Detailed Procedure Guide: Partial Dentures
What is a partial denture?
Partial removable dentures, sometimes referred to as “partials,” are removable dental appliances that replace one or more missing teeth.
A removable partial denture typically consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base. Sometimes a partial denture includes a metal framework or has metal clasps that help hold it to your teeth. Basically, you can think of it as a retainer with teeth on it.
Partials are an inexpensive, less invasive option for replacing missing teeth and oftentimes provide limited needed functionality. This is why insurance companies soemtimes pay benefits for partials and not dental implants.
But some people find it difficult to chew or speak normally while wearing a partial denture and they also need to be removed daily for cleaning. Moreover, dentures do not prevent jawbone shrinkage, which can change the shape of your face and lead to a variety of dental health issues. Partial dentures also need to be replaced periodically, as opposed to other potential solutions that are natural and permanent.
What is the process for placement of a partial denture?
Before you get a partial denture it’s possible you may need preparatory dental work on any natural remaining teeth. Then your implant dentist will take an impression of your gums and teeth, which will be used to manufacture your denture, which is created in a lab. Once developed, your dentist will fit your partial, making sure it fits as well as possible.
Because of the overall feel of partial dentures, most people find that it takes a few weeks to get used to wearing the prosthesis. It is also important to know that wearing a partial can also be a huge social adjustment, learning to eat and speak while wearing one.
How do you determine if you’re a good candidate for a partial denture?
If you’re missing one or more teeth a partial denture can be used to complete your smile and help keep your gums, muscles and jawbone active and engaged.
Unfortunately, a partial denture is rarely the best possible solution, as partials do not prevent bone loss and pressure or movement from the device can negatively impact adjacent teeth. Wearing a partial denture long-term can also present an increased risk of tooth decay and future tooth loss..
Cost of a partial denture
According to our survey of Implant Evolution dentists, the cost of a partial denture typically ranges from between $700 and $1,500, though partial dentures with a metal framework can cost more—typically somewhere between $1,200 and $1,900.
Proper upkeep
Partial dentures should be taken out every night to give your teeth and gum tissue a chance to “breathe.” That’s a great opportunity to clean your partials using a denture brush and denture toothpaste—or denture cleaning tablets.
Then your device should be stored in water or solution—in a safe place—overnight. You’ll also want to make sure that you use your fingers to put your partial denture on and take it off, as biting produces the kind of stress that can break the device.
Alternatives to Partials
If you’re considering removable partial dentures, you should get an exam and ask your implant dentist to talk with you about all of your options for tooth replacement.
Dental implants, and other implant-supported solutions, are generally considered the best possible solution for missing teeth, as implants not only imitate natural teeth in form and function, they are a strong, stable, comfortable long-term solution that promotes better overall dental health.