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. The muscles and bones react to the gap and possible change in bite position, creating pain and stress on the jaw, neck and head region. In addition, when teeth are missing it can compromise chewing efficiency, and result in changes in eating habits and other food related ailments.

The existing healthy teeth are used to anchor the partial denture.

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.

Patients can choose from a variety of materials for their dentures depending on the desired result and the expenses involved. Polymer dentures, for example, resemble natural teeth much more closely and have a greater degree of sturdiness compared to traditional plastic dentures. These are the reasons so many people will opt to pay the higher cost for polymer dentures. Some dentures require the use of various metals to make them fit better, and this too will increase the cost.

Looking after partial dentures is no different than full dentures, and should be combined with the regular oral hygiene regimen.People using partial dentures should take them out and brush them when they brush their teeth after a meal. This is done to remove food particles from the denture that could possibly irritate the gums. Additionally, for safety’s sake and in order to maintain the health of the mouth, partial dentures must be removed at night. This allows saliva to coat the gums and lining of the mouth and balance out any bacteria, and for the partial denture to be soaked in an antibacterial cleansing solution.

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.