Your teeth are a valuable gift of nature. You can lose one or several when your teeth get extracted, because of an accident, disease, or poor health. Losing a tooth and having that gap in your mouth can be unpleasant and could be one of the most embarrassing situations of your life.
Fortunately, we provide a variety of Restorative dentistry treatments to address this issue, including dentures and bridges when one or more natural teeth are missing. These can be complete or partial sets and are also called traditions. The sort of dental treatment you require is determined by the number of teeth missing. Removable partials can help to restore your ability to chew foods and smile confidently. Additionally, these assist in preserving the facial features of your smile, reducing risk, and relieving jaw stress.
Partials are often used when patients have lost one or few teeth in succession. This treatment can be achieved in many ways. A similar number of false teeth is secured to the metal frame that fills the gap.
Contents: Partials vs. Traditional | Types of dentures | How much? | Appointment | FAQ
Partials vs. Traditional Full sets
Still not sure what treatment is best for you? Both serve different needs and have their pros and cons. Here are the major differences.
- Function – Complete sets are required when the patient has lost most of the teeth in the jaw. Partials can only replace two to three consecutive teeth in a jaw.
- Extraction – Partials are more beneficial in keeping the patient’s natural teeth as only the missing teeth are replaced. Full sets will need to extract any remaining teeth.
- Permanent or Removable – These can either be fixed or removable. A fixed or permanent replacement set is called a bridge. Dental bridges can be supported with implants are implant-supported bridges. Traditional can be removed.
- Price – The cost of a partial set is cheaper than a complete set as there is more material needed and the cost of extraction.
- Stability – The stability and retention of partials are greater compared to the traditional counterpart since it gets support from the adjacent natural teeth as well as the soft tissues and jawbone. On the other hand, traditional dentures primarily rely on soft tissues and jaw bone for retention.
Partial dentures types and material
There are numerous varieties of partials available, each made from a different material. The type of partial dentures for you is something not only you, but also your doctor will decide based on what is most comfortable, most aesthetically pleasing, and most affordable. Below are some of these solutions:
- Cast Metal Removable – This is the most common type of partial. What is great about it is that these have good strength and durability. These are attached to support the teeth with metal wire clasps but there are other aesthetically pleasing options available. They can last for years with proper care and maintenance.
- Acrylic Removable – Also called flippers. It is one of the least expensive options available but has inferior quality because of its acrylic base. Acrylic needs to be thick to be strong; thus its bulkiness is often noticeable. It is secured to the teeth with metal clasps that can be visible when you talk or smile. Flippers are mostly a temporary solution while waiting for a permanent solution to be made. However, some people can make these fillers last for years.
- Flexible – These are perfect for those who feel uncomfortable when wearing rigid or cast metal bases. The clasps are made of thin gum-colored wires that go into spaces of the natural teeth. It is extremely comfortable, looks more natural, and may be worn for an extended period of time.
- Fixed Bridge – Fixed bridges are a wonderful option for someone who requires one or two teeth replaced. It is made of artificial teeth with a crown on either side for support. The tooth must be trimmed so that the crowns fit perfectly. As the name suggests, it is a permanent fixture and it can be brushed or flossed just like your natural teeth. A disadvantage of fixed bridges is that they can increase the chance of getting sensitive teeth. Maryland bridges have the same function as a fixed bridge, but it does not look as natural as a fixed bridge. Bridges are often performed on the front side; however, if the procedure is performed on the rear or molar, a cantilever bridge may be used.
- Implant-Supported Fixed Bridge – An implant-supported bridge does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. The implant will be secured in the patient’s jaw and it acts like a natural tooth to the jaw. Implants can either be one or up to four implants. If there are four implants screwed into the jawbone, a full mouth or full arch restoration can be made. An additional number of implants may be needed on the lower than the upper jaw. The implant-supported bridge is permanent and doesn’t have dietary restrictions compared to conventional dentures. This is one of the reasons implant-supported bridges are more popular despite the cost.
Summit Smiles suggests implant-supported removable or fixed dentures because they are not only durable but also extremely comfortable, to the point that you will forget you are wearing dentures. If you’re still not sure, we’ll help you decide what is the most suitable treatment for you.
How much do Partial Dentures cost?
Partial dentures cost between $400 to $1,800 per arch, depending on the number of teeth, the type of material used, and the position of the teeth – top/upper or bottom/bottom. These can be reasonably priced, as dental insurance may cover the cost of partial dentures.
La Habra, Partial Dentures
Are you looking for a way to replace your lost teeth with comfortable partials? We would love to provide you with a perfect smile and a positive Complete dentures procedure experience. We are glad to offer high quality and comfortable dentures to our neighbors in the California community.
Partial Dentures FAQ
What are the best partial dentures to get?
There are multiple kinds of partial dentures available at Summit Smiles. This can be utilized in the absence of teeth. The majority of patients think that flexible partial dentures are the superior treatment option since they are more flexible, lightweight, and thin than acrylic dentures.
Do partial dentures look natural?
Removable partial dentures are replacement teeth with a gum-colored foundation that are fastened to healthy teeth using either a metal framework or a more natural-looking connector. Higher quality materials look more natural than low quality ones.
Find out How much do partial dentures cost?
What is better, a bridge or a partial?
Bridge and partial are excellent replacement solutions, but each has its own pros and cons. For example, while bridges are permanently attached to the adjacent teeth, vehicle partials are removable and are therefore more appropriate when there are insufficient natural teeth to support a bridge.
Do partials damage teeth?
A removable partial denture has a high chance of plaque buildup on the adjacent teeth which can lead to cavities and gum disease if not properly cared for. Additionally, the pressure and frequent movement might cause stress to the abutment teeth. Proper care and maintenance are what is needed to prevent damage to the teeth.
Can you eat with partials?
Yes. It is safe to eat with partial dentures, though adjustment may take some time. Expect to experience some learning curve when eating so be patient as to when you are used to having partials in your mouth, you’ll forget that it's there when eating. When you have partial front teeth, avoid chewing hard foods such as apples; instead, chop them into small bite-sized chunks and eat and chew them using your back teeth. Consume no harsh foods, such as rough meats, popcorn, or hard candy, as they may cause harm to the prosthetic.
Are partial dentures worth it?
Any treatment to replace a missing tooth is worth your time and money as it can prevent oral health problems such as bone resorption that occurs around an empty socket. It also allows the patient to eat and speak normally. However, they may not function as well over the long run as a fixed option such as an implant or bridge, depending on the patient’s needs.
How much does a partial denture cost for 2 teeth?
A partial denture for two teeth usually costs around $600 to $800. The cost will depend on the materials used and the location of the partial.
How much does a 3 tooth partial cost?
A partial denture is around $700 to $900 for three to four teeth. This usually depends on the materials used, and the location of the partial.
How much is a flexible partial denture?
Flexible partials are more comfortable to wear than acrylic dentures. Costs vary between $800 and $3000. This differs according to the type of material utilized and the position of the missing teeth.
Partial Dentures Near Me
Your dentist’s location can help you save considerable amounts of time and money. Prepare to have a few treatments or follow-up sessions in addition to your usual treatment; having a dental office nearby makes dental appointments more practical. Seek for a dentist who has a positive reputation for partial dentures and with whom you feel comfortable working.
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