may only practice within their area of education and training..
What is the difference between a denture clinic and a dental lab?
A denture clinic provides patients with denture treatment from a dental prosthetist, while a dental lab is where dental prosthetists and technicians work together to create and repair dentures.
What is the difference between a dental prosthetist and dental technician?
In Australia, a dental prosthetist is a registered dental professional who specialices in providing removable dentures and flexible removable mouthguards. They assess, treat, and manage these prostheses.
On the other hand, a dental technician is trained in the manufacturing of dental prostheses like crowns, bridges, and dentures. However, they do not provide direct treatment to patients.
Dental prosthetists have completed either a Diploma of Dental Prosthetics or a Bachelor of Oral Health in Dental Technology to become registered professionals.
Get the Best Dentures on the Sunshine Coast
Missing teeth not only impact your oral health but also your overall quality of life. It can affect your speech, ability to eat properly, and can lower your self-esteem. Don't let missing teeth impact your oral health and quality of life.
Contact All Smiles Denture Clinic today to schedule a consultation with Darius Northey, and take the first step towards a confident smile. All Smile Denture Clinic ensures that you receive the best possible care, using state-of-the-art technology and the latest techniques.
Author - Darius Northey, Dental Prosthetist