Denture News

Denturist vs Dentist – Whats The Difference.

Denturist vs Dentist – Whats The Difference.

Denturist vs. Dentist. When exploring options for a new set of dentures, patients often wonder whether to visit their family dentist or a local denture clinic. While dentists are experts in overall oral health, denturists specialize in dentures. Let’s dive into the key differences to help you decide which option might be best for you.

Denturist vs Dental Clinic: What’s the Difference?

Denture care requires attention and expertise, whether you choose a denturist or a dental clinic. Regardless of your choice, it’s crucial that the professional you work with prioritizes your well-being. Here are a few key differences:

  • Adjustments: After receiving your dentures, there’s usually a period of adjustment—especially for first-time wearers—when the dentures might not feel quite right. Dentists, who handle a wide range of services like teeth cleaning, extractions, and crowns, may sometimes refer denture patients to denture clinics. Denturists, who focus exclusively on dentures, typically have more availability for follow-up visits. Adjustments can require 3-4+ appointments to ensure the fit is comfortable.
  • Denture Specialization: Dental clinics often outsource denture fabrication to external dental labs. Denture clinics, on the other hand, often have in-house labs, which allows them to make adjustments and modifications quickly. This direct connection doesn’t compromise the quality of the denture; in fact, it can enhance aftercare, as denturists are able to make timely changes without needing to involve an external lab. Often, adjustment appointments at a denture clinic come at no additional cost.

Scope of Practice

Denturists and dentists each have unique scopes of practice when it comes to dentures:

  • Denturists: Specialize in the design, creation, fitting, and adjustment of dentures. They work directly with patients to take impressions, craft the denture, and provide ongoing adjustments and repairs.
  • Dentists: Provide a broad range of dental services, including exams, fillings, crowns, and extractions, in addition to dentures. While dentists are qualified to provide denture services, they may not specialize in dentures as extensively as denturists do. In some provinces, denturists may work independently, while in others they work under the supervision of a dentist.

Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about your denture care.

Just like your dentist, denturists are also licensed to be able to direct bill to most benefit insurance you may have.

Why Choose a Denturist?

Choosing a denturist for your denture care offers several advantages:

  • Specialized Expertise: Denturists focus solely on denture care, which means they have extensive training and experience in creating dentures that fit comfortably and look natural.
  • Personalized Attention: Denturists work directly with patients, ensuring a more personalized and efficient experience. They can make necessary adjustments on-site, often without additional fees.
  • Competitive Pricing: Denture clinics may offer more competitive pricing and flexible payment options, making quality dentures more accessible.

Overall, choosing a denturist ensures focused care, leading to a functional, aesthetically pleasing smile that enhances your quality of life.