Collingwood, ON – Hearing that dentures are needed can be an emotional experience, according to Jim Harrison, a denturist with more than 30 years of experience at Harrison Denture Clinic. “For many, being told it’s time to get dentures can be traumatic,” he says.
Dentures often follow years of dental challenges—broken teeth, failed root canals, or past trauma. Harrison notes, “Patients share stories of radiation treatments, infections, or accidents. Many fear they won’t look like themselves anymore.”
For some, however, dentures provide relief, offering an alternative to costly and painful attempts to save teeth that cannot be preserved.
Harrison begins every consultation by listening. He carefully learns each patient’s history, concerns, and expectations. “It’s about helping them regain a piece of themselves lost to embarrassment over time,” he explains.
Patients receive a thorough examination, detailed explanation of procedures, timelines, and costs, and are shown before-and-after photos to set realistic expectations. Harrison emphasizes that understanding the process helps turn fear into relief.
At Harrison Denture Clinic, dentures are customized for natural appearance and comfort. The process begins with precise impressions, followed by wax molds and a try-in to ensure teeth size, shape, and color are ideal. Even gums and palate are sculpted for realism.
For patients needing extractions, “surgical dentures” are prepared in advance. Harrison works chairside with dentists to fit dentures immediately after teeth removal. “Patients go from hiding their smile to having a natural, confident look,” he says.
Many patients are younger adults whose dental histories reflect financial hardships. “I meet young mothers and elderly patients who lost teeth early due to cost,” Harrison notes. Programs like the Canadian Dental Care Plan help make dentures affordable for low-income individuals.
Harrison recalls a young man who avoided smiling due to damaged teeth. After receiving dentures, his confidence improved, leading to career advancement and personal milestones, including marriage. Harrison says, “Restoring a smile restores dignity, and that transformation is profoundly rewarding.”
He advises patients to preserve their natural teeth whenever possible. “But if dentures are necessary, don’t worry. Find a practitioner you trust, and know that we’ve got you covered.”