Different Types of Partial Dentures To Be Considered While Doing Teeth Replacement

A missing tooth can be quite bothering, especially if it is positioned in front. But, whatever the placement is, losing a tooth or a few teeth has a negative impact on your dental and oral health. Apart from this aspect of your overall wellness, this can also affect your confidence.

Fortunately, there are now tons of ways that can resolve this kind of dental problem. With today’s science and technology, options have become much wider, allowing every patient to choose the best solutions for them.

Dentures, dental implants, and bridges are the answers to this. While they are all effective and reliable, every case has distinct features and concerns. Hence, what may be best for some might not be ideal for others. Moreover, not everyone could afford implants and bridges – this is why dentures are the most common dental procedure when it comes to missing a tooth or teeth.

About Partial Dentures

Traditionally, dentists offer complete or full dentures to patients who lost several teeth. People who no longer have healthy teeth also receive this kind of recommendation because full dentures will come as a replacement.

This then poses a problem for those who have lost a tooth or only a few teeth. Thankfully, though, partial dentures have become available for this kind of dental concern.

 Dentures and Its Types

  1. Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are for those who have lost all of their teeth. Patients have two options under this type:

  • Conventional

Conventional dentures are made after the complete healing process. It will take about eight to 12 weeks before a patient could wear the denture because the healing of the gum tissues is also necessary for this type.

As the name states, this is the traditional type of denture. Most individuals who have come across or learned about dentures are likely most familiar with this kind.

  • Immediate

Contrary to conventional dentures, the immediate kinds are made in advance. Patients who choose to have immediate dentures no longer need to wait and to complete the healing process as they can already wear the denture as soon as the teeth are removed.

While it offers an advantage since patients will not experience the day-to-day struggle of living without teeth, this kind of complete denture needs adjustments more than the conventional ones. This is because gums and bones shrink over time.

  1. Partial Dentures

Under partial denture, there are four kinds that fall under two categories: removable and fixed. Under the first category, there are three kinds: flexible, cast metal, and acrylic clasp. 

  • Cast Metal Partial Denture

The cast metal kind is the most common of all removable partial dentures. As the name states, it has a cast metal framework that provides high-quality support to replace the missing tooth or teeth.

This kind of denture also uses precision attachments, which improve the overall aesthetics. But, patients may opt for the usual metal clasps instead of the attachments for lesser costs. It is worth noting that precision attachments are typically only for aesthetic reasons.

As for its longevity, this kind of partial denture can last for years. It is the most durable and sturdy set, making it sensible why it is the most common of all.

  • Acrylic Partial Denture

Acrylic clasps are another type of removable partial denture. It is also known as the “flippers,” and it is the least expensive kind of all. 

Although this appears to be an advantage for some, lower prices come with drawbacks, as well. In this case, flippers are less optimal because the material is not as effective as the other kinds. Moreover, it has a “bulky” shape, causing many people to find it unattractive and uncomfortable.

  • Flexible Partial Denture

If you are allergic to acrylic, another ideal option for you is the flexible partial denture. Apart from experiencing comfort, this kind offers a natural-looking denture because of its gum-colored clasps.

However, this costs much more than the cast metal and acrylic kinds of dentures. Furthermore, this is not for long-term purposes as this requires a lot of adjustments and maintenance. Nevertheless, this is an effective solution if you are intending to resolve your missing tooth concern for a short period of time.

  • Fixed Partial Denture

A fixed partial denture is normally called a “bridge.” Instead of a removable denture, this kind remains in your mouth all the time. You eat with it, and clean it the same way you clean your existing teeth.

Dentists and experts normally recommend this kind of denture to patients who lost a tooth or two in placement where there are healthy and strong neighboring teeth. The whole structure features a crown at each end with the replacement tooth or teeth in the middle.

Final Thoughts

When you lose a tooth or teeth, there are now several options available for you. But, before you head out and make an appointment to get your chosen solution, consult first with your dentist.

Keep in mind that they know the best ways to keep your dental and oral health in their most optimum states. So, trust them, and ensure to share all your concerns when it comes to this aspect of your health.

However, if you don’t have a dentist yet, remember that a quick Google search for phrases like “dental crowns harrisburg nc” or “dentures near me” should provide a list of professionals that you can reach out to