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Conventional Removable Partial Dentures

A partial denture is useful for a person missing some teeth, but who still has a number of natural teeth.

This device also is called a removable prosthesis, and is a means by which artificial replacement teeth are held in the mouth. The prosthesis commonly is kept in place by means of clasps. These are thin finger-like structures, usually made of a special resilient metal alloy or sometimes plastic, that rest upon and wrap around some remaining natural teeth. Clasps keep the prosthesis securely in place, but still allow a person to easily take it out for regular cleaning and proper brushing of remaining natural teeth.

Some Reasons for Having Partial Dentures Made

• Replace missing teeth
• Improve ability to chew more naturally
• Chew food with confidence
• Make it possible to eat certain favorite foods
• Maintain a healthier and socially acceptable mouth
• Aid in the preservation of remaining natural teeth
• Help prevent or treat problems of the TMJ (the jaw joint)
• Often improve speech
• Help develop a more pleasing and confident smile
• Support the face -- often with a more youthful appearance
• Enhance self esteem
• Replace missing teeth in an economical way
• Add an additional tooth to an existing partial denture if a natural tooth is lost
• In most cases, crowning teeth is not necessary to fit a partial denture
• Partial dentures are usually easy to repair if they are broken

Esthetics and the Conventional Partial Denture

Generally, clasp design is reasonably esthetic, and often it is possible for them not to be seen. However, depending upon partial denture design, which is based on mouth conditions, there may be some show of clasps. Often, this is not an appearance problem. However, if avoiding an unacceptable show of clasps would compromise optimal partial denture design, various special attachments sometimes may be employed to do away with conventional clasps. These attachments are more technically complex and often are referred to as precision or semi-precision attachments.

How Long Will a Partial Denture Last?

Accidents happen, and the mouth is constantly changing. Partial dentures may no longer fit properly, can break or bend, or simply wear out. In fact, there is nothing made for the mouth that is permanent. Fractured clasps and so forth often may be repaired.

On average, a partial denture may be expected to last about five years. Depending upon circumstances, certain removable prostheses can last a shorter or longer time.

How Often Should a Partial Denture Be Checked?

It is best to have a partial denture, as well as the rest of the mouth, checked at six-month intervals. If left uncorrected, small problems can develop into major ones, which could cause disease, loss of teeth, or necessitate premature prosthesis replacement.

Partial Dentures Need to Be Relined

The jaw ridge that a partial denture rests upon is constantly changing. It is normal and necessary to regularly modify how a partial denture contacts the ridge. This maintenance correction is called relining, and on average, needs to be performed annually for optimal function. However, this is dependent upon how an individual's mouth changes. A licensed dentist can best advise when a reline is needed, and when a reline will no longer adequately restore proper function.

by Joseph J. Massad, D.D.S.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

FAQ Dental Information - Denture and False Teeth

Q. How do you clean your dentures?

A. When cleaning your dentures, you should first rinse away loose food particles thoroughly. Then moisten your toothbrush and apply denture cleanser. Brush every surface, scrubbing gently to avoid damage.

Q. How many times a day does the denture need to be cleaned?

A. The denture needs to be cleaned two to three times daily.

Q. What is good oral hygiene when you have full dentures?

A. In addition to taking care of your dentures, taking care of your mouth also is vital if you wear full dentures. This includes brushing your gums, tongue, and palate every morning with a soft-bristled brush before inserting your dentures. This stimulates your tissues and helps remove plaque.

Q. Do dentures need to be replaced?

A. Dentures will need to be relined, remade, or rebased due to normal wear over a period of time and normal shrinkage of your gums and bones.

Q. What should you do if your dentures crack or break?

A. Call your dentist immediately. Normally, dentures can be repaired quickly, often on the same day. Damaged dentures can cause additional oral health problems, so see your dentist right away. Never attempt to repair dentures yourself. They require professional repair and adjustment.

Q. Why can't you fix dentures that break with glue?

A. Glues often contain harmful chemicals and are not effective in the proper repair of dentures.

Q. What are partial dentures?

A. Partial dentures are dentures that replace only a few missing teeth.

Q. How do you wear a removable partial denture?

A. Removable partial dentures are attached to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments.

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

A. Your partial denture may feel awkward or bulky for the first few weeks, but your mouth will eventually get used to it.

Q. How long should you wear a partial denture?

A. Initially, you may want to wear your partial denture all the time. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how long it should be worn and when it should be removed. Generally, your mouth tissues need to rest so it is advisable that you take out your partial denture at least 15 minutes per day.

Q. Will the partial denture change the way you speak?

A. Your partial denture may help your speech. It can be difficult to speak clearly when you are missing teeth. However, it also will take time to get used to it.

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.