Partial Dentures - COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
Missing a Few Teeth?
Partial Dentures - COLORADO SPRINGS, CO
Missing a Few Teeth?
Partials Offer Full Results
When people think “dentures,” they usually think about full or complete dentures. Although these are ideal for many patients, they aren’t the only option. Partial dentures are great for those who are missing only a few teeth, and help make it easier to chew food, speak better, and can also support cheeks and lips to help avoid facial sagging.
In general, it’s a good idea to preserve the original teeth for as long as possible. Partials are used when a few consecutive teeth need restoration. If most of your teeth are free from decay and structural damage, this option can help you minimize tooth extractions.
How Partial Dentures Work
So exactly what is a partial denture?
Removable partial dentures are similar to denture bridges in that they are sets of consecutive artificial teeth; however, a partial denture is removable, and a bridge is not removable, it is cemented in place permanently. A partial denture is situated in the mouth on special plastic or metal bases that match the color of your gums. Partial dentures often have some sort of clasp that attaches to your healthy teeth and holds the denture in place. Your dentist may recommend that these healthy teeth get crowns installed to enhance their strength and the way that the denture fits in your mouth. Your dentist will work with you to find which kind of removable partial denture is right for you.
Eating With Partial Dentures
No matter whether your dentures are permanent or removable, they may help improve the way you eat. Often for patients who need removable dentures, eating has been a problem due to lack of teeth or even very loose teeth. Removable dentures can aid in giving you more teeth to chew with. However, there is definitely a learning curve to this eating thing with dentures. A benefit of a partial denture is that they are less prone to slippage and other inconveniences in the ways that removable full dentures can be.
However, it is important to take precautions when eating again once your dentures are in place. Generally, it is recommended to begin by eating soft foods, cutting food into pieces, chewing on both sides of the mouth to keep the pressure even, and avoiding gum along with sticky and hard foods.
Caring For Your Partial Dentures
With removable partial dentures, you can take them out whenever you wish to clean them. Here are some best practices when it comes to caring for your removable partial dentures:
Take out and clean your partial dentures every day to rinse off food particles with a soft toothbrush and denture cleaner or some liquid dish soap.
Do not use abrasive toothpaste to clean your dentures because some kinds of toothpaste have abrasive particles that can damage the denture base and teeth. If you are going to use a toothpaste, use a low abrasive one like Sensodyne.
Be sure to brush the surface of your dentures gently and over a towel or sink with cool water because your denture is very delicate.
When you are not wearing your removable partial dentures you may keep them in water or a cleaning solution. Nowadays most removable dentures can also be stored dry. Ask your dentist for the best care instructions.
Always rinse your dentures with water after using any kind of denture cleanser, as it may contain chemicals that should not go in your mouth.
Be sure to take extra care when you clean teeth that fit under the denture’s metal clasps. Your dentist or dental hygienist can walk you through any of the above tips and other questions you may have about your removable partial dentures.
Partial Dentures Adjustments and Repairs
You should see a dentist regularly to check up on the status of your teeth, gums, and dentures. As original teeth are lost or removed, natural changes in the shape of surrounding gum and bone tissue should be monitored using X-rays so your dentures always provide the best possible fit.
As you age, the fit of your removable partial denture can change. For instance, your jawbone can shrink, creating a space under the denture where food can get trapped, or the denture clasps may get loose over time. If you notice any sense of looseness with your partials, contact your dentist; do not attempt to adjust it yourself.
It’s crucial to see your dentist as soon as possible if your removable partial denture breaks, cracks, chips, or becomes loose. You should also set an appointment if you’ve lost any of your natural supporting teeth or had any accident or injury that affects your mouth or jaw. Minor adjustments can sometimes be done in a single short visit, but might occasionally take a few days.
It’s unusual for a partial denture to need replacement, but it can happen over time. If this is required, a new impression of your mouth will be taken and a new set will be fabricated at a dental lab.
For quality dental care in a comfortable, compassionate environment, request an appointment with My Dental Company. As a trusted Colorado Springs dentist, we’ll help you make the right dental health choices for you.
See if Partials Are Right for You
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Location
Phone Number:
(719) 527-2626
Address:
817 Village Center Drive, Ste 100
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Office Hours
Monday | 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Tuesday | 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wednesday | 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Thursday | 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Friday | 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday | 7:00 am - 2:30 pm