Partial Dentures: How They Work and What Issues They Can Improve
Missing a tooth or teeth can be a nightmare for many people. People lose teeth for several reasons, including tooth decay or trauma. To fix the issue they can get teeth replacement procedures such as partials & dentures.
Since there are several teeth replacement techniques available, patients can choose the most effective one based on their budget, preferences, and medical history. Partial dentures are among the most popular teeth replacement techniques used by hundreds of thousands of people.
Partial dentures involve the use of removable replacements, combined with the surrounding tissues. They are made of gum-resembling plastic or metal bases to fit the mouth perfectly. Modern dentures are very realistic compared to traditional dentures.
The dentist first examines your mouth to determine the perfect design for a partial denture. The dentist then designs a temporary mold to get the exact shape, size, and visual appeal of the tooth once fitted. The dentist then prepares a partial denture that fits seamlessly in the missing space.
How Partial Dentures Work
Partial dentures resemble regular teeth. They work on both the upper and lower jaws. They are attached to a plastic or metallic base custom-made to fit on the missing tooth space. Besides the partial dentures filling the space with teeth, they also provide a firm grip which guarantees a better smile.
They are ideal when you have one or several teeth on either of your jaws. Partial dentures are bridges that replace the space left by missing teeth with artificial teeth. They are usually attached to other real teeth via crowns giving them a natural feel and blend.
Partial dentures give the patient a “real teeth feeling.” Best of all, they do not require any special care. Additionally, they help to keep the remaining teeth in the correct position. They also hold new teeth and the other real teeth, giving you a natural look.
In rare cases, partial dentures are acrylic combined with metal-like framework dentures. The metal-like framework has metal clasps to hold it to the natural teeth. They are cheaper alternatives to partial metal dentures.
Improvements That Partial Dentures Provide
Partial dentures have several benefits which can enhance a patient’s life. Although they can feel a little awkward at first, you will get used to them as long as they fit correctly. Improvements to your life include:
- Comfortable Eating
Although it requires some practice, eating with partial dentures gets easier as time passes. Immediately after the procedure, you should only eat soft foods, then slowly introduce food that requires chewing. After no time, chewing food feels natural.
- Improved Smile
Partial dentures give you a natural smile that improves your confidence. They are good-looking and provide your jaw with better support.
- Improved Speech
These teeth replacement techniques restore your speaking ability. It also makes speaking comfortable and easy. Initially, you may experience difficulty pronouncing some words but it will improve with practice.
- Cost-Effective
When you need teeth replacement but have a small budget, partial dentures are the way to go. They are not as expensive and require less time than full dental implants.
How do Partials Compare to Full Dentures?
Partials dentures are for when you have a single or several missing teeth in one place, while full dentures are for when you need to replace a complete set of teeth in a removable way. They are both cost-effective and practical teeth replacement techniques.
Conclusion
Dentures are effective teeth replacement solutions depending on your preferences, budget, circumstances, and dentist’s recommendation. Randolph Dental Group offers both partial dentures and complete denture treatment. Their highly-skilled dentist will help you get the best possible treatment for your unique needs. Your dentures should last several years and improve your life.