Roger Oliver is The Denture Man. He has more than 33 years’ dentistry experience and has loved every minute of it. Dentures are his passion. Here, he answers commonly-asked questions about the world of dentures.
How would you describe dentures?
Dentures are prosthetic devices which replace missing teeth and are therefore often required by people from many walks of life. They can be made of acrylic, nylon or metal, which is fitted over the gums to improve chewing and enhance aesthetics.
Aren’t all dentures pretty much the same?
All dentures are not created equally. Each individual has different needs. That’s why we design and create our own exceptional range of dentures, catering to each patient’s unique requirements.
What are partial dentures?
Full dentures replace both upper and lower arches, whereas partial dentures replace the missing teeth
with some natural teeth remaining.
What are immediate dentures and are they suitable for everyone?
Immediate dentures are an option for having your teeth fitted on the day you have extractions. These
are made before extractions, ensuring you won’t be walking around toothless.
What does denture relining mean?
Relines secure a tighter fit for loose-fitting dentures. We provide a same-day treatment for this service.
Where are your dentures made?
All our dentures are designed and fitted in house for our patients' convenience.
Typically, how long does it take to adjust to dentures?
Depending on tissue sensitivity, dentures usually settle within several days, allowing you to feel comfortable with them in. In some cases, patients may require some adjustments due to some tight-
fitting areas caused by the pressure of new prosthesis. This all forms part of our after care service,
which is included in our treatment. That means you won’t be surprised by hidden costs.
What’s the best strategy to keep our own teeth?
To avoid our service, I recommend a healthy diet, low in sugar. I’d also recommend brushing and
flossing regularly. Check-ups with your dentist to ensure a healthy dentition is also an important
factor to help retain one’s own teeth, so make sure you schedule these regularly.
Do technology advances and digital practices improve what you do?
Technological dental advances allow us to provide a quality product directly to clients in a
short amount of time. That means no more tedious treatment plans. In fact, at The Denture Man,
with certain criteria, we can manufacture and fit dentures on the same day.
If you could be Minister of Health for one day, what would you do first and why?
I would most certainly provide subsidized dental funding for all New Zealanders across all spectrums of society. Oral health is so crucial to having a healthy society.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I’ve been fortunate to have been trained by masters in the field. My initial dental qualifications were obtained at Cape Peninsula University of Technology in South Africa. I then qualified in clinical
dental technology at the University of Otago. Some of my techniques have been passed onto other
clinical dental technology students. I have managed large commercial dental laboratories both in New
Zealand and abroad and have been involved in the training of dentistry students. South magazine asked me about my work.
What activities do you enjoy outside of your profession?
Much of my time is focused on my beautiful wife Natasha and my awesome children, as well as my
beloved German shepherd, Boomer. My other passions include boating, fishing, motorcycling and reading.