Partial Dentures

A partial denture is a removable dental appliance made to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues.  They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth.

There are two types of dentures – complete and partial dentures.

Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain.  A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A partial denture may be either “conventional” or “immediate.”  A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 4 to 6 weeks.  During this time the patient will go without teeth.  Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will be made to improve the fit of the immediate partial denture.

Partial dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or re-adjusted due to normal wear.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting partial dentures requires several appointments, usually over several weeks.  Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom partial denture.  Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit.  At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed partial denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new partial dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new partials.  Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will increase the life of your new partial dentures.

You can smile confidently again with the help of a custom, natural-looking partial denture created just for you.  Call us at 918-245-5800 to discuss your denture options.