Partial dentures can help boost the confidence of wearers by giving them a beautiful and complete smile by restoring missing one or more teeth. A partial denture is a removable dental appliance used to replace one or multiple missing teeth that helps restore the structure and function of the jaw. Removable partial dentures are made from metal and acrylic and may have metal framework and clasps which are connected to the teeth giving them strength to handle chewing and speaking. Partial denture is made to attach to your existing natural teeth with devices known as precision attachments.
Types of Partial Dentures:
1. Cast Metal Partial Denture
The cast metal partial denture is lightweight and durable partial denture that provides high-quality replacement teeth on a rigid frame. Fabricated using ultra-thin and light cobalt chrome they provide great balance between strength and stability. They are a good permanent option that can last for years with proper care.
2. Acrylic Partial Denture
Acrylic partial dentures also called a dental flipper is an all-acrylic partial denture that is usually supported by metal clasps. Acrylic partial dentures are the most affordable partial dentures whose color can be matched to the existing gums. However, because of its impact-resistant acrylic used in the fabrication process, they can feel bulky and uncomfortable for some patients to use long-term.
3. Flexible Partial Denture
Flexible partial dentures are often chosen for patients who are allergic to cast metal or acrylic because of their hypoallergenic materials. They can be a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing solution that doesn’t require adhesives or metal clasps as they hold on to gums by themselves. However, denture relines, and denture repairs are much more difficult because of their fabrication process and any accidents caused may need new flexible partial dentures.
Advantages of Partial Dentures:
- Partial dentures are less invasive and cost-effective dental restorations compared to other tooth replacement options.
- Can be adjusted to add additional teeth overtime in certain circumstances.
- They are easier to adapt and are a better option to replace lost teeth in your lower jaw compared to full dentures.
Disadvantages of Partial Dentures:
- Takes time adapting to partial dentures.
- Partial dentures may not perform well the same as dental bridges or implants.
- May require receiving a replacement partial if you lose an abutment tooth.
- Increases the possibility of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Must remove your dentures at night.
Partial denture cost
The cost of partial dentures will vary depending on the number of teeth a patient needs to replace, the materials used in fabrication of partial dentures, and the treatment procedure.
