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South Bank Denture Clinic sees Warren grinning
For Warren Marshall, a trip to Brisbane usually means catching up with family - but recently, it’s also meant getting his smile back.
Warren travelled to TAFE Queensland’s South Bank Denture Clinic from the Sunshine Coast after hearing about it from his daughter, who works in the same building as the clinic.
She’d told him about the student-run clinic, where locals can access affordable, high-quality dentures crafted by dental prosthetics students under professional supervision.
“When she told me the students were fantastic to deal with - professional and friendly, I thought it sounded great. So, I decided to come down and see for myself,” he explained.
As someone who works at a teaching hospital on the Sunshine Coast, Warren immediately connected with the clinic’s purpose.
“I work at the university hospital up on the Sunny Coast, and we have students coming through all the time,” he said.
“It’s a fantastic concept - giving them real experience while helping members of the community at the same time.”
The South Bank Denture Clinic offers excellent value for patients like Warren needing removable dentures.
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 denture work begins.
Each appointment is delivered under the watchful eye of qualified senior dental prosthetic teachers. These students design, create, and fit dentures for real clients from the community.
Warren said cost wasn’t his deciding factor, but was undoubtedly a bonus.
“A plate like mine can cost up to $1,400, but here, it was free. You can’t argue with that. It’s savings all around - and you’re helping students learn.”
Warren said the process - from first appointment to final fitting - was handled with the same professionalism he’d expect from any dental clinic.
“Everyone I dealt with here was professional and empathetic. From the reception desk to the students and the teachers, they know what they’re doing and care about getting it right.”
Not knowing what to expect from a denture clinic at a TAFE Queensland campus, Warren said the facilities also exceeded his expectations.
“When I walked in, I was genuinely surprised. I don’t know what I was expecting - maybe something smaller or less modern - but this place is spot on. Everything’s up to date and really impressive.”
Despite living on the Sunshine Coast, Warren said the train ride to Brisbane was well worth it.
“I’ve come down a few times now for my appointments, and the results speak for themselves. My new plate’s brilliant. I’ve had it for a week now and it’s going well.”
He said he’d encourage anyone needing dentures to try the clinic, not just for the cost savings.
“Anyone needing dentures should consider the South Bank Denture Clinic. Even if you can afford to go elsewhere, consider coming here and helping the students gain valuable experience. You can’t lose, and it’s been a wonderful all-around experience.”
For Warren, the South Bank Denture Clinic offered more than just new teeth - it gave him the satisfaction of knowing he’d played a part in helping the next generation of dental professionals succeed.
“I’d recommend it to anyone. You receive great care, save money, and help students learn. That’s a win for everyone,” Warren concluded.