A partial denture to fully complete your smile
A partial denture (“partial”) may be in your future if you still have at least some healthy teeth. While it is a well-established, less invasive, and more economical alternative than other modern forms of tooth replacement, there are some important considerations associated with this type of denture.
How are these dentures designed?
The dentures planned and placed at Farhoumand Dentistry in Tyson’s Corner, Virginia, include white prosthetic teeth attached to a pink-colored base (designed to replicate the appearance of natural tissue). This appliance then attaches to the remaining teeth. Once attached, the prosthetic teeth fill in gaps, and the neighboring natural teeth help to keep the appliance in place.
How many teeth can be replaced with a partial?
True to its name, partials are appropriate for patients who need to replace teeth partially. These patients still have some remaining teeth. So, they are not ideal candidates for complete or full dentures (either a full upper or lower denture). While there is no set maximum amount of teeth that can be replaced with a partial, our dentists must confirm that any remaining teeth are indeed healthy. Otherwise, if those remaining teeth are compromised or failing, we will need to explore options such as conventional full dentures or even dentures retained by dental implants secured in the jawbone to function like tooth roots. Other factors to consider may include your oral hygiene, the locations of the missing teeth, and the density or health of the supportive bone in your jaw.
What can I expect from the partial dentures process?
In addition to an initial consultation or evaluation, we will need to take dental impressions that will serve as models of your teeth. These impressions then guide the fabrication of your denture. We also provide our lab with fine details about the size, shape, and shades of each replacement tooth in your partial. This supports a natural appearance. Once “mock-ups” are made, you can essentially test-drive how the appliance fits, looks, and feels in your mouth. During these fittings, adjustments or fine-tuning will be done to ensure your utmost comfort and satisfaction. Be honest. You will be wearing your partial for a long time, and we want the permanent one to be perfect. Once the final mock-up has been crafted, our skilled lab tech will fabricate your custom dentures. A final fitting session involves small refinements for optimal comfort and a balanced bite.
Are partials right for me?
Our patients at Farhoumand Dentistry appreciate that partials are generally not invasive and are comparatively affordable. However, there are trade-offs with every service and treatment. Here, we emphasize that partials-wearers need to maintain frequent visits to our office for denture services as well as consistent upkeep at home. To prevent further damage to any remaining teeth and other tissues, you must exercise good care. It’s essential to keep the natural tissues that the denture rests upon clean and practice cleaning techniques for the denture itself, as instructed by our team in Tyson’s Corner, Virginia.
We look forward to exploring these considerations with you! Call (703) 636-2442 to reach our office today.
