A Guide to Partial Dentures

Just because you lost a tooth or teeth doesn’t mean that you have to live the rest of your life with a gap in your mouth. Besides affecting your appearance, a missing tooth can alter the way you eat and speak. Even worse, it can lead to jawbone loss.

For these reasons, it’s important to get a tooth replacement as soon as possible after tooth extraction. While you have several dental prostheses to choose from, you may want to consider partial dentures. A partial denture is one of the most common and cost-effective prostheses for teeth loss.

What are Partial Dentures?

Also known as partials, partial dentures are artificial teeth that replace one or a few lost teeth. Unlike full dentures that restore an entire set of missing teeth, partial dentures only replace a specific number of teeth, either in the upper or lower jaw.

Partial dentures are removable and are usually crafted from a combination of acrylic and metal. These materials give the dentures a natural-tooth appearance and functionality, allowing you to chew and speak naturally.

Who Needs Partial Dentures?

You may need partial dentures if you’ve lost teeth due to any of the following reasons:

• Severe tooth decay.
• Severe tooth infection.
• Periodontal disease, an advanced gum disease.
• A facial or jaw injury.
• An injury or accident.

If you’re considering partial dentures, you should consult with your dentist first. The dentist will perform an exam of your dental health and recommend the best treatment option. If you’re eligible for partial dentures, the dentist will prepare you for the procedure.

Benefits of Partial Dentures

Here are the benefits of getting a partial denture:

1. Prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting

After tooth extraction, the adjacent teeth may begin to move or shift to compensate for the gap in your bite. This can weaken your teeth and lead to subsequent problems.

Partial dentures will protect your remaining teeth, preventing them from moving, weakening, and getting overused, which could cause wear and damage.

2. Prevents jawbone deterioration

If you have a missing tooth in your mouth, it may lead to the shrinking of the bone tissues in the supporting jawbone. Getting an implant-supported partial denture ensures that your underlying dental structure – jawbone, gums, teeth, and facial muscles – remains active and healthy.

3. Convenient and easy to use

While it might feel awkward at first, partial dentures are easy to use and get used to. Besides, you can remove or adjust your partial dentures if you need to. After some time, you’ll find it easy and comfortable to speak and eat with them.

4. Long-lasting

If well fitted and cared for, partial dentures can last a long time. The durability will depend on the material of the denture and maintenance. A well-maintained cast metal partial denture can last for up to 50 years.

Cons of Partial Dentures

• They can cause trauma to the surrounding structures such as teeth and gums.
• They must be removed at night.
• They can lead to increased tooth decay if cleaning is neglected.
• They can slip when eating or speaking.
• You need time to get used to having them in your mouth.

How to Care for Partial Dentures

Caring for partial dentures is easy and straightforward. Use the following tips:

• Practice proper oral hygiene.
• Always remove your partial dentures before going to bed. Clean and soak them using denture cleaning tablets.
• Avoid using abrasive materials to clean the dentures. It can weaken and damage them.
• Always brush your natural teeth before wearing the dentures.
• Always store your dentures in a clean and safe place to prevent bacteria build-up and breakage.
• Do not bite the dentures as it can stress the clasps, causing breakage.
• Always brush and floss after eating sugary foods. Partial dentures can increase the risk of tooth decay.
• See your dentist immediately if your dentures get damaged.
• Schedule regular dentist visits for examination and professional cleaning.
• Eat healthy foods and stay hydrated.
• Avoid smoking and drinking colored drinks immediately after the procedure to prevent staining the dentures.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you’re considering partials and dentures in Marshfield, MA, or are just curious whether partial dentures are the right treatment for you, call Beautiful South Shore Smiles to schedule your consultation today.