Partial Dentures

An partial denture can be a good way to replace missing teeth. When you save your remaining teeth and have a partial denture, you'll chew better, look better, and have a healthier mouth. A typical upper partial denture is held in place by metal clasps that fit around the anchor teeth.

Advantages of a partial denture
A partial denture prevents several problems. By filling in spaces, it prevents neighboring teeth from shifting. If missing teeth aren't replaced, it can set off a chain reaction that can result in cavities and periodontal disease. It also helps balance your bite. This means you'll chew better and have a healthier jaw joint. Partials also add support to your cheeks and lips. This support is necessary to speak clearly and look your best.

The Process
The process of making an upper partial denture involves a series of appointments. Though the process varies in each individual case, it usually involves minor shaping of the teeth followed by impressions. Models are made from the impressions and it's on the models that the partial framework and final partial denture are fabricated in a dental laboratory. After several try-ins and adjustments, the partial denture is seated.

Adjusting to your partial denture
Some temporary problems are a normal part of adjusting to a new upper partial denture. At first, it may tip when you chew. You may notice increased salivary flow. It may seem bulky. You may gag a little. Your tongue will feel crowded, and you may have difficulty speaking. But don't worry; as you get used to your new partial these problems will go away. With time and practice, you'll make the adjustment and be eating with confidence.

Alternatives to Partial Dentures

When you've lost one or more teeth, you have several alternatives to partial dentures:

Bridges
Implants
Full dentures
Delaying treatment

In some cases, bridges are an alternative to partial dentures. A dental bridge is attached to the teeth next to the space, and those teeth hold the bridge in place and provide support.

Implants

Sometimes, when we don't have enough teeth to place a bridge or when we don't want to reduce adjacent teeth, we can solve the problem by placing an implant. A dental implant is a small titanium cylinder that's surgically inserted into the bone of the jaw to replace the root of a missing tooth. Then a crown, bridge, or denture can be attached to the implant. To learn more about dental implants, please visit our dental implants page.

Full dentures

Removing the rest of your teeth and making a full denture might also be an alternative.

Delaying treatment

If you still have your teeth and you're not in a lot of pain, you might decide to leave your teeth as they are, at least for now. But if you have infected teeth and gums, delaying treatment can be a risky alternative. Infected teeth and gums never heal on their own. They'll just keep getting worse. Infections of the teeth and gums can lead to further tooth loss and can drag down your body's immune system, affecting your entire body.

Sometimes when you're missing teeth, a partial denture is simply the best alternative to fill in spaces and keep you chewing effectively. There are several kinds of partial dentures, and we can work with you to choose the right one for your situation.

Please call Smile Plus Cosmetic Dentistry to make appointment or if have any questions and needs more details regarding partial or full dentures.