What Are Partial Dentures?

If you’re missing a few teeth but have healthy, natural teeth that can be saved, Partial Dentures may be the solution for you. Partial dentures are affordable and provide a functional replacement for missing teeth, and they can be an excellent alternative to bridges or dental implants. However, a dental specialist can advise you on the best tooth-replacement option for your unique needs and goals.

Partial dentures are a removable dental appliance that replaces one or more missing teeth. They help you chew more efficiently, improve your speech clarity, and prevent your existing teeth from shifting position in your mouth (an effect called occlusion). They also maintain the shape of your jawline and facial structure.

To create a partial, your dentist or prosthodontist will take impressions of your jaw and the surrounding teeth. Then they will construct a model, wax form or plastic pattern on which the artificial teeth will be set up, according to your specific requirements. You can “try in” this model several times to ensure comfort and a good fit.

The base of the removable partial is made of acrylic or metal. The metal bases are usually lighter and more durable than the plastic ones. They can be more expensive as well, depending on the material. However, a 2017 research review suggests that titanium can cause inflammatory reactions in some patients.

Your dentist or prosthodontist can also make a flexible partial denture from a more malleable material known as Valplast. This can be more comfortable for some people, especially if they have an acrylic allergy. However, it’s not as sturdy as the acrylic or cast metal dentures, and they tend to be bulkier, so they might feel a little more awkward in the mouth than traditional partials.

You can choose from a variety of clasps to anchor the partial in place. These are usually gum-colored and blend in well with existing natural teeth. These clasps might be visible when you smile, or they may hide behind the remaining natural teeth when you’re speaking or laughing.

Another type of fixed partial denture is a dental implant-supported partial denture that uses one or more dental implants to anchor the appliance. This can give you a more stable bite, and it helps to avoid the bone loss that can occur in the gap where your tooth is missing. However, you won’t be able to remove your fixed partial denture at night, and it will need periodic attention to keep it clean and in good condition. This is because your natural teeth will shift slightly over time, and these adjustments might affect the fit of your partial denture. That’s why it’s important to see your dentist or prosthodontist regularly for check-ups and cleaning.