FAQ > Partial Denture - What you should know

What is a partial denture?

Þ This is a plate with a number of false teeth on it. It may be all plastic or a mixture of metal and plastic. Both types may have retaining clips (clasps), to help keep the denture in place in the mouth. Depending on where they are, some of these clips may be visible when you smile or open your mouth.

Why should I replace missing teeth?

Þ Your appearance is one reason. Another is that the gap left by a missing tooth can mean greater strain is put on the teeth on each side. A gap can also mean your 'bite' is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and alter the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can then lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes both decay and gum disease. Teeth that are out of position can damage tissues in the mouth. A removable partial denture fills in the space created by missing teeth and fills out your smile. A denture helps you to properly chew food, a difficult task when you are missing teeth. In addition, a denture may improve speech and prevent a sagging face by providing support for lips and cheeks.

How are missing teeth replaced?

Þ This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are in the mouth. The condition of the other teeth also affects the decision. There are two main ways to replace the missing teeth. The first is with a removable false tooth or teeth - a partial denture. The second is with a fixed bridge. A bridge is usually used where there are fewer teeth to replace, or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth.

What are the replacement teeth made of?

Þ Usually plastic, and occasionally porcelain. Each replacement tooth is made specially, to get the right shape, color and size for you.

What is the difference between a plastic partial denture and one that contains metal?

Þ Plastic partial dentures are less expensive to make but unless they are designed very carefully they can damage the teeth they fit against.

Þ Metal partial dentures are usually made from an alloy of cobalt and chromium and they are much stronger. They are lighter to wear and can be supported by the remaining teeth. Although the base is metal, they have gum-colored plastic and natural-looking teeth fixed to them. They are more expensive than the plastic ones.

How do I choose the best type for me?

Þ Ask our dentist. In most cases, a metal-based partial denture gives the best result, but the higher cost may make you decide against it.

How do I wear a removable partial denture?

Þ Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, connected by metal framework. Removable partial dentures attach to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. Precision attachments are generally more esthetic than metal clasps and they are nearly invisible. Crowns on your natural teeth may improve the fit of a removable partial denture and they are usually required with attachments. Dentures with precision attachments generally cost more than those with metal clasps.

How do I look after my denture?

Þ You should remove the denture from your mouth for cleaning. You'll be shown how to clean it by our dentist, probably with a small toothbrush and toothpaste, or by soaking it in cleansing solution. If you have a metal based denture you'll need to choose a cleansing solution that's suitable for metal.

How long will it take to get used to wearing a partial denture?

Þ For the first few weeks, your new partial denture may feel awkward or bulky. However, your mouth will eventually become accustomed to wearing it. Inserting and removing the denture will require some practice. Your denture should fit into place with relative ease. Never force the partial denture into position by biting down. This could bend or break the clasps.

How long should I wear the partial denture?

Þ The dentist will give you specific instruction about how long the partial denture should be worn and when it should be removed. Initially, you may be asked to wear your partial denture all the time. This may be temporarily uncomfortable but it is the quickest way to identify those denture parts that may need adjustment. If the denture puts too much pressure on a particular area, that spot will become sore. Dentist will adjust the denture to fit more comfortably. After making adjustments, you will probably be recommended to take the denture out of your mouth before going to bed and replace it in the morning.

Will it be difficult to eat with a partial denture?

Þ Replacing missing teeth should make eating a more pleasant experience. Start out by eating soft foods, cut into small pieces. Chew on both sides of the mouth to keep even pressure on the denture. Avoid foods that are sticky or hard. You may want to avoid chewing gum while you adjust to the denture.

Will the partial denture change how I speak?

Þ It can be difficult to speak clearly when you are missing teeth. Consequently, wearing a partial denture may help. If you find it difficult to pronounce certain words with your new denture, practice reading out loud. Repeat the words that give you trouble. With time, you will become accustomed to speaking properly with your denture.

How do I take care of my partial denture?

Þ Handling a partial denture requires care. It's a good idea to stand over a folded towel or a sink of water just in case you accidentally drop the denture. Brush the denture each day to remove food deposits and plaque. Brushing your denture helps prevent the appliance from becoming permanently stained. It's best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures. A denture brush has bristles that are arranged to fit the shape of the denture. A regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also acceptable. Avoid using a brush with hard bristles, which can damage the denture.

Þ Some people use hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid to clean their dentures, which are both acceptable. Other types of household cleaners and many toothpastes are too abrasive and should not be used for cleaning dentures.

Þ Clean your dentures by thoroughly rinsing off loose food particles. Moisten the brush and apply the denture cleaner. Brush all denture surfaces gently to avoid damaging the plastic or bending the attachments.

Þ A denture could lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist. At night, the denture should be placed in soaking solution or water. However, if the appliance has metal attachments, they could be tarnished if placed in soaking solution. Our dentist can recommend the proper method for keeping your dentures in good shape.

Will my partial denture need adjusting?

Þ Over time, adjusting the partial denture may be necessary. As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture. Your bone and gum ridges can recede or shrink, resulting in a loose-fitting denture. Partial Dentures that do not fit properly should be adjusted by our dentist. Loose partial dentures can cause various problems, including sores or infections. See our dentist promptly if your denture becomes loose.

Can I make minor adjustments or repairs to my partial denture?

Þ You can do serious harm to your partial denture and to your health by trying to adjust or repair your denture. A denture that is not made to fit precisely by a dentist can cause irritation and sores. Using a do-it-yourself kit can damage the appliance beyond repair. Glues sold over-the-counter often contain harmful chemicals and should not be used on a denture.

Þ If your denture no longer fits properly, if it breaks, cracks or chips, or if one of the teeth becomes loose, see our dentist immediately. In many cases, dentists can make necessary adjustments or repairs, often on the same day. Complicated repairs may require the denture be sent to a special dental lab.

How should I take care of my mouth?

Þ Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily help prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Pay special attention to cleaning teeth that fit under the denture's metal clasps. Plaque trapped under the clasps will increase the risk of tooth decay.

Should I take my denture out at night?

Þ Yes. leave it soaked in water to prevent it from warping.

What is the alternative to a partial denture?

Þ The main alternative is a fixed bridge, made by constructing crowns on the teeth at either side of the space, and then joining the two crowns together by placing a false tooth in the space. This is all made in the laboratory and then the pieces are cemented into place with special adhesives. The bridge can't be removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

· Tooth Whitening

· Braces

· Dental Fillings

· Dental Bridges

· Dentures

· Partial Dentures

· Dental Crowns

· Dental Implants

· Fissure Sealants

· Bad Breath

· Toothache

· Wisdom Teeth

· Gum Disease