Partial dentures are replacement teeth used to prevent the sagging of facial muscles and improve the appearance, function, and overall oral health. When a patient has lost one or more teeth partial dentures are an excellent alternative to complete dentures. Partial dentures are removable, where the replacement teeth fasten to a gum-colored plastic support that is connected to a metal framework, serving to hold the dentures in place inside of the mouth. Existing teeth are able to attach to the partial dentures with some type of retentive device, often a clasp or precision attachment.
While a fixed bridge must remain in the mouth, the partial denture, otherwise known as the removable bridge, can be taken in and out of the mouth. Partial dentures play a significant role in ensuring that the natural teeth remaining in the mouth do not shift, which will elongate their lifespan. Matching the color of the partial dentures to that of the patient’s natural teeth will help to give them a beautiful, natural smile.
The available options for partial dentures today are truly remarkable. Patients have benefited from the look and feel, the durability, and the comfort of partial dentures. To learn more about your dental options, contact our Royal Palm Beach dentist office at your earliest convenience.
Common Questions about Partial Dentures
When patients must evaluate the option of partial dentures there are often many questions that linger in their minds. A person’s smile is something that everyone values, so it is important to be fully educated before making the decision with your dentist about the most appropriate plan for you and your oral health. Below, we outline some of the most frequently asked questions regarding partial dentures to give patients a comprehensive outlook on the procedure, what it entails, and how it will affect their everyday lives.
How long will it take me to get used to partial dentures?
Patients will slowly acclimate themselves with their partial dentures as they get more and more accustom to having something in their mouths. For the first few weeks, patients often note feeling that the partial dentures are bulky, even awkward. Nevertheless, patients will soon become comfortable with their partial dentures. It is important to remove and insert the partial dentures carefully, as the clasps can break or bend if they bitten down while forcing them into the mouth.
Will I have trouble eating with partial dentures in my mouth?
Patients are advised to eat soft foods in the beginning as they get more and more comfortable with the partial dentures. However, once the patient has gotten used to them, eating should become much easier then it was when teeth were missing. Gum chewing and sticky foods should be avoided while the partial dentures are in.
How long am I supposed to wear my dentures?
In the begging, it is recommended to wear partial dentures at all times in order for your mouth to get used to them. The patient may develop sores from the dentures and the dentist will make the appropriate adjustments to fix this issue. After a while, however, the patient will likely remove the partial dentures before bed and place them back in the mouth in the morning.
How will my speech be affected by the partial dentures?
Patients are often shocked to see the significant improvements in their speech. As soon as the patient has become acclimated and comfortable with the partial dentures, it is very likely that their speech will improve tremendously.
What is the proper way to care for my partial dentures?
The dentures should be brushed each day to prevent plaque buildup. It is recommended to use a denture brush and American Dental Association approved denture cleaner. Overnight, the dentures should be kept in soaking solution or clean water. Finally, it is imperative that the patient regularly brushes, flosses, and visits the dentist to ensure overall oral health.
Partial dentures are a great solution for many people who are missing a tooth or multiple teeth. To get started with an initial appointment, contact James Family Dentistry today.