Lost Dentures During a Patient's Hospital Stay: A Common Problem and How We Can Help

Lost Dentures in NHS Hospitals? Private Mobile Dental Service in Worthing, Sussex, Surrey, and London

Losing dentures during a hospital stay is an increasingly common issue that can cause significant distress for patients. Whether it's due to a short stay for a routine procedure or a longer stay for more serious health concerns, misplaced or lost dentures can severely impact a patient's ability to eat properly, chew, and maintain their overall comfort. Unfortunately, this issue is all too familiar within hospitals across Worthing, Sussex, Surrey, and London.

Hospitals are busy environments where patients are often moved between wards, and their personal belongings, including dentures, can easily become misplaced. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as being moved to a different bed, confusion among hospital staff, or simply being misplaced by the patient themselves, particularly if they are unwell or disoriented. The impact of lost dentures can be profound, leading to difficulty in eating, discomfort, and even embarrassment, especially if the patient is in the hospital for an extended period.

For patients, the loss of dentures is more than just an inconvenience; it is a significant healthcare issue. Without dentures, patients may struggle with chewing, leading to nutritional challenges and discomfort. This problem can be particularly acute for elderly patients, who are more likely to be admitted for long-term care. It’s crucial for hospital staff, including nurses and healthcare assistants, to be aware of the importance of dentures and take extra care to prevent them from being lost.

At the Clinic for Implant & Orthodontic Dentistry in Worthing, we understand the distress that lost dentures can cause. That’s why we offer a comprehensive mobile dental service, also known as a domiciliary dental service, to assist patients who have lost their dentures during a hospital stay. Our team of experienced dentists can visit patients directly in the hospital, whether in Worthing, Sussex, Surrey, or London, to provide immediate assistance.

Our mobile dental service is designed to be convenient and efficient, ensuring that patients who have lost their dentures can quickly get a replacement. We offer a range of denture options, including fully acrylic dentures and cobalt chrome dentures for both upper and lower teeth. These high-quality dentures are custom-made to fit each patient’s needs, allowing them to regain their ability to eat, chew, and speak comfortably.

For patients staying in NHS hospitals, we provide detailed information on the costs associated with replacement dentures and offer support in navigating the process to ensure they receive the care they need. As a private practice, our service is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be able to visit a dental practice due to their hospital stay or health condition.

In addition to providing new dentures, we also work closely with hospital staff to raise awareness about the importance of denture care during a patient’s stay. By educating nurses, healthcare assistants, and other hospital staff about the risks of lost dentures and the steps that can be taken to prevent this issue, we aim to reduce the frequency of this common problem.

In summary, lost dentures during a hospital stay are a significant issue that can impact a patient's health and wellbeing. At the Clinic for Implant & Orthodontic Dentistry, we are committed to providing prompt and effective solutions through our mobile dental service, ensuring that patients can quickly regain their comfort and dignity. If you or a loved one has lost dentures during a hospital stay, please contact us for assistance. Our team is here to help, providing the care and support needed to restore your smile.

A budget alternative to fixed full jaw implant prosthesis is a snap on denture (overdenture) starting from £2500. By Dr Amir Mostofi DDS, Dip. , MSc.

A budget alternative to fixed full jaw implant prosthesis is a Snap-on denture (overdenture) starting from £2500.By Dr Amir Mostofi DDS, Dip. ,MSc.

Here, I would like to explain about a cheaper alternative that our practice, Clinic for Implant and orthodontic dentistry is providing. A budget alternative to fixed full jaw implant prosthesis is a snap on denture (overdenture) whith the cost starting from £2500 in UK (at the time of writting). Some patients would like to have a full jaw implant restored fixed prosthetics. However, the cost of such treatment is beyond their reach. The cost of fixed dental implants for a full jaw restoration can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of implants needed and the experience level of the surgeon. However, on average, a fixed full jaw restoration with fixed dental implants can cost between £12000 to £25000 in UK. A practical alternative is option of overdenture (snap on denture). The cost of Snap-on dentures for a full jaw restoration is typically less expensive. The cost can vary depending on the number of dental implants needed and the materials used for the denture. However, on average, the cost for a full jaw restoration with a Snap-On denture can range from £2500 to £12000 in United Kingdom. This cost is more affordable for many patients.

Snap-on dentures, also known as overdentures, are a type of denture that snaps onto a small number of dental implants in the jaw bone. This type of denture offers a number of benefits over traditional dentures, which rest on the gums and are held in place by suction or adhesives.

One of the main benefits of snap-on dentures is improved stability and retention. Traditional dentures can slip and move around in the mouth, causing discomfort and making it difficult to speak and eat. Snap-on dentures, on the other hand, are securely attached to the dental implants, which anchor them firmly in place. This means that snap-on dentures do not slip or move around in the mouth, which greatly improves the ability to speak and eat.

Another benefit of snap-on dentures is that they provide a more natural-feeling bite. Traditional dentures can change the way the jaw and teeth align, which can cause discomfort and even jaw pain. Snap-on dentures, however, are anchored to the jaw bone, which helps to maintain the natural alignment of the jaw and teeth. This can help to reduce discomfort and jaw pain.

Another benefits of snap-on dentures is that they do not require adhesives to hold them in place. Traditional dentures rely on adhesives to keep them in place, which can be messy and unpleasant to use. Snap-on dentures, on the other hand, are anchored to the jaw bone and do not require adhesives to stay in place. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to wear.

In addition, snap-on dentures can help to preserve the jaw bone. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and rely on suction to stay in place. Over time, this can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which can cause the dentures to fit poorly and make the face appear sunken. Snap-on dentures, however, are anchored to the jaw bone and help to preserve bone and maintain a more youthful appearance. Snap-on dentures, also known as overdentures, are a more cost-effective option for full jaw restoration compared to fixed dental implants. While both options can provide a secure and stable solution for missing teeth, the cost of fixed dental implants can be significantly higher.

Another factor to consider is the maintenance costs. Fixed dental implants require regular check-ups and cleaning like natural teeth, but snap-on dentures are easy to clean and maintain, which can save patients on additional costs in the long run.

It's worth noting that the final cost of the treatment will depend on the individual case, and it's important to consult with a dental professional to get an accurate estimate of the cost. In conclusion, Snap-On dentures offer a number of benefits over traditional dentures, including improved stability and retention, a more natural-feeling bite, greater durability, no need for adhesives, preservation of jaw bone, more budget friendly and easy to clean. While they may require more upfront costs, snap-on dentures are a more secure, durable, and comfortable option for those in need of dentures.

When not to have full jaw implants?- By Dr Amir Mostofi DDS, Dip. MSc

The reasons that follow are the most common, however each case should be considered by a qualified implant dentist.

• Heavy smokers.
• Patients with severe bruxism (grinding teeth).
• Individuals taking bone loss prohibitory medications (like bisphosphonates for osteoporosis).
• Patients unable to perform routine brushing procedure.
• Patients with severe and long term systemic illness like diabetes, which might affect the healing following surgery.
• Radiation (to the jaws) & chemo therapy.
• Patients with cognitive decline (memory, speech, motoric, judgment and thinking).
• Very advanced age.
• Bleeding disorders.
• Bone disease.
• Severe psychiatric disorder.