Learn About the Different Types of Partial Dentures

Kingsport, TN

Thirty-two. That is the number of permanent teeth the average adult has in their mouth. Your teeth are made to last a lifetime but, in many cases, do not. Data from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention shows that by the time an American adult turns 34 years old, they already have lost five of their permanent teeth, on average. Replacing missing teeth is crucial to restoring your smile, improving your nutrition and avoiding other significant oral health consequences. If a patient has lost multiple teeth on the same dental arch, then a partial denture could be the best treatment choice. Designed to rest on the gums while secured in place between the other natural teeth on the arch, as long as there are enough healthy teeth on that arch to provide support. Today on the blog, we take a look at some of the different types of partial dentures that are available.

Acrylic: A partial denture of this type has the replacement teeth set in a base plate that is made of an acrylic resin. This partial is designed to sit on the dental ridge in the mouth but also may incorporate wire components to grip the adjacent natural teeth and provide greater stability. The acrylic resin used to make the base does not absorb stains or odors and can be repaired easily. It is also malleable, allowing the addition of more replacement teeth in the future if necessary. A partial of this type can last as long as five years with the proper regimen of care. Acrylic partials are considered the most economical option available.

Cast metal: This is a partial denture with a framework made of cast metal, designed to rest between the gaps of the teeth and affix to healthy teeth with metal clasps. The framework is connected to an acrylic base, where the replacement teeth reside. These metal clasps provide restored function for the replacement teeth and high retention. A cast metal partial is more lightweight, less bulky and smaller in size, meaning that patients can adjust more easily to a partial denture of this kind because it does not take up as much room on the roof of the mouth. It is also the most durable type of partial denture, assuming the patient follows proper maintenance. However, because the fabrication process of a cast metal partial is more involved, a partial of this type is more expensive than acrylic, although still considered to be affordable.

Flexible: This type of partial denture is made from softer and more malleable materials, allowing an unmatched level of flexibility. These partials usually are made with thermoplastic resin and a base material with a nylon-like flexibility and feel. Comfort is one of the greatest benefits of this type of denture; a patient can wear the denture, chew and eat with greater ease. There are more customization options as well, as the thermoplastic can be molded and shaped with relative ease. Despite its thin and lightweight nature, a flexible denture is quite strong and less likely to break if dropped. Perhaps best of all, a partial denture has a similar appearance to natural tissue, making it more discreet. However, this is also one of the more expensive options in a partial denture due to the time involved in the fabrication process.

Digital Dentures in Kingsport, Tennessee

Premier Dental Arts is the only provider of Digital Dentures in the region surrounding Kingsport, Tennessee. These dentures have a chemical bond between the replacement teeth and the acrylic base plate, making for a stronger prosthetic and a significantly diminished likelihood of the teeth becoming loose. To find out more about Digital Dentures or any of the products we offer at Premier Dental Arts, just call (888) 732-5221.