If you are missing some teeth, partial dentures may be the answer. Jerry Massimei, D.D.S., A.P.C., provides gentle, experienced dental care to residents in Chula Vista, Eastlake and Bonita, California and runs his own practice, Jerry Massimei Dentistry. He discusses here what partial dentures are.
Partial dentures are an inexpensive method of replacing missing teeth without the need to cut down a tooth to accommodate crowns, having fixed bridges, or having surgery to fix implants.
In the fitting process, impressions are taken of the upper and lower teeth and a bite registration is made, so that the dentist can see how the upper and lower teeth come together. If the interspace between the upper and lower teeth is not adequate for the framework of the partial dentures, adjustments are made in the teeth to allow the spacing that is needed and then the impressions are taken.
Laboratory Fitting
The models are then sent to a laboratory that constructs the partial dentures, whether they are of a metal and plastic variety or an all-plastic variety. Then the lab returns it to the dentist.
Usually some minimal adjustment is needed to fit dentures to the mouth to make sure they go into place easily and are retained by retentive clasps. That can either be fashioned from metal or of a cosmetic variety.
Removable partial dentures are removed from the mouth to be cleaned and then are replaced. They differ from fixed partial dentures, which are attached in some fashion to the adjacent teeth.
Adjustments May Be Needed
After the partial dentures have been fitted, sometimes sore spots may develop. If excess pressure is on the gums, the patient would return to have that adjusted to relieve the pressure.
Partial removable dentures, although inexpensive, are far inferior to fixed replacement of teeth. One reason is because they have loosen the teeth they are holding onto and causing decay. Another is that they can be uncomfortable for many patients.
In any case, partial dentures are almost always a great option for people looking to take care of missing teeth. It’s easy to fit them and they almost always are easy to get used to. So if you think you could benefit from partial dentures, speak to your dentist at your earliest convenience.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
