A removable partial denture is designed specifically to meet the patient’s needs and can replace one or more missing teeth. A natural appearance and speech clarity is restored, along with the ability to eat more efficiently.

PARTIAL DENTURE TYPES AND MATERIALS

Partial dentures are created from a metal and acrylic composition or completely out of acrylic. A patient’s specific needs and anatomy dictate the partial denture design. Every effort is made to construct a self-cleansing partial denture that preserves the remaining teeth and oral tissues.

Dr. Montoya will design your partial denture so that the chewing forces are evenly distributed over the entire surface area of the remaining teeth and soft tissues. Your dentist may recommend changes to your remaining teeth to help equalize these forces.

Metal partials are generally preferred as they are structurally superior. They are thinner and more hygienic than acrylic partial. Acrylic partials are typically used as transitional or temporary partial. Dr. Montoya will consult with you to determine the appropriate partial for your situation.

BENEFITS OF PARTIAL DENTURES

There are several benefits to removable partial dentures from Boulder Dental Designs. Many of our patients choose removable partial dentures because they are easy to use and are less invasive than other tooth replacement solutions. Depending on the material you and your dentist choose for the partial dentures, other teeth can be added to the dentures over time if needed. 

Another advantage is that a removable partial denture may help limit the movement of your existing natural teeth. Without anything pressing against them, your natural teeth may shift in your gums. This shifting can lead to more severe dental concerns and more complex solutions to restore the health and appearance of your teeth. Lastly, you can grind and digest food more efficiently with a complete set of teeth. When patients miss one or more teeth, eating the foods they love can be more challenging. 

SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR PARTIAL DENTURES

It is essential to follow a particular care routine with complete dentures and partial dentures. You should thoroughly clean the dentures every day. Patients should avoid using regular toothpaste to clean their dentures because it can be too harsh and cause scratches in the soft acrylic. Patients should have two toothbrushes if they have partial dentures. You should use one brush to clean their natural teeth twice a day, and the other brush should be on their dentures. Since most partial dentures contain some acrylic, the dentures should always be kept wet. When not wearing the dentures in your mouth, you should place the dentures in a glass of water. Keeping the dentures wet will protect them from cracking. 

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY DENTURES HURT MY GUMS? 

If you experience gum soreness, you should call Boulder Dental Designs for an appointment. Discomfort could be a sign that the dentures are not fitting correctly. It would help if you never tried to adjust or fix your dentures independently. If your gums are sore, you should remove your dentures to give your gums a break and rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. 

CAN I WHITEN MY TEETH IF I HAVE PARTIAL DENTURES?

Yes, you can whiten your natural teeth. However, you cannot whiten your partial dentures. Most partial dentures’ teeth are made of porcelain which is a durable and stain-resistant material. This will help protect your partial dentures from becoming discolored. 

Partial dentures are a great way to improve your smile’s appearance and overall health. There are several advantages to partial dentures, such as improved appearance, more comfortable eating, etc. For more information about partial dentures or to look into any of our other restorative dentistry options in Boulder, Colorado, or perhaps our family, cosmetic, or preventatve dentistry, contact our office today.