If you only need to replace one or more missing teeth, partial dentures are what you need. These dental appliances are designed specifically to meet the needs of a patient who hasn’t yet lost an entire arch of teeth, offering a natural appearance, speech clarity, and the ability to eat more efficiently without needing a complete denture.
At Dentistry at Kennestone, we take pride in crafting high-quality partial dentures using a variety of materials and systems to ensure you get a restoration tailored to your unique needs.
What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are removable appliances designed to replace several missing teeth in either your upper or lower arch.
More than just a cosmetic solution, partial dentures help restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They also prevent your remaining teeth from shifting, which can occur when there are gaps in your mouth.
To be a candidate for partial dentures, you’ll need to have some healthy teeth remaining in the arch where the denture will be placed.
Benefits of Partial Dentures
For those who are missing some teeth, partial dentures provide several advantages. Here are some key advantages:
- Regaining the ability to bite and chew, making eating a range of foods simpler.
- Improve the appearance of your smile and face by filling in gaps, helping to maintain facial structure.
- Simple to maintain and clean in comparison to other dental prosthetics.
- Designed for comfort, using materials that fit well and feel natural.
- Keep the remaining teeth from moving out of alignment by offering stability and support.
- Allow you to better grind and chew food, improving digestion.
What Materials Are Used in Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are made of metal and acrylic or completely out of acrylic. A patient’s specific needs and anatomy dictate the design of the partial denture, and every effort is made to construct a self-cleaning partial denture that preserves the remaining teeth and oral tissues.
Dr. Foxhall will design your partial denture so that the chewing forces are evenly distributed over the entire surface of the remaining teeth and soft tissues. Changes to your remaining teeth may be recommended to help equalize these forces.
Metal partials are generally preferred as they are structurally superior. They are thinner and more hygienic than acrylic partials, which are typically used as transitional or temporary partials. Dr. Foxhall will consult you to determine the appropriate partial for your situation.
Caring for Your Partial Dentures
To preserve your oral health and prolong the life of your partial dentures, you must take proper care of them. For example, you should use a soft-bristle toothbrush and a gentle, non-abrasive denture cleaner to brush your partial dentures daily.
Avoid hot water and regular toothpaste, as the former can melt the denture's materials and cause warping. Soak your partial dentures in water or a denture cleaning solution when not in use.
It is also essential to schedule routine dental checkups. We will ensure your partial dentures fit well, remove plaque build-up, and address any issues.
Get Durable Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are reliable and durable solutions for patients with extensive tooth loss. With proper care and regular dental appointments at Dentistry at Kennestone, your denture can enhance your smile for years to come.
If you want to learn more about these dental appliances, reach out!
