What Are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are removable dentures that replace missing or unhealthy teeth. We now offer tooth-colored clasps on partials which are much more esthetic especially for the upper teeth, an obvious smile zone.
Partials include treatment partials which are made of plastic and are often used as a temporary measure for tooth replacement. They are less expensive and not quite as strong or stable as regular partial dentures. They are useful when one or several teeth are lost and better treatment has to be postponed due to healing, cost, or time available.
Different Types of Partial Dentures and How They Work
Partials get stability in several ways. The aforementioned treatment partial rests on the gums and gets more stability from the tongue side of the teeth, and if used, wire clasps that go around surrounding teeth for stability and retention.
Traditional partial dentures are secured using occlusal rests cut into several teeth and a cast metal framework. This provides extra stability and retention. The framework is tried on for fit and retention and then the teeth are added.
We can also make a hybrid partial denture that combines tooth-colored clasps matched to the patient’s tooth color attached to the cast metal framework.
Also, at times, flexible partials may be a good option for patients. Flexible partials use gum-colored clasping. No wire-like clasps are used. While this type of partial is more difficult to adjust and repair, it does look but is esthetic. These are not used as often as other partial denture designs, but they have certain appropriate applications.
We also construct precision attachment partials without clasps. For this option, crowns are made that include precision attachments. The partial has a precision attachment that then fits to the crowns precision attachments.
Dental Implants and Partial Dentures
We are now make quite a few partials in which we use teeth for some of the retention and implant attachments for others. If a patient loses all the teeth on one side but has teeth present on the other side, the implant or implants work well for anchorage on the opposite side of the arch.
Contact Us Today to Find the Right Options for You
Each patient is different. Contact our office today by calling (803) 438-1347 or by filling out a contact form here on our website to set up an appointment.