The Whole Truth About Partial Dentures
When you’re missing one or more teeth, it’s very common for your mouth to experience shifting and adjusting in an attempt to compensate for the hole in your bite. This shifting of your mouth can sometimes lead to changes in your physical appearance and problems with other teeth.
Enter the partial denture, a structural piece that actively engages your mouth to prevent bones and tissue from moving and shifting–an important factor in maintaining a beautiful smile.
There are two kinds of partial dentures that are prescribed based on the health of patients’ mouth and teeth, fixed and removable, but both exceed full dentures and other tooth-replacement methods in popularity for the following reasons:
- Maintains face shape
- Decreases risk of periodontal disease
- Prevents teeth movement
- Alleviates jaw stress
- Makes it easier to chew and speak
Patients love partials because they’re less invasive than other tooth replacement options and also tend to be less expensive. It’s the best of both worlds!
So if you’re a patient who’s curious about what a life with a partial denture looks like, read on! Today, we’re covering some of the most asked about topics when it comes to these awesome appliances.
What’s In a Partial?
A partial denture is an appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Made of metal and acrylic, partials look more natural than full dentures, and like real teeth, have the strength to withstand the stresses of chewing and speaking.
How Much Does One Cost?
Every mouth is different, so the designs and prices of partial dentures tend to vary. But, these appliances are often very cost-effective.
Some insurance companies will also cover a partial denture in-part or in whole, so be sure to review your insurance plan.
What Can I Eat?
After receiving your new partial denture, you may want to ease into eating by consuming soft foods first and avoiding hard or sticky treats.
Partial dentures are designed to function just like teeth, so like with teeth, you will be able to eat most of your favorite foods.
Sleeping In a Removeable Partial Denture
It’s best to avoid sleeping in your removable partial denture for a few reasons. This allows your gums to recover overnight and prevents any damage to the denture caused by clenching and grinding.
Nighttime is also a perfect time to clean your partial denture outside of your mouth, as they were designed to be cleaned.
Come See Us
At Lake Cities, we love healthy dental options that are great for our patients’ mouths and wallets. If you are missing one or more teeth and are interested in being fit for your own partial denture, give us a call or schedule an appointment today. No insurance? No problem! Join other patients who are making low monthly payments through our Patient Loyalty Program. We look forward to seeing your smile!