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Partial Dentures Information

Partial dentures are replacements for missing natural teeth. Unlike complete dentures, the remaining natural teeth do not have to be removed to insert partial dentures. You can obtain permanent or removable partial dentures. In addition, partial dentures can be completed for you in approximately four weeks, compared to months for full dentures.

  1. Permanent

    • Permanent partial dentures are also referred to as dental implants. Surgery is required for these partial dentures. Dentists insert a metal post into the jaw bone. After six to 12 weeks, the implant and bone are fused, or healed, and an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment is a small post that will hold the replacement tooth or teeth. Dentists make an impression, or model, of the teeth. This is to ensure they install the correct type and arrangement of implants for your mouth. Your dentist will make a crown, or replacement tooth, from this model. Dentists place the replacement tooth onto the abutment.

    Advantages of Dental Implants

    • Dental implants are permanent and are styled to resemble your natural teeth. You do not have to worry about removable dentures slipping. Since dental implants are fused into the bone, there is no way the implant will fall out or slip. Dental implants do not require adhesive powder or creams to keep them in place. According to webmd.com, there is a 98-percent success rate for dental implant patients.

    Removable

    • Removable partial dentures are for people who only missing one or a few teeth. These partial dentures are made of plastic teeth and pink plastic that resemble gum tissue, all affixed to a metal framework. On each end are metal clasps that attach onto the natural teeth.

      Precision partial dentures are a variation of removable partial dentures that are held in place by internal clasps.

    Advantages of Removable Partials

    • You can easily take removable partial dentures out of your mouth, if necessary, so you can chew with ease. With precision partial dentures, no clasps show so they look more natural. In addition, precision partial dentures can distribute pressure evenly (to the natural teeth) when you chew. If you lose another tooth in the same area, dentists can add another tooth to your existing set of removable partial dentures.

    Considerations

    • Removable partials aren't as aesthetic as dental implants, since the metal clasps can be seen. Precision partial dentures are less visible than removable partials, but they are difficult to adjust. Dental implants may be a better option for some people, but there can be swelling and pain after surgery, so you will have to eat soft foods.

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