Partial Dentures

When it comes to a partial denture, it means you have some existing natural teeth remaining but missing more than one. A partial denture is a removable appliance that fills in the spaces between the natural teeth with acrylic teeth. The partial denture is usually retained in the mouth through clips that hug onto the natural teeth remaining. Before getting partial dentures, it is very important to have the remaining teeth checked by a dentist to confirm the remaining teeth are strong enough to support the partial denture. Due to the partial dentures’ reliance on the natural teeth for retention, partial dentures carry the risk of damaging existing teeth if the correct maintenance is not completed.

Removable Partial dentures are commonly made from acrylic or with a cast metal framework and acrylic teeth. Both options are great and have their pros and cons.

• Acrylic Partial Denture
  1. Increased Bulk and size
  2. Great if you are in transition towards complete denture
  3. For remaining teeth that are not deemed strong enough to support cast metal partial

• Cast Metal Partial Denture
  1. Less Bulky and more rigid
  2. Great if your remaining natural teeth are strong and stable
  3. Can distribute occlusal forces more evenly on the teeth and tissue
     • “Rest Preparations” maybe ground in by the dentist. The “Rest Preparations” well help seat the partial denture in place and can guide occlusal forces, creating less stress on your natural teeth.

Both options work well depending on the needs of the client, so be sure to consult with your denturist to see what works best for you.

Why is it important to fill the spaces when missing teeth?

1. It prevents neighboring and opposing natural teeth from drifting into the edentulous space and causing more issues
   • If you got a partial denture and stop wearing it for a period of time, you may not be able to fit the denture back into the space
2. It can cause extra stress on remaining teeth, which can:
   • Wear down natural teeth faster
   • Chip or break natural teeth
   • Cause teeth to move and drift faster
   • Hurt your Jaw
3. It can hinder one’s confidence because one may be embarrassed to smile