Partial dentures can help fill in the gaps left by missing teeth. This can improve your smile, reduce the likelihood of temporomandibular joint TMJ problems and discomfort, and lower the risk of additional tooth loss. A partial denture can also preserve your healthy surrounding natural teeth and can prevent them from shifting into the gap caused by a missing tooth.
Many people choose to get a partial denture rather than a dental bridge because they want to keep as much of their own natural teeth as possible. In addition, a bridge requires the removal of healthy adjacent teeth in order to place it, which can be difficult for some patients to tolerate.
The benefits of getting a Partial Dentures include preventing the surrounding teeth from moving into the gap and providing more stability when eating and speaking. It can also help restore the bite and make it easier to chew food. In addition, a partial denture can help boost self-esteem and improve your appearance by eliminating the “gap” in your smile.
There are several different types of partial dentures available, each with its own unique pros and cons. Some of these dentures are removable and can be taken out for cleaning or at night, while others are permanently anchored in the mouth using metal clasps. The type of partial denture you choose depends on the amount of stability you need and your budget.
Removable partial dentures can be easily taken out for cleaning or at night, and are typically made of an acrylic base with replacement teeth attached to it. This type of denture is very cost effective and can be made to look more realistic by combining the base with a pink gum-colored material that mimics the color of real gum tissue. The disadvantage of this type of partial is that it may require an adaptation period to get used to wearing and removing it frequently.
A flexible partial denture is made of a more malleable and soft material that allows it to fit better in the mouth and feel more comfortable. This is especially true for individuals with thin gums who might find a more rigid partial uncomfortable. This type of partial can be a good option for those who need to replace only one or two teeth, or for those who have a smaller mouth that might not accommodate a more rigid partial.
Metal-rimmed partials are usually created from a chrome cobalt or titanium alloy. This makes them stronger and more durable than other denture types. However, the metal can sometimes irritate the gums of those with sensitive gums or a small mouth. It can also be more expensive than other types of partials.
Another option is a hybrid partial, which combines the best of all worlds. It features a Titanium or Wironium framework with Acetal Resin clasps or Valplast elements in areas where hiding unsightly metal is critical. This type of removable partial is made for each individual patient and can be costly, but it provides the best combination of strength, durability, and aesthetics that we have seen to date.