Partial Dentures
All about Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are typically used by those to replace teeth that are missing most commonly due to a jaw-related accident, tooth decay, or malnutrition. Having gaps in the teeth can result in food and bacteria forming in the empty spaces. Partial dentures are useful for filling these in, thus preventing tooth and gum decay. In addition to this, partial dentures are useful for hiding prominent tooth gaps, such as the ones in the front of the mouth.
There are many different types of partial dentures to choose from, depending on your unique situation. If you only have a few missing teeth, a removable partial denture may be the best fit for you. These are dentures crafted to fit over your remaining teeth. The false teeth included are designed to go in the gaps between. These can be crafted as a bridge that goes across the roof of your mouth, or it can be fitted to attach to your back teeth to replace any teeth you would normally use for chewing.
Permanent partial dentures are those that are attached to the teeth through different means. In most cases, these include a metal or plastic clasp that fits snugly against your remaining teeth. In other cases, permanent partials are grafted to your jaw bone through surgery that involves attaching the denture to the bone beneath.
Care for partials varies depending on the type. For example, cleaning removable partials is usually a simple matter of soaking them overnight in a specialized cleaning solution or washing them gently with mild soap and water. When brushing, be sure to floss thoroughly and brush the gums the dentures usually cover, as this will prevent plaque and gum disease. As dentures are incredibly fragile, it may be a good idea to invest in a good dentures case as well. As for permanent partial dentures, all you need to do is brush and floss as always. Failure to do so may result in infection as well as tooth decay and gum problems.
By following these tips, you can keep your partials in excellent condition for years to come. At McCallum Denture Clinic, we will help you find the best match for your needs.