Partial dentures are removable dental devices that replace missing teeth, specifically targeting the ones that are absent while blending in with the remaining natural teeth. If all teeth are missing, a complete denture is used instead.
What are partial dentures?
Partial dentures are meticulously crafted to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. Partial dentures are versatile tooth replacement solutions, capable of replacing single or multiple missing teeth .They are crafted to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth, restoring smiles and eating functions. They can be made from acrylic (plastic) or cobalt-chrome alloy (metal), providing both aesthetics and functionality options.
Why do I need partial dentures?
A missing tooth or teeth can lead to oral issues in the future if left untreated. Partial dentures may be considered to avoid the problems caused by missing teeth, which can include:
- Poor aesthetics & gappy smile
- Low self esteem
- Difficulty eating food
- Tooth pain
- Speech problems
- Tooth movement & tilting teeth
- Bite problems
If you notice any of these consequences of the missing teeth, it is advisable to act sooner rather than later.
Are there any alternatives to partial dentures?
There are several alternatives to partial dentures that you may want to consider. These tend to be a more permanent, durable solution.
Dental Implants
A popular alternative to partial dentures are dental implants. Implants effectively replace the entire tooth, including the root and crown, which prevents bone deterioration and restores the same strength and durability as your natural tooth. This does however require a more invasive surgical procedure.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer a viable alternative to dentures when several teeth are missing from the same area of the mouth. There are a few types of dental bridges – including permanent and removable options. The choice between them depends on factors such as the condition of your teeth and jaw, your financial considerations, and personal comfort preference
Types of partial dentures
Different materials and manufacturing techniques mean there are several partial denture options on the market. The location of your missing tooth/teeth and the permanency of the denture needed will influence the type of partial denture you choose.
Acrylic Dentures
Acrylic dentures are a popular choice for those seeking a quick and comfortable fit. These dentures consist of teeth attached to an acrylic base plate, providing stability by resting on the gum ridges. While they may be budget-friendly, they do come with some considerations.
Pros of Acrylic Dentures:
- Cost-effective solution for replacing multiple missing teeth.
- Quick and easy to make, offering a speedy smile restoration.
- Simple adjustments and repairs make them convenient for maintenance.
- Easy to insert and remove, providing flexibility for users.
Cons of Acrylic Dentures:
- Comfort may be compromised if not properly fitted.
- Limited grip and bulkier compared to other options.
- Requires muscle control as they’re not permanently fixed.
- Prone to breakage, especially if not fitting correctly.
Cobalt Chrome Dentures
With a metal base plate or framework holding the denture teeth,cobalt chrome dentures provide enhanced grip and durability.
Pros of Cobalt Chrome Dentures:
- Superior comfort and adaptation due to their streamlined design.
- Thin and hygienic, offering a close fit for optimal functionality.
- Excellent grip and chewing experience, mimicking natural teeth.
- Custom-designed for precise fit and strength, ensuring longevity.
Cons of Cobalt Chrome Dentures:
- Higher initial and maintenance costs may be a consideration.
- Limited adaptability for certain changes compared to acrylic dentures.
- Susceptible to damage if mishandled, requiring careful maintenance.
- Metal visibility and complexity in fabrication may deter some users.
Your teeth and attachments
Typically, dentists use either clasps or precision attachments to secure partial dentures in place.
Clasps, often made of metal, cover at least half of adjacent teeth to the partial denture. Depending on their placement, these clasps may be visible when smiling.
Precision attachments, on the other hand, connect to existing teeth or dental implants. Dentists tailor precision attachments individually for each patient, sometimes incorporating crowns to fit seamlessly over existing teeth.
How are partial dentures fitted?
Partial dentures are made and fitted over a period of six weeks with up to six different appointments. Between each appointment, your clinician will work on the dentures in the laboratory which is why there is usually one week between each appointment.
- Initial consultation: This appointment involves a thorough assessment of your dental and medical history, followed by a detailed examination of soft and hard tissues. Expectations, costs, and treatment plans are discussed.
- Primary impressions: During this first clinical appointment, a basic impression is taken so we can make custom fitting trays for a more accurate secondary impression at the next appointment.
- Secondary impressions and bite registration: In this appointment, we use a custom-designed impression tray for detailed impressions. We also take a bite registration to assess jaw alignment. These impressions and registration help our clinician create the initial denture fitting.
- Trying the denture: This is our first chance to try the new denture in place to see how it looks and feels. We often use an acrylic base plate at this point to make the try in as realistic as possible. The teeth used will be the actual teeth we will use in the finished denture.
- Fitting the denture: If all went well at the previous appointments, we will fit the denture at this appointment.
- Review appointment : We will call you back within 1-2 weeks to check how everything is going with your new denture. This gives us a chance to make any necessary adjustments to the denture once they have settled into the gum tissue.
Eating with partial dentures
You can eat with partial dentures, but like any new experience, practice makes perfect. Wearing dentures takes a lot of neuromuscular control and it takes a fair amount of perseverance to learn how to eat with your new dentures.
Initially, we advise starting with a softer diet and cutting food into smaller pieces. Chewing slowly aids in developing the necessary muscle control for successful denture use.
It’s best to avoid sticky foods like toffees and tough items such as steak, chocolate, nuts, and raw carrots at first. With growing confidence, you can gradually expand your dietary options for a balanced and healthy intake.
How much do partial dentures cost?
At Neyo Dental Specialists, our prices are as follows:
- Denture Consultation from £65
- Acrylic Partial Dentures with 1-3 teeth from £550
- Acrylic Partial Dentures with 4-6 teeth from £650
- Acrylic Partial Dentures with 9-13 teeth from £950
- Cobalt Chrome dentures from £1250
If you would like some further advice or information about the different types of dentures available, contact us by phone or pop in for a chat at our clinic in Burgess Hill, Sussex.
