Partial dentures are a common way for dental patients to improve both the look and the function of their mouths. When an individual has lost teeth, but still has some remaining, those remaining teeth can help anchor dentures in place. Orthodontic installations that replace some, but not all, of the teeth in the mouth are called partial dentures.
Types of Partial Dentures
Several different kinds of partial dentures have been created to help with the wide variety of orthodontic challenges that patients face when they start losing teeth or develop periodontal problems. Some of these dental solutions have been around longer than others, but all of them are available for modern orthodontic installation according to the particular needs of an individual patient.
- Acrylic-based Partial Dentures – These types of dentures have been popular in recent decades. They feature a rigid lining with hard tooth surfaces to help with chewing food. One of the downsides of these denture types is that they can be brittle and prone to breaking.
- Flexible Dentures – A new kind of denture uses a synthetic resin for a versatile lining that is less likely to break and can cause less mouth paint for some patients. These dentures may be a bit more expensive than other options, but for many patients, they provide a lot of comfort and easier maintenance.
- Cast Metal Dentures – These types of dentures have been popular with patients who want a less “bulky” feel than they may get with the acrylic varieties.
- Single Tooth Dentures – Smaller installations fit into a gap in the row of teeth in the upper or lower arch. These partial dentures help with the cosmetic issues created by a single missing tooth.
Issues with Partial Dentures
At the beginning, lots of patients may experience some uncomfortable side effects of their denture installations. It can be difficult to adjust to speaking with your dentures in, and in addition, dentures can change the way hat you eat significantly. Some patients also have issues with conditions like jaw impact or bruxism, where grinding teeth can destroy denture products. Orthodontists study the individual mouth to figure out the best solutions for partial dentures that will last and wear well.
Maintaining Partial Dentures
Some common care tips apply to all sorts of partial dentures. Patients are encouraged to soak dentures daily, and store them appropriately when not in use. It’s also important to brush and floss remaining teeth, and to maintain the gum line under your dentures to prevent excessive bacteria from building up and causing periodontal problems. Patients whose partial dentures get in the way of proper home care should consult their dentist about how to fix the issue.
Talk to your dentist and orthodontist about the best dental solutions to replace your missing or decayed teeth. With the many options available in the world of modern dentistry, it’s likely that you’ll find a painless, comfortable way to fill in missing teeth and promote better dental health for the future.
