South Bank Denture Clinic gives Shaun a reason to smile

His niece, who works in administration at TAFE Queensland, had mentioned the student-run clinic to him one day.

She told him that dental prosthetics students were creating real dentures for members of the public under expert supervision - and at a fraction of the usual cost.

“I mentioned to my brother that I had a few missing teeth, and he said he did too. Holly told us about the clinic, and we thought, ‘Why not give it a go?’” explained Shaun.

The South Bank Denture Clinic, tucked inside TAFE Queensland’s South Bank campus, is a modern, fully equipped facility where students learn their craft.

Treatments are provided by second-and third-year Bachelor of Dental Prosthetics (HED004) students under the close supervision of qualified dentists and dental prosthetists.

All new patients must attend a consultation to confirm their suitability before any denture work begins.

Under the watchful eye of qualified senior dental prosthetic teachers, these students design, create, and fit dentures for real clients from the community.

“I had no idea this kind of facility even existed, and I was shocked when I came in,” said Shaun.

“The place is spotless, professional, and everyone is so welcoming. You forget you’re even at a TAFE Queensland campus.”

For Shaun, the experience wasn’t just convenient; it was professional care at an affordable price.

“I’ve probably saved three or four thousand dollars by coming here. A full set of dentures can cost a fortune elsewhere, but it’s under a thousand here. It’s a huge help.”

Beyond the savings, Shaun said the experience felt as professional as any private clinic he’d visited.

“The students are calm and thorough, and their supervisors double-check everything, and it’s really comforting to see how careful they are. You know you’re in good hands.”

Because it’s a teaching clinic, the process can take a little longer, but Shaun said that was never a problem.

“It’s all part of the experience. Sometimes they’ll check something twice or repeat a step, but that’s just part of the learning process, and it means your dentures are done properly.”

After several appointments and his final review, Shaun will walk away with more than just a new smile.

“I’m happy with the result, and after today, I’ll be able to eat without pain or discomfort. That’ll be a big win for a lot less cost.”

Shaun recommends the South Bank Denture Clinic to anyone needing dentures, not just for the quality of the outcome, but also for the satisfaction of supporting tomorrow’s dental prosthetists.

“I highly recommend everyone needing dentures to consider the South Bank Denture Clinic. Not just for the savings, but because you’re helping students learn. One day they’ll be the professionals we all go to, and you can say you helped them get there.”

For Shaun, the experience has been unexpectedly uplifting.

“It’s not just about teeth; it’s about confidence and knowing you’ve helped someone else learn while you’re getting your smile back. That’s pretty special,” Shaun concluded.