More Information on Partial Dentures

Whether it is due to poor oral hygiene, a byproduct of aging, gum disease or trauma, people lose their teeth at any age. Some people lose all of their teeth and need them replaced with full dentures, while others lose a portion of their teeth, but still have enough healthy teeth that full dentures are not the best replacement option. When this is the case, partial dentures may be
the best solution.

What Are Dentures?

Before understanding what partial dentures are, it’s good to have an understanding of what dentures are. Dentures are a form of tooth replacement involving the fabrication of a set of false teeth. These teeth are meant as a full replacement for missing teeth, and not a repair for damaged teeth.

What Are Partial Dentures?

When a patient has a good portion of their teeth missing, they should consider having those teeth replaced. A dental bridge or dental implants may be a good choice for patients with a few missing teeth, for patients with a significant number of missing teeth, partial dentures may be the right choice. A partial denture is a prosthetic that is made to replace a significant portion of teeth. Unlike full dentures, partial dentures are held in place using a metal framework. This makes them more secure—even though they are still removable.

Why Partial Dentures?

There are a variety of benefits to partial dentures. One of the most obvious benefits is cosmetic appearance. These prosthetics can be made to closely resemble a patient’s natural teeth. Because of this, a patient can feel comfortable speaking and smiling without feeling self-conscious.

Partial dentures are also excellent for functional reasons. Because they are held in place with the patient’s own remaining teeth, patients find that they are able to bite and chew much easier than when they had missing teeth. Partial dentures can also be easier than full dentures to bite down and chew with.

Proper Care

It is extremely important to continue to take care of your healthy teeth when you have partial dentures placed, and to take care of the dentures as well. This means brushing, flossing and rinsing at least twice a day. It also means regular visits to the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. You’ll want to make sure that your healthy teeth stay healthy, and that your dentures stay in good shape. You’ll also want to keep your dentures clean by removing them and cleaning them with mild soap.

Speak with Your Dentist

Partial dentures are an excellent option for patients with a reasonable amount of healthy teeth still remaining, but they aren’t always the best choice. Make sure to speak with your dentist about what replacement options are available to you, and whether or not you can have partial dentures placed. If so, they will be able to answer any questions, and walk you through the process of having partial dentures placed.

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