Partial Dentures

Replacing Missing Teeth While Keeping the Healthy Teeth You Have

If you are missing several teeth but still have healthy natural teeth remaining, a partial denture may help you restore the spaces in your smile without replacing an entire arch. A partial denture is custom-made to work with your existing teeth, replacing the teeth you have lost while helping you bite, chew, speak, and smile more comfortably.

At Foley Family Dentistry, we design your treatment around your individual mouth. We will evaluate your remaining teeth and gums, listen to your concerns, and talk with you about whether a partial denture or another tooth replacement option is the right choice for you.

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What Is a Partial Denture?

A partial denture is a removable restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Unlike a complete denture, which replaces all of the teeth in an upper or lower arch, a partial is designed to fit around the natural teeth that remain.

Artificial teeth are attached to a base designed to complement the appearance of your gums. Depending on the type of partial denture, clasps or other components may help secure the restoration using your remaining teeth for support.

Because every pattern of tooth loss is different, partial dentures are individually designed for the person wearing them.

What Are the Benefits of a Partial Denture?

Replacing missing teeth can do more than fill empty spaces in your smile. Depending on your situation, a partial denture may:

  • Make it easier to bite and chew a wider variety of foods
  • Restore visible gaps in your smile
  • Help support clearer, more natural speech when missing teeth have affected pronunciation
  • Help keep neighboring natural teeth from shifting into open spaces
  • Provide a removable option for replacing several missing teeth

Your experience will depend on factors such as which teeth are missing, the health of your remaining teeth, and the design and fit of your restoration.

What Are Partial Dentures Made From?

Partial dentures can be made using different materials and designs. Some use a metal framework combined with acrylic and artificial teeth, while others may be made primarily from acrylic or other dental materials.

There is not one design that is right for every patient. The location and number of missing teeth, condition of your remaining teeth, bite, anatomy, appearance, and other factors can all influence which type of partial denture is most appropriate.

We will explain the options available for your particular smile and why we recommend a specific design.

Are You a Candidate for a Partial Denture?

A partial denture relies on the rest of your mouth for support, so the health of your remaining teeth and gums matters.

Before treatment, we will evaluate your teeth for decay, existing restorations, mobility, and other concerns. We will also examine your gums and the tissues that will support the denture. Any necessary dental or periodontal treatment may need to be completed before your final partial denture is made.

In some cases, certain natural teeth may need to be modified or restored so they can better support the partial denture. If this applies to you, we will explain what is necessary before moving forward.

What Is the Process for Getting a Partial Denture?

Creating a partial denture typically requires several steps. We begin with an examination and treatment planning so we understand the condition of your mouth and how the replacement teeth need to function within your bite.

We then gather the detailed information needed to create your restoration. Depending on the type of partial denture, you may have appointments to evaluate the fit, bite, and appearance before the final restoration is completed.

When your partial denture is ready, we will make adjustments as needed and show you how to insert, remove, and care for it properly.

Getting Used to Your New Partial Denture

A new partial denture can feel unfamiliar at first. You may initially notice changes when eating or speaking, and inserting and removing the denture can take a little practice.

Give yourself time to adjust. Starting with foods that are easier to chew and gradually returning to your usual diet can help you become more comfortable using your new restoration.

If you develop a sore spot or the partial feels uncomfortable, loose, or difficult to use, let us know. Do not try to bend clasps, reshape the denture, or make other adjustments yourself. We can identify the source of the problem and make appropriate modifications.

How Do You Care for a Partial Denture?

Both your partial denture and your remaining natural teeth need consistent daily care. Plaque and food can accumulate around the restoration, particularly where it contacts your teeth and gums.

Remove and clean your partial denture according to the instructions we provide. You should also brush your natural teeth and clean between them thoroughly every day.

Because the health of your remaining teeth is important to the long-term success of your partial denture, regular dental checkups and professional cleanings remain essential.

Will Your Partial Denture Always Fit the Same Way?

Your mouth can change over time. Changes in your gums, supporting bone, or remaining natural teeth may eventually affect the way your partial denture fits.

Regular dental visits allow us to monitor the fit and condition of your restoration as well as the health of the teeth supporting it. If your partial becomes loose, uncomfortable, damaged, or noticeably different, bring it with you so we can evaluate it.

Adjustments, repairs, relining, or replacement may eventually be necessary to maintain an appropriate fit.

Is a Partial Denture Your Only Option?

Not necessarily. Depending on which teeth are missing and the health of your mouth, other options such as a dental bridge or dental implants may also be worth considering.

Each approach has different advantages and considerations. We will help you understand your choices and recommend options based on your oral health, the number and location of your missing teeth, and what you want from your treatment.

Complete Your Smile With Care Designed for You

Missing several teeth does not mean you need to replace the healthy teeth you still have. A well-designed partial denture can work with your remaining teeth to restore missing areas and help you feel more comfortable using and showing your smile.

Call for more information or to schedule an appointment with Foley Family Dentistry in Foley, AL.

Call (251) 257-7009