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Instructions for Removable Partial Dentures

A beautiful healthy smile is often considered key to making a winning first impression. Unfortunately, due to hereditary, accidents or age, some people are either missing teeth or exhibit enamel in such a state of disrepair that they desire to have gaps corrected or replacement teeth custom made-to-order. A removable partial denture (RPD) is currently the most inexpensive method to fix a dysfunctional or unrefined grin.

  1. Materials in Removable Partial Dentures

    • A removable partial denture is, essentially, a prosthesis that you can remove, reinsert, and maintain on a daily basis. It is designed to rest on the gum line and/or palate, and it is distinguished by tiny "clips" or "connectors" in the form of metal or plastic that attach to existing teeth. The base most commonly consists of an acrylic or metal material, and the artificial teeth are acrylic or porcelain. According to the American Dental Association, many dentists claim that removable partial dentures are more sound, steady, and retentive than other denture appliances. Most patients also claim that these dentures have dramatically enhanced their appearance.

    Choosing RPDs

    • There are several reasons to chose removable partial dentures. Benefits range from providing a more pleasurable dining experience to reconstructing natural contours of the lips, cheeks, and face to circumventing the development of premature wrinkles around the mouth. In addition, an RPD can prevent teeth from shifting, as well as potential gum irritation or disease caused by food lodging into the narrow spaces created by shifting teeth. It also may counteract potential jaw joint issues by helping to maintain the proper relationship between upper and lower jaws.

      An RPD can either alter speech negatively or positively. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it can be difficult to speak clearly when teeth are missing, and a partial denture may help. A partial, however, particularly when it hasn't been well-designed or adjusted successfully, can also impair the pronunciation of certain letters or words. Shrinkage of the dentures is often considered to be one of the major drawbacks according to MIT's Dental Service. As you age, your mouth changes, and this change may effect the fit of the denture, which may, in turn, cause infections or sores. Evaluations and adjustments by a professional are necessary in the life span of a RPD.

    Cost and Care Instructions

    • Partial dentures, in general, cost anywhere from $500 to $1,300. Insurance coverage, the location of the professional you choose, and the types of material he elects are all factors that determine the cost.

      Partials should be gently brushed every day over a soft cloth or a basin of cold water with denture cleansers with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. It is recommended that a special brush be used, however a soft-bristled, regular toothbrush may also be used. In the evening, the denture should be soaked in water or denture solution as it could warp if it isn't kept moist. If the partial has metal attachments, it could tarnish if placed in a soaking solution, so ask your dentist to suggest the best method.

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