Understanding Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are often considered as a course of treatment for those patients looking to replace only a few missing teeth.

But, why do lost teeth need replacement? As we grow and develop permanent teeth, the bones and muscles of our jaws, head and neck grow to accommodate them. When a tooth is lost, the resulting gap changes the bite pattern, the way we chew food and the way our teeth connect when at rest. This can cause the surrounding bones and muscles to respond, resulting in discomfort or stress in the jaw, head and neck. In addition, when teeth are missing it can compromise chewing efficiency, and result in changes in eating habits and other food related ailments.

Partial dentures are created to fit around remaining healthy teeth. Partial dentures can be taken out for cleaning, and are fitted to the real teeth via a metal or plastic anchor to keep them in place.

Partial dentures are created from a mold of the existing teeth, gum and jawlines where they will sit. Once the dentures are prepared from the material chosen, the dentist will fit them into position so long as the area is free from swelling or tenderness. Temporary dentures may sometimes be recommended for six to twelve weeks, if the area has undergone recent extraction or inflammation to allow the area to heal sufficiently.

Dentures are prepared from a variety of materials and the preferred material is chosen based on the desired outcome. Polymer dentures are more natural looking and more sturdy than the more common plastic ones. These are the reasons so many people will opt to pay the higher cost for polymer dentures.

Looking after partial dentures is no different than full dentures, and should be combined with the regular oral hygiene regimen.Partial dentures should be taken out and brushed after each meal along with the original teeth. This is done to remove food particles from the denture that could possibly irritate the gums. The dentures should also be taken out at night to ensure safety and to maintain good oral hygiene.

Users of partial dentures will be required to pay periodic visits to a dental professional to keep tabs on the health of their gums and to have routine maintenance work done on their dentures, if necessary.