Full Dentures are not for all. They are for those who have no remaining healthy teeth.
If you have lost more than two teeth but have most
of your natural teeth intact to the jaws, you should opt for partial dentures.
It’s because you will not be an ideal candidate for full dentures. In other words,
your oral condition will not justify a full denture set.
But do you know which partial denture to choose?
With different types of partial dentures available in the market, choosing the right option is often confusing. You should take recommendations from your dentist, but the decision should be all yours. It should depend on your requirements and overall oral condition.
To help you make a wise decision, we will discuss
the 5 different types of the partial denture in this post.
Removable cast metal dentures
With a durable cast-metal framework and
high-quality artificial teeth, the removable cast metal dentures are among the
popular types of partial dentures. The framework is very rigid and can last for
many years with proper care. These partial dentures are attached to the
patient’s existing teeth with metal clasps. But dentists and patients often
prefer precision attachments for aesthetic reasons.
Removable acrylic partial dentures or flippers
Usually used as a temporary solution by the
patients, the removable acrylic partial dentures or flippers are considered
less optimal than a cast metal partial. While a more permanent restoration is
created, patients use flippers. The primary reason for less usage is a pink
acrylic base that is thick and bulky. Other than this, the metal clasp used for
attaching dentures to the natural teeth is visible while talking and chewing.
The only positive thing about removable acrylic partial dentures is the
cost.
Flexible partial dentures
For those who are allergic to acrylic, flexible
partial dentures are a better solution. Also, as compared to other
partial dentures, flexible partial dentures are more comfortable and highly
realistic in appearance. Made up of thin and flexible plastic, these dentures
are attached to the natural teeth using a thin and gum-colored clasp. The best
part of flexible partial dentures is that they can be used as a temporary as
well as a permanent solution due to their durability. Cost is the only
disadvantage of flexible partial dentures because it’s more than acrylic
dentures.
Fixed bridge
If you are looking for dentures for one or two
missing teeth with healthy teeth at either end, you should choose a fixed
bridge. As the name suggests, a fixed bridge is not removable and remains in the
mouth at all times. You will just like your existing teeth. In this, the fixed
bridge is comprised of a crown at each end with replacement teeth in between.
The healthy or abutment teeth are trimmed and prepared to accept the crowns and
avoid any decay in the future.
Implant-supported fixed bridges
This is an advanced version of a fixed bridge. If
you have lost too many teeth for bridges, you should choose implant-supported
fixed bridges. In this, the existing healthy tooth structure will not get trimmed
for crowns and damaged due to additional pressure. Instead of naturally healthy
teeth, dental implants used as tooth root replacement support the bridge.
Sometimes, these implant-supported fixed bridges replace a full arch of
teeth.
There is no single best option in partial dentures. So you should discuss with your dentist to choose the right option based on your budget, goals, and dental needs.
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