What are partial dentures made of?

What are partial dentures made of?

Partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-coloured plastic base.

Is your smile currently missing teeth, or are you facing the possibility of a tooth extraction? Has your dentist recommended that you explore the option of partial dentures? Read on to learn more about partial dentures, including how they are made, who they are for, and the fitment process.

What are partial dentures?

Partial dentures, also known as ‘plates’, that functions as a replacement for missing teeth.

Partial dentures consist of replacement teeth attached to a flesh-coloured plastic base. This device is then attached to the area of the gum line where the tooth replacement is required.

Using metal clasps, partial dentures fasten to nearby existing teeth, thereby fulfilling two functions: firstly, filling in any gaps in the smile, and secondly, ensuring that your existing teeth do not shift out of position.

Although they often are discussed as alternatives to dental bridges and dental implants, the big difference (and distinct advantage) of dentures is that these devices are removable at any time.

Am I a good candidate for partial dentures?

Partial dentures are an ideal option for patients who still have some healthy teeth remaining and a strong jawbone structure in place.

They are an effective, immediate solution that can benefit patients in two keyways.

• Most importantly, partial dentures can help to restore normal tooth function. Missing teeth can lead to all kinds of oral health issues – from wearing down existing teeth to periodontal disease.
• Partial dentures are also popular for their cosmetic benefits. They can have a revitalising effect on ageing smiles, plus they can help to ‘fill out’ sunken areas to restore a more youthful facial appearance.

What are the different kinds of partial dentures?

There are three main kinds of partial dentures, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

• Acrylic partial dentures are the ‘go-to’ option for most patients. They are relatively inexpensive to produce, and major advancements in technology over recent years have made them increasingly hard-wearing. Nevertheless, acrylic dentures will probably have to be replaced every five to eight years and they are more prone to bacteria collection than other options.
• Porcelain partial dentures are a time-trusted, reliable option. Porcelain dentures offer more durability than acrylic dentures, and they are easier to clean (as they mimic the natural enamel surface of teeth). Porcelain partial dentures are quite heavy, however, making them a problematic option for patients suffering from jaw-related issues or facial bone loss.
• Finally, metal partial dentures are made from an alloy of cobalt and chromium. They are the most durable of all three options, and they are also lighter, which makes them more comfortable to wear and easier to align with your existing teeth. However, metal partial dentures are more expensive than their acrylic or porcelain counterparts.

What is the process of getting partial dentures?

The process of getting partial dentures is spread over several appointments.

Following a comprehensive oral examination — perhaps including X-rays to determine your suitability for partial dentures — an impression will be taken of your upper and lower teeth.

This moulding is then sent away to a specialised laboratory, where a customised set of partial dentures will be produced. Once they are ready, you will return for a fitting to ensure the partial denture fits comfortably in your mouth, and that there are no irregularities with your bite.

How can we help?

Partial dentures deliver amazing oral health benefits, as well as restoring the aesthetics of your smile. At The Smile Speciality Dental Group, our team will ensure the utmost comfort during your partial dentures treatment, while helping you achieve your dental goals. For more information, please consult our website.

The Smile Speciality Dental Group is a family-owned and operated practice. This unique ethos is fundamentally what we strive to achieve with in our team members and our patients. By getting to know you, as an integral part of your complete oral health, we believe we are better positioned in cultivating a way forward regarding your specific oral health care needs. To book an appointment to meet the team, please contact us here.

Our aim is to provide a uniquely comprehensive treatment plan encompassing general dental care, family dental services, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry and prosthetic denture care. To find out more about all we have on offer, please find more information here.