Procedure for Partial Dentures

A partial denture is used to replace one or more teeth. These appliances can improve a person's physical appearance. By filling in spaces where teeth are missing, partial dentures can prevent other teeth from shifting. Partial dentures also allow you to chew better. Although some partial dentures are removable, others are worn permanently. Being fitted for a partial denture requires several visits to the dentist's office to ensure a proper fit.

Flippers

• Flippers are partial dentures that replace missing teeth, leaving spaces for the natural teeth in between. Wire loops are attached to hold the denture in place. Although a flipper may not look as natural as other dentures, they are a less expensive alternative for replacing missing teeth. New teeth can also be added to the denture quickly if a person loses more teeth to tooth decay or periodontal disease. One disadvantage is that the irregular shape causes these partial dentures to break easily.

Fit

• A removable partial denture is designed to rest on the gums or palate. Metal clasps hold the denture in place by clipping onto the adjacent natural teeth. The design of the denture is important to prevent plaque formation, particularly where the denture and natural teeth come together. Proper fit also prevents food from lodging under the denture or between the denture and natural teeth. Sometimes, the natural teeth to which the denture is clasped must be crowned so that the denture can be attached more securely.

Impressions

• A dentist takes impressions of the upper and lower jaw so that a dental technician can make plaster casts. The technician then positions the artificial teeth into a wax denture that is placed in the patient's mouth. Any adjustments are made before the base of the finished denture is made from acrylic or metal. The wax gums of the denture are then replaced with pink acrylic to resemble the natural gum.

Follow-up

• Because the shape of the mouth changes as people get older, periodic follow-up appointments are necessary so that a dentist can check the fit of the denture. If a partial denture has shifted in position or the gums recede, an adjustment may be necessary because this can cause dentures to become loose. Loose-fitting dentures often cause sores in the mouth that can lead to infection.

Bridges

• Bridges are designed to remain permanently in place. A bridge is a false tooth that fills a gap where a tooth is missing. Anchored to the natural teeth with metal bands, the dentist then applies resin or cement to hold the false tooth in place. Proper fitting is necessary not only for the patient's comfort, but because a poorly fitted bridge can damage a person's jaw, gums or remaining teeth. It usually takes at least two visits for a dentist to fit and adjust a bridge. Similar to the process for fitting partial dentures, the dentist takes an impression of your teeth.

Prevention

• The American Dental Association stresses the importance of cleaning the natural teeth to which a denture's metal clasps are attached. If teeth are not properly cleaned, plaque can build up under the clasps. This increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.