What are Partial Dentures? 

Denture technologies have come a long way in a short space of time. Dentists now use processes that mean full and partial dentures fit better, are more comfortable and look almost indistinguishable from your real teeth. For those who are only missing a few teeth, we often recommend partial dentures as an affordable and effective alternative to full dentures or implants. Custom partial dentures fit securely to either your top or bottom jaw, and the denture can replace one or more missing teeth without affecting the real teeth around it. In this article we’ll provide more information on partial dentures to help you decide whether they’re the right option for you.

When are Partial Dentures Recommended? 

Partial dentures are typically recommended for people who have lost several teeth on the top or bottom jaw. Those teeth could be lost for a variety of reasons, including decay, injuries or tooth extractions. In some cases, missing multiple teeth can put strain on the remaining ones, making it more difficult to look after your oral health moving forward. This is where partial dentures are usually recommended. Your dentist will assess the health of your remaining teeth and can design partial dentures that improve not only the appearance of your teeth, but also how well they work for things like chewing and speaking.

Different Types of Partial Dentures

There are several common types of partial dentures. The type your dentist recommends will depend on where the missing teeth are located, how you want the denture to be fitted, your budget and a variety of other factors. 

A skilled dentist will be able to fit you for one of the following types of partial dentures:

• Metal Partial Dentures. Metal dentures use a moulded metal frame to hold the false teeth and fit them to your jaw. They’re lightweight, comfortable, secure and can last for years (or even decades) with proper care. Depending on which teeth are missing, parts of the metal frame may be visible while smiling.

• Acrylic Partial Dentures. Acrylic dentures feature bases manufactured from tough acrylic. They’re cost-effective and usually take less time to manufacture than metal dentures, although the acrylic typically has a shorter lifespan than metal partial dentures.

• Flexible Partial Dentures. Flexible dentures are made from a thin, flexible plastic that is heat mouldable. For people with allergies or sensitivities to metal and acrylic dentures, flexible options are an excellent alternative. Because flexible dentures fit directly to your gums without the need for metal clasps, they’re often considered more comfortable for extended wear.

These different types of denture all refer to the materials that make up the base and the clasps of the prosthetic.

How are Partial Dentures Made? 

While the process for making partial dentures is relatively straightforward, it can take between 2-5 dentist visits to create metal, acrylic or flexible dentures. Depending on which teeth you are missing and where, your dentist will take scans, measurements or even impressions of your mouth. Then, using false resin teeth, you and your dentist will work together to figure out the size, shape and colour of teeth that should be fitted to your partial denture.

The teeth you choose and the scans of your mouth are then sent to a manufacturing laboratory where dentures are carefully crafted to be a perfect fit for your mouth. The dentures are returned to the dentist for a trial fitting. If there are any issues with the fit or comfort, they’ll be sent back to the lab to make small adjustments until you’re happy with how they look and feel in your mouth.

Considering Partial Dentures? Contact the Experts at Camira Dental Today!

Partial dentures are a fantastic solution for people who’d like to restore their smile and replace missing teeth. The technology and manufacturing processes are also evolving, meaning that partial dentures now fit more comfortably and securely than ever before. If you’d like to find out whether partial dentures are the right option for you, come and speak to the team at Camira Dental. Our expert dental staff can walk you through your options and help you decide whether partial dentures are the solution you’ve been looking for. Get in touch with us at any time if you have questions or would like to make an appointment!