Partial dentures are removable dental appliances that can replace one or more missing teeth. They are often used when a person is missing only a few teeth, but not all of them. Partial dentures can help to improve a person’s ability to chew and speak, and they can also help to maintain the shape of the face and the natural alignment of the remaining teeth. In addition, partial dentures can help to prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to further tooth loss and other problems.
What are the different types of partial dentures?
There are several different types of partial dentures, including:
- Removable partial dentures are the most common type of partial denture. These are made of a gum-colored plastic base that fits over the remaining teeth and gums, and they have a metal framework that holds the artificial teeth in place. Removable partial dentures can be easily removed for cleaning and maintenance.
- Fixed partial dentures, also known as “bridge” dentures, are permanently attached to the remaining teeth. They are made of a ceramic or porcelain material that is matched to the color of the natural teeth, and they are cemented in place so that they cannot be removed.
- Implant-supported partial dentures are a type of fixed partial denture that is supported by dental implants. These dentures are attached to small titanium posts that have been surgically implanted into the jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for the artificial teeth.
- Flexible partial dentures are a type of removable partial denture that is made of a flexible, gum-colored material that is more comfortable to wear than traditional partial dentures. They are less visible and less likely to cause irritation to the gums than other types of partial dentures.
How are partial dentures made?
Partial dentures are typically made by a dental laboratory, based on impressions and measurements taken by a dentist. The process typically involves the following steps:
- The dentist takes impressions of the remaining teeth and gums, using a putty-like material that hardens to create a mold. This mold is used to create a model of the mouth.
- The dentist takes measurements of the mouth, including the position and spacing of the remaining teeth, the shape of the gums, and the size and shape of the dental arch.
- The dentist uses the impressions and measurements to create a treatment plan, which outlines the design and dimensions of the partial denture. This plan is used by the dental laboratory to create the denture.
- The dental laboratory uses the treatment plan to create a wax model of the partial denture, which is used to determine the position and arrangement of the artificial teeth.
- The wax model is used to create a cast of the partial denture, using a special casting material.
- The cast is used to create the final partial denture, which is made of a gum-colored plastic base and a metal framework that holds the artificial teeth in place.
- The final denture is fitted and adjusted by the dentist to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The dentist may also make any necessary changes or modifications to the denture at this stage.
HPS Dental Care is Accepting New Dental Patients
At HPS Dental Care we focus not only on our dental patients’ teeth but also on their overall health. If you have one or more missing teeth give us a call at 248-652-0024 as soon as possible to schedule a dental appointment and we can determine if you’re a candidate for a partial denture. HPS Dental is conveniently located on 24 Mile Road near Shelby Rd. in Shelby Township, MI.