At Restoration Smiles: Adult & Pediatric Dentistry, removable partial dentures are appliances that replace several missing teeth along the upper or lower arch of the mouth. Partial dentures extend the smile, improve chewing and speaking ability, restore proper tooth alignment, and improve facial aesthetics.

Unlike complete dentures that simultaneously replace all teeth along the upper or lower jaw, partial dentures fill in the spaces left behind when patients lose only some of their natural teeth. With a partial denture, some patients can also choose to replace crowns and fillings with restorations that match their partials. Removable partial dentures include cast metal, flexible nylon, and acrylic resin. Metal clasps attach cast metal and flexible nylon partials to the remaining teeth. Acrylic resin partials are bonded to the remaining teeth with a dental bonding adhesive. 

Who Would Need a Partial Denture?

If you are missing several teeth in a row and would like to restore your smile, you may want to consider partial dentures. Unlike a bridge that requires the two adjacent teeth to be filed down to accommodate the support crowns, a partial denture is secured by clasping onto surrounding teeth without needing to prepare the latter. This means you must have healthy adjacent teeth that could support your partial denture. Our dentist will assess your teeth's health to determine whether you are a candidate.

How Is a Partial Denture Made?

A partial denture is basically a metal framework that holds artificial teeth in place. The frame fits comfortably under your gum line, so no one can tell you’re wearing it. To have it made, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth which will be used by a dental lab to create a custom-fit partial denture. Some patients may need to wear a removable appliance before a permanent one can be made. In this case, moldable plastic can be worn temporarily until your mouth has healed enough to proceed with your permanent prosthesis.

The Advantages of Partial Dentures

A partial denture is a great way to restore multiple missing teeth while avoiding the need for a complete denture. The removable appliances typically allow you to chew and bite, helping you eat a healthy diet and maintain good nutrition. A partial denture can help you retain a natural appearance and facial structure and restore confidence.

Once your missing teeth are restored with a dental prosthetic like a partial denture, your other teeth will be stabilized and prevented from moving into the empty spaces. This can help prevent future issues. When you eat or speak, your remaining natural teeth no longer bear excessive chewing forces. You will gain all these benefits without undergoing invasive oral surgery requiring lengthy recovery and extensive aftercare. 

If you are missing multiple teeth and are ready to begin your tooth replacement journey, visit Restoration Smiles Adult & Pediatric Dentistry at 2 Coolidge St, Suite 202, Hudson, MA 01749, or call (508) 658-0661. We will help you map out your treatment plan so you can have a beautiful and complete smile again as soon as possible!