Partial Dentures are a tooth replacement option for patients who have lost all or most of their natural teeth. They are a less invasive and more affordable treatment than fixed bridgework or dental implants, and offer a number of benefits including better oral health and increased confidence.
How They Are Made
The first step in preparing for partial dentures is an examination of the patient’s mouth to check for any active dental diseases, root tips or sharp protuberances that may cause irritation once the denture is fabricated. These problems can be treated to make a person more comfortable before fabricating the partial.
Your dentist will take impressions of the teeth and gums that the partial will replace to create a custom-fit denture. The impressions will then be sent to a dental laboratory. The denture will be crafted based on these impressions and other information that the dentist may have obtained during your visit, such as measurements of the palate of your mouth.
Depending on the type of denture chosen, it can be crafted from a variety of materials. The most common is cobalt chrome, which provides a balance between toughness and flexibility. The metal base of these partial dentures is usually covered with plastic or acrylic, making them less likely to fracture on trauma.
How They Fit
Partial dentures are designed to match the size and shape of your natural teeth, allowing them to blend in seamlessly with your other teeth. This helps to keep your smile healthy and attractive, and also prevents the emergence of new stains or discolorations due to food particles that get trapped in the gaps.
How They Are Cared For
You should remove your partial dentures at night to allow them to breathe and relax. If you don’t, they could become brittle or break easily. It is best to soak them in water or a denture cleaning solution before you put them back in your mouth. Brushing with a soft toothbrush and denture paste or soap can help to keep them clean and free of plaque and bacteria.
When wearing your dentures, it is important to avoid chewing hard foods and sticky substances because they can trap food and irritate the tissues in your mouth. Instead, eat soft foods that can be easily cut into smaller pieces. This will help to reduce pressure on your palate and allow you to appreciate fine dining.
How They Are Made
After examining your mouth and taking an impression, the denture is then crafted at the dental lab using a special process called casting. The cast of your partial denture will be made from an impression of your palate and the supporting teeth, and may need to be refabricated a few times before it is the right fit.
This can be a long process, and you will need to return for several adjustments along the way. After a few adjustment visits, your partial denture will be adjusted to be as comfortable and functional as possible.