What are partial dentures?

Partial dentures are a device used to replace multiple missing teeth in a row. They consist of false teeth attached to a metal frame or plastic base. The base is fitted with connector that allows it to snap into place over remaining teeth.

How are partial dentures constructed?

Partial dentures are made after an impression is taken of the mouth. This impression contains the final shape of the teeth. The impression is also used to create models of your jaw, which are used as a template to help shape your partial dentures. Before your partial dentures are created, your dentist may create a mold of your mouth. This mold is used to create “try-in” models. After the models are finished, your dentist will determine the proper size, shape, and color for your partial dentures.

What are partial dentures made of?

Partial dentures can be made from a variety of different tooth replacement materials. Most partial dentures are made from a resin-based material. This material can be tinted to match your unique tooth color for a seamless look. It can also be altered to be flexible and able to bend with your mouth for a comfortable, natural fit.

What are the advantages of partial dentures?

Partial dentures are removable and keep the remaining teeth from shifting. When you have missing teeth, the remaining teeth can move out of place. This can cause alignment issues, crookedness, and uneven wear on your remaining teeth.

Gaps in your smile can also cause your other teeth to shift out of place, which can make issues worse. A partial denture helps to fill your smile by preventing these shifts from happening.

What are the disadvantages of partial dentures?

Dental partials share many of the advantages and disadvantages associated with all other types of dentures. The biggest disadvantage of partial dentures is that they do require an adhesive, and, just like full dentures, they can slip out of place. They can also be more difficult to clean, as they require more surface area to clean than natural teeth do.

In addition, partial dentures can be more expensive than other denture types. They are customized specifically for your mouth, so they cost more to make than other types of dentures.

How do I take care of partial dentures?

Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. They require the same daily care as natural teeth.

You must clean your partials daily, just as you clean natural teeth. Use a soft bristled brush to gently brush the appliance, making sure to clean under the clasps. Partials may have metal clasps that can retain plaque and bacteria, so be sure to clean the clasps carefully.

Be sure to soak your partials daily. Use a specialized denture cleaner to soak your partials. Never use hot water, as this can cause your partial to warp. Use a denture brush to gently scrub your partials, then rinse the appliance thoroughly with water.

Be sure to clean your gums and tongue daily. Plaque and bacteria can collect on your gums, which can lead to gum disease. Food particles can collect on the tongue, leading to bad breath.

When do partial dentures need to be replaced?

While some patients can get years out of their partial dentures, others find that their partial dentures need to be replaced every 5-10 years. The condition of the denture itself and the health of the patient are both factors in how long a partial denture will last.

Because partial dentures require removing some of the natural tooth structure, and because the mouth is constantly changing, the partial denture may need replacement if the fit of the denture starts to change.