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Methods of Attaching Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are man-made devices used to replace natural teeth and help maintain everyday appearance as well as functions such as chewing and speaking. They are commonly available as either long-term devices set in the mouth or devices that can be removed at any time. Methods of attaching partial dentures vary with the individual and the specific type of denture used.

  1. Types of Partial Dentures

    • According to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, your partial dentures may come in one of two basic forms. Removable partial dentures typically consist of a metal framework that holds artificial teeth along with a plastic material designed to mimic the appearance of natural gum tissue. Fixed partial dentures--commonly known as bridges--can be made entirely of porcelain, or of porcelain combined with an underlying metal framework. Generally speaking, bridges look more natural than removable partials, but to use them you must have remaining real teeth in a position to support them properly.

    Attaching Removable Partial Dentures

    • If you have removable partial dentures, they can be attached through a couple of different methods. In some cases, metal clasps at the borders of your dentures are attached to your remaining natural teeth. Depending on your circumstances and your dentist's preference, your partials' clasps may be C-shaped, I-shaped or Y-shaped. In some cases, it may be necessary to alter the shape of your remaining teeth to provide a proper attachment point for your clasps.

      You and your dentist may also choose to secure your removable partials with devices called precision attachments. To make use of these attachments possible, your dentist will first place artificial crowns over the exterior of a couple of your natural teeth. The surfaces of these crowns will contain custom slots, or "keyholes," designed to hold the tabbed ends of your partials' precision attachments. Your dentist will then place these tabs into their slots, creating a tight bond between your partials and your natural teeth. Since there are no clasps visible inside your mouth, precision attachments give your partials a relatively natural appearance.

    Attaching Partial Bridges

    • If you receive a partial bridge, it can be attached in one of two basic ways. If your bridge is bonded into place, your dentist will prepare the surfaces of the natural teeth surrounding your gap, then cement your bridge into place so that it is supported by these teeth. If your bridge is implanted, it will be surgically anchored underneath your gums or directly into the bone of your jaw.

    Additional Considerations

    • If you have missing teeth at the back of your mouth, your dentist may choose to use a device called a Nesbit partial, which uses clasps that only attach to natural teeth on one side of your mouth. In some cases, Nesbit partials may be too unstable for effective use. If this is true for you, your dentist may choose to install a device called a bilateral partial denture, which uses support from both sides of your mouth for extra stability. Consult your dentist for information on these devices, as well as other partial denture alternatives.

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