Dentures or false teeth have been around longer than dental implants, offering people with missing teeth a convenient and easy solution. But as dentistry has evolved, bringing more advanced teeth replacement options with higher quality materials, so have dentures. They no longer look and feel like false teeth but are fabricated to a precise fit with quality materials for added comfort and durability. Since dental implants or bridges may not be suitable for everyone, dentures are a highly flexible option for people with multiple missing teeth.
What are full and partial metal dentures, how do they work, and what materials are they made from? We’re here to answer all your denture related questions, providing information on partial dentures and their pros and cons. Let’s dive in.
What are Partial Dentures?
Partial dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. They are customised to fit your mouth and can be made to replace several missing teeth. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain in the mouth.
Patients missing all their teeth will require a complete denture, which replaces a full arch of teeth. Whereas partial dentures require existing teeth to clip onto for support. They are an excellent option for people who:
- Have lost several teeth because of age, extensive damage or dental trauma
- Are not suitable candidates for dental implants
- Do not prefer to have invasive and extensive oral surgeries
- Don’t have the budget to cover expensive treatments
- Need a quick and convenient option to replace missing teeth
There are two main types of partial dentures, acrylic and metal. The ones you choose depend on your dental requirements, oral health, preferences, and budget. Contact our friendly dentists at Wentworth Points or Ropes Crossing for a consultation to determine the ideal treatment option for you.
Acrylic Partial Dentures
Acrylic partial dentures are made from acrylic resin or plastic, a strong and durable material that closely resembles the natural colour of the gums. They consist of an acrylic base and replacement teeth and are attached with clear or metal clasps. The clasps help anchor the denture to the remaining natural teeth, providing stability and retention.
Pros of Acrylic Partial Dentures
- Affordable – acrylic partial dentures are less expensive compared to metal ones.
- Adjustable – acrylic dentures can be easily adjusted and relined because of the flexible material.
- Quicker Process – Compared to metal dentures, acrylic partial dentures are relatively quicker to create. They are also a great temporary solution if you’re considering implants or waiting for your metal dentures.
Cons of Acrylic Partial Dentures
- Bulkier – The acrylic base must be thicker to support the dentures and make them stronger.
- Potential Discomfort – The thick base makes it more difficult to chew and speak, making the initial adjustment time more difficult.
Frequent Replacement – partial acrylic dentures have to be replaced every five years because of the material. They wear down much faster than metal dentures and are also more prone to breakage.
Partial Metal Dentures
Metal partial dentures are removable and have a metal framework that supports the replacement teeth and attaches to the remaining natural teeth for stability. The customised metal framework is typically made from cobalt-chromium alloy or titanium for enhanced support.
Pros of partial metal dentures
- Framework – The custom-designed framework is fabricated to fit precisely along the contours of the patient’s mouth.
- Stability and Retention – The metal framework has clasps or other attachments that grip onto the adjacent natural teeth. This helps prevent the denture from shifting or coming loose during chewing or speaking.
- Slim Design – Metal partial dentures can be made with a thinner and more streamlined design compared to acrylic partial dentures. This slim profile makes them more comfortable to wear and less bulky in the mouth.
- Durability – Metal partial dentures are highly durable and resistant to fracture as metal can withstand biting and chewing force, resulting in a longer lifespan compared to other denture materials.
- Increased Comfort – Metal partial dentures are more comfortable because they are thinner and smaller than their acrylic counterparts.
Cons of partial metal dentures
- Aesthetics – The metal framework may be visible depending on its location.
- Longer Process – metal dentures take longer to fabricate compared to acrylic dentures.
- Cost – Metal partial dentures tend to be more expensive than acrylic partial dentures due to the higher cost of the materials and the additional expertise required for fabrication.
Tips for Choosing the Right Partial Denture
The first step when getting dentures is a consultation with your dentist. They can assess the existing teeth placement and your oral health to provide personalised recommendations. Discussing your options with the dentist can help provide clarity to make an informed decision.
Some of the factors to consider when choosing the right partial denture include:
Retention and Stability
Assess the retention and stability features of different partial denture designs. Clasps, precision attachments, or other retention mechanisms may be used to hold the denture in place. Your dentist will help you understand which design can provide the best stability and comfort with minimal denture movement or slippage.
Material Options
There are different materials used for partial dentures, such as acrylic, metal, or a combination of both. Discuss the pros and cons of each material with your dentist to determine which one is best for you in terms of comfort, aesthetics, durability, and cost.
Aesthetics and Natural Appearance
The denture should blend well with your natural teeth and gums, creating a seamless and natural-looking smile. Consider the shade, shape, and size of dentures to ensure a harmonious and pleasing appearance.
Comfort and Fit
Proper fit and comfort ensure your dentures feel natural and don’t hinder your daily activities. Test the denture for comfort, stability, and speech before finalising your choice.
Maintenance and Longevity
Maintenance of any dental restoration is vital to ensure they last their lifespan. Inquire about the maintenance requirements of the different partial denture options to understand the aftercare involved. Also, consider potential repairs or adjustments that may be needed over time to minimise costs and hassle.
Budget and Insurance Coverage
Discuss the cost of the partial denture options and explore insurance coverage or payment plans available. Balance your budget with the quality and features of the denture to make an informed decision.
Regain Your Smile with Partial Dentures
At Boon Dental, we understand that each patient’s dental needs are unique. What may suit one may not apply to another. This is why we take a bespoke approach to dental treatments, listening and understanding your concerns for results that make you happy. With a range of treatment options for missing teeth, from dentures and dental crowns to dental implants, we can help you choose the procedure that closely aligns with your oral and aesthetic requirements for improved life quality. Book a consultation for more information on partial dentures today.
