Removable partial dentures can be a great help to people who have lost some of their natural teeth. Some partial dentures are attached to the adjoining teeth by metal clasps. Others are fitted into adjoining teeth with precision attachments. We will help you select the type that is best for you.
IF YOU HAVE A REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURE, OR ARE ABOUT TO GET ONE, YOU’VE TAKEN A NECESSARY AND IMPORTANT STEP TOWARD MAINTAINING YOUR ORAL HEALTH.
Here’s why:
- Wearing a partial denture can help your remaining teeth stay in position. When there are spaces between natural teeth, the teeth may drift or tip, placing unnatural stress on the tissues of the mouth. Teeth that are tipped or out of position are often hard to clean and are therefore at greater risk of tooth decay and periodontal diseases, which can cause additional tooth loss.
- Chewing is easier and more comfortable if missing teeth are replaced. If teeth are missing, you may chew food on only one side of your mouth, placing too much stress on that side. This can eventually lead to further problems with the gums and other tissues of the mouth.
- Wearing a partial denture can also benefit your speech and appearance. You need your teeth to make many sounds properly. They also help maintain the natural shape of your face by supporting your lips and cheeks.
Adjusting Partial Dentures
Your partial denture was made to fit precisely, but your mouth is constantly changing. In time, your gums and the bone supporting your partial denture may shrink, causing it to become loose or rock. If your appliance becomes loose, contact our office as soon as possible. Only a dentist can determine how your mouth has changed and what should be done to refit your partial dentures.
Repairing Partial Dentures
If your partial denture breaks, cracks or chips, or if a denture tooth becomes loose, contact our office immediately. Do not try to mend it yourself. Using a do-it-yourself repair kit can damage the denture and make it impossible to repair. Over-the-counter glues often contain chemicals that can damage the plastic denture material and harm oral tissues. However, we can usually repair a broken denture, often on the same day.
It is especially important to contact us if your partial denture breaks while you are eating. This sometimes indicates that there has been a change in the fit of the dentures because the underlying tissue has changed. When we repair your denture, we will also examine your mouth and check whether your partial denture needs adjustment.
Regular Dental Visits
Even if your partial denture is undamaged and feels comfortable, you should see us at least once a year to protect your oral health. During these visits, you will receive a complete oral examination. We will check for signs of oral cancer and examine your gum ridges, tongue and the joints of your jaw. If you suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia) an artificial saliva may be prescribed. We will also look for signs of general diseases, including diabetes, that can show up in the mouth. When necessary, your natural teeth will be cleaned and your partial denture will be refitted.
Most people can wear a removable partial denture successfully-it just takes a bit of time to become adjusted. And with a little effort spent on regular oral hygiene, all remaining natural teeth can last a lifetime.
Cleaning The Dentures And Your Mouth
Your dentures can be cleaned easily with a denture brush and a mild toothpaste or mild hand soap. Use special care to clean any part of the partial that comes in contact with any natural teeth. Both the partial denture and the natural teeth must be kept very clean on a daily basis to reduce the chance of new dental decay starting. Use toothpaste containing fluoride. Denture soaks are also useful for the denture. Brush your gums twice a day with regular toothbrush to toughen and clean them. Leave the dentures out of your mouth at night. While they are out leave them soaking in water.
*This information was provided by the American Dental Association.
