Partial dentures are dentures made to replace a number of missing teeth, but not the whole plate. They are also known as removable prostheses (removable false teeth additions). They are held in place of the missing teeth by some type of clasps (hooks) or through a precision device (attachment).
Partial dentures are categorized into two. There are Fixed and Removable Dentures. The health of your teeth surrounding the gap is one of the most basic factors in determining the type of denture that can be prescribed for you by a dental practitioner.
Fixed Partial Dentures
They are also known as bridges or crowns or dental implant bridges. They permanently attach artificial teeth directly to the jaw with a dental crown or under the gum tissue with dental implants.
Removable Partial Dentures
They can also be called removable dental bridges. A removable partial denture fills in the gap between two healthy teeth and consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum coloured plastic base. They are normally connected by a metal or resin framework that ensures they are strong enough to undertake the chewing forces and also that they are kept in their proper place.
Partial dentures are fabricated for replacing one or more natural teeth and they are very popular alternatives for those who do not wish to have dental implants or a dental bridge.
How are Partial Dentures made?
The initial step of making a partial denture treatment is the preparation of the teeth. During this period, your dental practitioner should be able to prepare the teeth that the partial denture will use for the support. In the next phase, the dental practitioner will take an accurate impression of the upper and lower arches of your mouth and do the records. This impression is then worked on and a result is developed. After the final satisfactory fit and appearance are achieved, the denture is sent back to the lab and the final fabrication takes place.
Removable partial dentures normally have replacement teeth fixed to an acrylic base that simply matches the colour of your gums. The acrylic base can usually cover a metal framework. Partial dentures may have some type of clasp that attaches to the natural teeth. This helps to hold the denture in place.
Partial dentures are really important for anyone who does not wish to have dental implants or a dental bridge. They are removable and are held in place by the natural teeth or with clasps that easily fit around the existing teeth. Precision attachments may also be used to secure partial dentures, where the denture will clip onto an attachment connected to a crown or bridge. Partial dentures are mostly made out of acrylic but their base may at tomes be strengthened with metal.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
Whether you and your dental practitioner decide on a fixed or removable partial denture, partial dentures clearly offer significant benefits to a patient that is in need. Some of these benefits include;
- They make is possible and easier for one to speak and chew without any difficulties because they take over from the missing teeth. This has a significant impact.
- They maintain the shape of your face.
- Periodontal diseases are very rampant when you have issues with your teeth and gum and therefore rectifying the issues helps greatly in reducing them.
- They prevent teeth from easily shifting in your mouth.
- They also ease the stress that comes in the jaws when you have dental problems.
Are Partial Dentures the best option for me?
Depending on your needs, your dental practitioner will simply choose to come up with a partial denture made from a metal framework of clasps or precision attachments connecting the plate to your natural teeth.
Your dental practitioner can at times recommend crowns or caps to cover some of your teeth. They are important and significantly improve the way a removal partial denture fits into your mouth. Simply ask your dental practitioner what is ideal for you and he will recommend it.
In addition, partial dentures are easy to adjust and repair while at the same time coming at a pocket friendly price compared to some of these alternatives. In whatever you decide to do, have the opinion of a trusted and respectable dental practitioner first, so that you can have a valid opinion which can be enough to help you choose the right option.
Your dental practitioner will simply instruct you on how often you need to have a visit. Keeping up with regular exams and professional care is very important because it will keep your healthy smile on for a long time.