Partial Dentures

Why replace the missing teeth at all? As we grow and develop permanent teeth, the bones and muscles of our jaws, head, and neck grow to accommodate them. When teeth are lost, the resultant gap in the bite pattern can change how food is chewed and how we hold our mouths at rest. This can cause stress to the surrounding bones and muscles resulting in discomfort or stress in the jaw, head, and neck. Additionally, without a full dentition (set of teeth) we may not be able to chew food properly which can lead to changes in the diet that can further impact health and well being.

Cincinnati dentists may recommend replacement with a partial denture, created to fit around remaining healthy teeth. While they are removable, they are usually fitted around the natural teeth with a metal or plastic anchor that holds the partial denture in place.

Partial dentures are created from a mold of the existing teeth, gum and jawlines where they will sit. Once the dentures are prepared from the material chosen, the dentist will fit them into position so long as the area is free from swelling or tenderness.

Dentures are prepared from a variety of materials and the preferred material is chosen based on the desired outcome. Polymer dentures have a more natural appearance and are much more durable than the more conventional plastic dentures. These are the reasons so many people will opt to pay the higher cost for polymer dentures.

Looking after partial dentures is no different than full dentures, and should be combined with the regular oral hygiene regimen. Partial dentures should be taken out and brushed after each meal along with the original teeth. This is done to remove food particles from the denture that could possibly irritate the gums. For further protection and to maintain an overall healthy oral cavity, the denture must be removed at night.

Users of partial dentures will be required to pay periodic visits to their Cincinnati dental professional to keep tabs on the health of their gums and to have routine maintenance work done on their dentures.