The Pros and Cons of Removable Partial Dentures

If you have one or more missing teeth in your mouth you have three options to consider for the replacements. You can either opt for dental implants, a fixed bridge, and removable partial dentures. These options will help you to function normally when chewing or talking, prevent your existing teeth from shifting and improve the appearance of your smile. Depending on your unique needs partial dentures may be a good option either as a long-term or a temporary measure. Let us look at the various types of partials along with the pros and cons of various types of partial dentures. We will also discuss how to care for your mouth with partial dentures to prevent further tooth loss.

Types of Partial Dentures You Can Consider

Partial dentures are developed from a resin base into which artificial teeth are inserted and custom developed by laboratories from impressions of your mouth. You can have a temporary partial known as a flipper to act as a tooth replacement immediately after the extraction to ensure you are never without a tooth. The main reason for having them is aesthetic purposes and the flipper usually does not function well. It is entirely supported by your gums and you must consider the irritation or the thinning of the soft tissues in your mouth. They are best used immediately after the extraction and during the healing period before a permanent replacement option is developed for you at Grafton Dental office.

Traditional removable partial dentures in Pleasant Hill can replace one or more missing teeth and have clasps that wrap around healthy abutment teeth to remain secure. The clasps can be developed from a resin material to make them tooth-colored or even metal if you prefer. The partial denture you have chosen must fit properly to evenly distribute your biting forces, you can function normally and most importantly prevent trauma to your gums and natural teeth.

The Pros of Partial Dentures

When looking for partial dentures you will want to understand the benefits of having them and may research for the dentist near me to collect the information you want. You may be provided with the following information regarding the benefits of partial dentures:

• Partial dentures are less invasive and are available at an affordable price when compared to other types of tooth replacement options if you have multiple missing teeth in your mouth.
• Additional teeth can be added to the partial depending on the type of material used when developing the same and other factors.
• Partial dentures are a better option than a complete denture to replace a lost tooth in the lower jaw especially if some teeth can be preserved. Most people experience difficulties adapting to removable complete lower dentures.

The Cons of Partial Dentures

The cons of partial dentures will not be explained to you unless you meet the Pleasant Hill dentist who will not hesitate to give you the full picture. He or she will provide you the following information:

• You need to get accustomed to having partial dentures in your mouth.
• Partial dentures can increase the buildup of plaque around the abutment teeth leading to tooth decay and gum disease.
• The abutment teeth may experience trauma along with the gums due to the pressure and movement of the partial.
• The loss of an abutment tooth may require a new partial.
• Partial dentures may not function as well as a fixed bridge or a dental implant.
• They must be removed at night.

Caring for Your Mouth with Partial Dentures

The dentist in Pleasant Hill, CA, will provide you instructions about how to care for your mouth and the partial dentures if you choose to have them. The partial dentures need to be removed from your mouth every night to provide relief to your teeth and tissues. Your gums require air and blood circulation to remain healthy. You will be advised to use a power toothbrush to remove plaque from your natural teeth effectively and also floss around your abutment teeth.

Caring for your partials by using a denture toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush or denture cleaning tablets will be suggested by partial dentures in Pleasant Hill. You will be advised not to place your partial your in mouth and bite down on it but to seat it using your fingers, to prevent damaged to the clasps.

You must also continue regular dental appointments for cleanings and exams to keep your mouth healthy and consider fluoride treatments with your dentist Martinez to prevent tooth decay and further tooth loss.